Dubai Shopping Festival begins
The 30th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) kicks off on Friday, December 6, transforming Dubai into a hub of excitement, wonder, and endless adventure for 38 days.
Organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), this milestone edition promises unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors, running through January 12.
From mesmerizing drone shows and nightly fireworks to performances by global artists, DSF brings a unique festive atmosphere to the city. Families can enjoy carnival-style entertainment, hands-on workshops, and free concerts at popular spots like City Walk and Dubai Festival City Mall. Shoppers also have the chance to win big through numerous raffles, with opportunities to become millionaires through citywide promotions.
This year’s DSF features the longest-running drone show in the festival’s history, with 1,000 drones performing twice daily at Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR. Dubai Lights, a citywide art installation showcase by international artists, will turn key locations into brilliant hubs of creativity.
With exciting events like the 321 Festival opening weekend concerts, Winter City at Expo City Dubai, and the return of the Dubai Racing Carnival, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into concerts, shopping deals, or family activities, DSF 2024-2025 promises a season of magic and fun. Here’s a guide to the key events:
Family Carnival
- When: December 6 and 8
- Where: City Walk
- What to Expect: Carnival-themed activities, interactive workshops, and live roaming entertainment from 12pm until late evening.
321 Festival – Opening Weekend Concerts
- When: December 6 and 8
- Where: Coca-Cola Arena
- What to Expect: Georges Wassouf and Kadim Al Sahir on December 6, and Coke Studio Live on December 8.
Daily Fireworks
- When: December 6 – January 12
- Where: Dubai Festival City Mall (9:15pm daily) and Hatta (8pm, weekends)
- What to Expect: Spectacular fireworks displays by Al Zarooni Group.
Drone Shows
- When: December 6 – January 12 (8pm and 10pm)
- Where: Blue waters Island and The Beach, JBR
- What to Expect: Stunning visuals celebrating Dubai’s past, present, and future.
Dubai Lights
- When: December 6 – January 12
- Where: Iconic locations like Kite Beach, Al Seef, and City Walk
- What to Expect: Immersive light art installations.
DSF Nights
- When: Throughout DSF
- Where: Dubai Festival City Mall
- What to Expect: Free Saturday night concerts, retail pop-ups, and the IMAGINE show with fireworks. Shoppers can witness DSF’s live raffle draws and have the chance to win one Million Blue Rewards (equivalent to Dh10,000) with the DSF Modesh & Blue Rewards Millionaire raffle.
X Factor Live Show
- When: Throughout DSF
- Where: Dubai Festival City Mall
- What to Expect: The famous X Factor live show, featuring electrifying talent and memorable performances every Sunday from 10:30pm to 1am as part of DSF Nights.
Winter City
- When: December 6 – January 12
- Where: Expo City Dubai
- What to Expect: Festive workshops, crafts, and holiday activities with entry fees of Dh40 to Dh50.
Dubai Racing Carnival
- When: Starting December 6
- Where: Meydan Racecourse
- What to Expect: Thrilling horse races, live entertainment, and gourmet dining.
Raffles and Promotions
- When: Throughout DSF
- Where: Citywide
- What to Expect: Daily raffles, millionaire prizes, and exclusive offers at malls and retailers.
