Dubai Shopping Festival Unveils Dates for 38 Days of Unmissable Regional Celebrations

Ahmed Ayamn
Oct 4
2 min read

The countdown begins for the 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) — the world’s longest-running retail and entertainment celebration — returning from 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026.

For 38 days, Dubai will transform into a citywide festival hub filled with shopping offers, world-class concerts, drone and fireworks show, family entertainment, and culinary experiences, cementing DSF’s status as one of the Middle East’s most anticipated annual events.

A Legacy of Global Appeal

Since its launch in 1996, DSF has evolved into a globally recognised phenomenon that welcomes millions of visitors annually. Families who once experienced DSF as children now return with their own, making the festival a generational tradition that blends shopping, culture, and community.

2025–2026 Highlights

Opening Weekend Concerts 🎶 — International and regional artists headline a star-studded launch.
Drone & Fireworks Shows ✨ — For the first time, 1,000+ drones (including 100 pyro drones) will merge with fireworks in two nightly shows, the longest ever staged, at Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.
DSF Auto Season 🚗 — A celebration of car culture with experiences designed for enthusiasts and families alike.
e& MOTB Market 🎪 — Dubai Design District turns into an open-air festival with 27 new food vendors, 56 retail concepts (mostly homegrown), interactive art, and free concerts.
DSF x Hatta 🌄 — Family-friendly evenings in the mountains with concerts, food pop-ups, fireworks, and the immersive Hatta Lights trails.
Retail & Gastronomy 🛍️🍴 — Over 1,000 retailers with mega sales, pop-ups, and exclusive collaborations alongside MICHELIN-starred dining and heritage food trails.

Why It Matters

DSF continues to be a cornerstone of Dubai’s economy and cultural life, uniting commerce, creativity, and community. It offers residents and visitors alike the chance to experience Dubai’s perfect winter weather, world-class hospitality, and diverse cultural offerings, all under one calendar.