The countdown to one of the world’s largest shopping festivals has officially begun! The 25th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) will kick off on 26 December and we’ve got a diverse DSF calendar of events that will help you plan you shopping better. From discounts to concerts, promotions and raffles, the 25th edition of DSF promises to be fun-filled and exciting. Here’s all that’s in store!
Opening Ceremony
Dubai Shopping Festival will kick off its 25th edition in its own inimitable style, with a spectacular opening ceremony at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai. The star-studded event will feature a series of concerts by Emirati and international singers, cultural and family-oriented performances from 2:00 pm to 11:00 pm on 26 and 27 December. Additionally, a ‘lights on’ event will countdown to when the city’s lights are officially turned on with fireworks adding colour and sparkle to Dubai’s famous skyline.
Events And Experiences
Headline Concerts
Global superstars from around the world will take stage throughout DSF to appeal to every taste and musical preference. The Coca-Cola Arena in City Walk will host Pakistani sensation Rahat Ali Khan on 27 December, while British pop star Ellie Goulding will take to the Arena’s stage on 10 January. At the outdoor Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, Egyptian superstar Amr Diab will perform his chart-topping hits including Nour El Ain and Ana 3ayesh on 24 January, in what is anticipated to be another sell out gig.
An Evening with Rio Ferdinand
Manchester United and England football legend, Rio Ferdinand will present a live, unscripted interview at W Dubai – The Palm on 8 January where football fans can expect to hear personal stories and behind the scenes anecdotes of his illustrious career.
Hologram Concert
The first ever hologram concert in the city will debut this DSF on 26 and 27 December, featuring a hologram of Umm Kulthum accompanied by a live orchestra of 20 musicians on stage, as well as the special performance of Sana’a Nabil.
City Lights Installations
Art and technology will come together to create an astounding interactive light installations at Burj Plaza from 7 January 2020 to 1 February 2020. Music, mirrors and colourful lights will combine to deliver the most ‘instagrammable’ moments in a unique festival vibe.
World-Class Performers
The festive atmosphere will be experienced at every turn with roaming entertainment available around every corner of the city. International theatrical shows, musicians and artists will come together to offer exciting moments for family and friends across multiple locations throughout DSF.
Daily Fireworks
A beloved DSF tradition, world-class fireworks displays will splash the skies every night at The Beach, Al Seef, La Mer, Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek, The Pointe and The Dubai Frame.
DSF Dine-In Specials
In celebration of the 25th edition, more than 1,000 restaurants will provide discounts starting from 25 per cent for in-dining experiences to be used when signing up with the Zomato Gold membership programme. You will also provide a 25 per cent reduction in membership fees.
Shopping And Promotions
Shoppers across Dubai’s malls will enjoy offers of between 25 per cent and 75 per cent off international fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle brands.
12 Hour Sale
In a welcome tradition, DSF will kick off in style with an exclusive 12 Hour Sale at Majid Al Futtaim Malls, giving customers up to 90 per cent off at Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, City Centre Me‘aisem, My City Centre Barsha and City Centre Al Shindagha. Running from midday to midnight on 26 December, this year will see 25 winners take home AED 10,000 vouchers to be spent at MAF malls.
DSF Surprises
Watch out for DSF daily surprise deals from 2 to 26 January 2020. The deals are announced 24 hours in advance.
DSF Outdoor Markets
New to DSF this edition and created in tribute to the festival’s inaugural year, a series of pop-up markets will appear across the city in Last Exit, Al Khawaneej, Al Rigga Street and City Walk 2, combining the heritage of Dubai with innovative retail experiences and entertainment for all.
Souk Heritage
Inspired by the bustling souks of the UAE, the Souk Heritage concept will become the cultural hub of DSF, with a traditional style market alongside 1.8km of the Dubai Creek in Al Seef allowing visitors to experience different cultures, enjoy shopping, dining, art and entertainment from around the world.
Market Outside the Box (MOTB)
MOTB reinvents itself as the ultimate hangout this 25th edition of DSF. Running from 16 January 2020 to 1 February 2020, MOTB will showcase local, regional and international musicians, as well as fashion and food vendors. Additionally, an enclosed experiential Game Zone taking up to 24 gamers, and a dedicated Kids Zone will make hearts race with adrenaline and keep visitors coming back for more.