Dubai Shopping Festival Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Unforgettable Experiences

The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is currently in full swing, marking a grand celebration of its 30th anniversary. This year, DSF promises a plethora of extraordinary experiences that are sure to leave visitors enchanted. The festival features exhilarating entertainment, stunning fireworks displays, and an exciting new event, the inaugural DSF Auto Season. Shoppers can indulge in incredible deals at world-class shopping venues while enjoying a feast of culinary delights, all set against the backdrop of Dubai’s delightful winter weather. Beyond the bustling malls, the festival offers a variety of outdoor activities filled with fun and excitement. Here are some of the top al fresco spots to explore for unforgettable experiences.

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• Tantalizing Delights at CanteenX
• Spectacular Night Sky Shows
• Larger-than-Life Lighting Installations
• Fun Outdoor Experiences Not to Miss

Tantalizing Delights at CanteenX

Dive into a culinary adventure at CanteenX, located in Mushrif Park, Gate 1. This vibrant food festival showcases an impressive lineup of dishes from some of Dubai’s most trending eateries, including Lazio, Montauk, Foul and Tamees, Mitzumami, The Honestry, and Humm Crumbs, among others. This year, the event introduces four themed zones brimming with delectable food options, engaging kids’ activities, and interactive workshops. Attendees can try their hand at sushi rolling, matcha tea brewing, ice cream crafting, and origami folding. CanteenX will also welcome six delightful characters: Twirlo, Bunzi, Pizzani, Matcho, Scoopi, and Mallow, who will guide visitors through different zones, adding an element of whimsy to the outing. Additionally, enjoy live performances from talented oud players and the Emirati band Fourmanos, and catch X Factor contestants lighting up the stage with their talents. From December 13 to December 31. Weekdays from 4 PM to midnight, weekends from 4 PM to 1 AM. Located at Mushrif Park, Gate 1.

Spectacular Night Sky Shows

1. The DSF Drones Show Presented by Emarat

Prepare to be amazed by a stunning display as 1,000 drones illuminate the night sky with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Head to Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR, to witness the mesmerizing and free-to-watch DSF Drones Show, presented by Emarat, which features two performances each evening. Don’t miss the special pyro drone show on December 13, where drones will dazzle with fireworks in the sky. Free. Performances at 8 PM and 10 PM, until January 12. Locations: Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.

2. Fireworks Extravaganza

For breathtaking fireworks displays this winter, make your way to Dubai Festival City Mall or venture up to the Hatta mountains. Enjoy nightly fireworks shows at Festival Bay as part of the DSF Nights, each performance celebrating DSF’s 30th anniversary with the captivating soundtrack of Dubai Kawkab Akhir, a mesmerizing song by the legendary Rashed Al Majed. Additionally, spectacular fireworks displays will light up the Hatta Sign every Friday and Saturday until January 5. Free. Daily at 9 PM at Dubai Festival City Mall; Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM at Hatta Sign.

Larger-than-Life Lighting Installations

Returning for its fourth season, Dubai Lights offers visitors, residents, and art lovers the chance to marvel at breathtaking lighting installations. From sculptures inspired by the elements at Al Seef, Bluewaters, and Hatta to stunning artistic illuminations at Nakheel Mall and Palm West Beach, there’s a visual feast for everyone. Starting December 11, visitors can admire larger-than-life inflatables celebrating unity and creativity at Dubai Design District (d3). Beginning December 20, the Al Marmoom desert will also be illuminated with a magnificent installation. With each location providing a unique experience, you’ll have countless opportunities to capture Instagram-worthy moments. Free. Until January 12. Various locations including Al Marmoom, Al Seef, Bluewaters, City Walk, Dubai Design District (d3), Hatta, Nakheel Mall, Palm West Beach.

Fun Outdoor Experiences Not to Miss

1. DSF Nights at Dubai Festival City Mall

If you’re in search of a family-friendly destination this month, look no further than DSF Nights at Dubai Festival City Mall. Until January 12, join free concerts featuring stars like Diana Haddad, Yara, Hams Fekry, Sharqiat Band, and Ibrahim Sultan every Saturday. Children will delight in interactive shows, entertainment, and the DSF-themed IMAGINE shows at Festival Bay. Don’t miss the beloved SPACETOON characters such as Bluey, Barney, and Miraculous Ladybug performing from December 13 to January 4. The event promises fun for the entire family, complemented by pop-up restaurants and food trucks serving a delectable variety of dishes. Additionally, witness the performances of X Factor contestants every Sunday at DFCM, as talented individuals vie for their dreams with the guidance of renowned judges Ragheb Alama, Rahma Hind, and Fayez Al Saeed. Until January 12 at Dubai Festival City Mall; X Factor performances at 8 PM every Sunday.

2. Nature Adventures in Hatta

This winter, embrace the majestic mountains of the UAE by heading to Hatta for outdoor excitement. The DSF offers an array of experiences to explore Hatta’s expansive landscapes, including thrilling activities like mountain biking, hiking, zip lining, kayaking, and even foodie experiences. After all the adventure, indulge in delicious bites from local favorites like Home Bakery, GOAT Burger, and Damani Bites. Prices vary. Available Sunday to Thursday from 4 PM to 10 PM, and Friday to Saturday from noon to midnight; until January 5 at Hatta Wadi Hub.

3. Shopping, Dining, and Fun at e& MOTB

This year, e& MOTB emerges as the must-visit outdoor destination, embracing a vibrant Neo-Vintage theme where boldness and individuality thrive. Stroll through this outdoor mini-festival and explore pop-up shops from your favorite brands, enjoy live performances, and sample a variety of dishes from 25 different food and beverage vendors, including Chipotle and Dave’s Hot Chicken. The excitement continues with free concerts featuring some of Gen Z’s top stars—don’t miss the chance to see who takes the stage! Free. Monday to Thursday from 4 PM to 10 PM; Friday from 4 PM to midnight; Saturday and Sunday from noon to midnight at Dubai Design District, d3.

4. Escape to the Desert

This winter, trade the city’s hustle and bustle for a serene retreat to the Al Marmoom desert. Marvel at the stunning mirror installation from Dubai Lights while warming around a fire pit with a cup of hot cocoa at Al Marmoom Collective: The Uncommon X DSF pop-up. On weekends, enjoy outdoor cinema nights or live oud performances. With a dedicated kids’ arcade and play area, this destination provides the perfect family-friendly escape from city life. Be sure to sample some exclusive dishes from their seasonal menu. Open from 4 PM to midnight, from December 20 to January 12 at Al Marmoom.

5. Experience the Thrill of DSF Auto Season

Gear up for the inaugural DSF Auto Season, kicking off on January 1 and running until January 12. This exciting new event, celebrating DSF’s 30th anniversary, showcases the full spectrum of automotive culture, from classic cars to high-speed races and family-friendly activities. Mark your calendars for thrilling motoring events, including the Oman to Dubai Parade, Circuit De Meydan, Drift Home at Dubai Festival City, Mirdif Motor Show at City Centre Mirdif, and the Michelin 24 Hours Race at Dubai Autodrome. This lineup promises to highlight the best in automotive craftsmanship and provide ample opportunities to meet fellow motor enthusiasts. Free. January 1 to January 12 at Circuit De Meydan, Dubai Festival City, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Autodrome.

For more information, visit MYDSF.AE and follow @dubaifestivals for the latest updates.