Parents in Dubai, here’s your calling! Dubai Summer Surprises is trying something new this year. Its very first Back-to-School Carnival, and it’s landing at Palm Jumeirah Mall for 2 nights only.
Back-To-School Carnival In Dubai: When And What It Actually Is
The carnival runs Friday 7 and Saturday 8 August, 6 pm to 10 pm each night, free entry both days. It’s DSS leaning into the back-to-school stretch of the calendar with something more than a shopping promo. Expect live entertainment, roaming performers, and youth showcases, all built around the slightly chaotic joy of summer ending and school starting again.
Friday’s lineup
- 6:03 pm — First Day of School (Stage Show)
- 6:33 pm — DSS Balloon Show (Interactive)
- 7:08 pm — KPOP Heroes (Stage Show)
- 7:33 pm — Unlimited Magic Bag (Roaming Act)
- 7:58 pm — Youth Dance Pop-Up (Youth Participation)
- 8:40 pm — Raffle Draw
- 9:00 pm — Schoolyard Spectrum (Stage Show)
- 9:25 pm — DSS Finale (Interactive Stage Show)
Saturday’s lineup
- 6:03 pm — Unlimited Magic Bag (Roaming Act)
- 6:33 pm — DSS Balloon Show (Interactive)
- 7:08 pm — Circus of Science (Interactive)
- 7:28 pm — Youth Choir (Youth Participation)
- 7:58 pm — First Day of School (Stage Show)
- 8:40 pm — Raffle Draw
- 9:00 pm — Schoolyard Spectrum (Stage Show)
- 9:25 pm — DSS Finale (Interactive Stage Show)
Modesh & Dana Are Showing Up Too
No DSS event feels complete without Modesh and Dana putting in an appearance, and this one’s no exception. The pair will be at Palm Jumeirah Mall on August 7, meeting kids and generally being the reason half the under-10s in Dubai show up in the first place. It’s the same energy that’s made Modesh World a summer fixture, just transplanted onto Palm Jumeirah for a tighter, two-day run.
Also Read: Snag Home Decor To Clothes At Up To 90% Off As Dubai Summer Surprises Returns In July
The Freebies
Brands are giving away prize vouchers on stage across the weekend, including Trampo (the indoor trampoline park), Melodica (music and dance), True Gamers, Three Cuts Steakhouse, Le Majlis, NMC Healthcare and Roasters. Worth sticking around after the shows if you want a shot at those.
Who’s Behind It
The carnival is organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) as part of DSS 2026, which runs the full summer with a Great Dubai Summer Sale, a Back-to-School campaign and, evidently, a fair bit more live entertainment than in past years.
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied
FAQs
When is the Back-to-School Carnival at Palm Jumeirah Mall?
Friday 7 and Saturday 8 August 2026, from 6pm to 10pm each day.
Will Modesh and Dana be there?
Yes, they're making a special appearance on August 7.
