Dubai Shopping Festival 2025-26 Guide: Dates, Drone Shows, Prizes & Hatta Events
The 31st edition of the iconic Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is officially underway, transforming the city into a global hub of retail, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. Running from December 5, 2025, to January 11, 2026, this 38-day extravaganza offers far more than just shopping deals. Here’s your essential guide to everything you need to know about DSF 2025-26.
Festival Kick-off: A Blend of Retail and Spectacle
The festival launched with a vibrant mix of concerts, family shows, and dazzling displays across the city. Malls and venues are buzzing with exclusive discounts, giveaways, and immersive installations, setting the stage for a season defined by indulgence and fun. Organizers emphasize that this year’s DSF seamlessly integrates retail, lifestyle, and entertainment into one cohesive experience.
Star-Studded Nights & Waterfront Entertainment
A major highlight is the e& DSF Nights series at Dubai Festival City Mall. The lineup began with a high-energy performance by pop culture star Nora Fatehi on December 6, capped with a fireworks display. The nightly events promise interactive attractions and inclusive fun for all ages along the waterfront promenades.
Beyond the Malls: Unique Experiences in Hatta
In an exciting expansion, DSF 2025 extends into the scenic Hatta Wadi Hub in the mountains. This curated outdoor experience features:
- Candlelit Concerts: A blend of classical and contemporary music under the stars, with a free kids' concert on December 13 for children aged eight and under.
- Dinner in the Sky: A thrilling culinary adventure suspended 50 meters above ground, offering panoramic mountain views for Dh300 per person.
- Roxy Dome Cinema: A cozy open-air cinema for family-friendly movie nights.
The Must-See Spectacle: The DSF Drone & Pyro Show
The most anticipated new feature is the groundbreaking DSF Drone and Pyro Show. Each night, over 1,000 drones—including 100 pyro drones—will light up the sky in a synchronized display choreographed to a specially composed soundtrack by legendary composer Hans Zimmer. This fusion of technology and artistry is set to be a nightly cinematic marvel.
Also Read: Dubai's New Welcome: Passport Stamp Featuring Sheikh Zayed & Rashid
Shop & Win Big: The DSF Mega Raffle
Shopping is at the heart of DSF, with the chance to win incredible prizes through the DSF Mega Raffle. Every purchase is an entry to win:
- A brand-new Nissan car.
- Daily cash prizes of Dh100,000.
- A grand finale mega cash prize of Dh400,000.
Why DSF Remains a Global Phenomenon
Since 1996, the Dubai Shopping Festival has evolved from a retail sale into a multi-dimensional global event. This year’s edition—with its innovative drone shows, mountain excursions, A-list concerts, and lucrative raffles—demonstrates its continual reinvention. DSF 2025-26 is not just a shopping trip; it's a comprehensive celebration of lifestyle, innovation, and community in the heart of Dubai.