Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2024-2025: A Shopper’s Ultimate Guide to the 30th Edition
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), a global event of lights, entertainment, and world-class shopping, will run from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this month-long festival offers unbeatable deals across 800+ brands, thrilling raffles, fireworks, live concerts, and family-friendly attractions. Shoppers can explore malls like Dubai Mall and Global Village, with additional experiences such as drone shows, cultural events, and food festivals.
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2024-2025: Everything You Need to Know
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) returns with its 30th edition from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025, promising a month-long extravaganza of shopping, entertainment, and cultural festivities. Recognized as the world’s longest-running retail festival, DSF has transformed Dubai into a global shopping destination since its inception in 1996.
In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know about DSF 2024-2025, from the best places to shop, jaw-dropping discounts, and exciting raffles to must-see entertainment and family-friendly attractions.
What is Dubai Shopping Festival?
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is more than just shopping—it’s a citywide celebration packed with concerts, street performances, art installations, fireworks, and food festivals. During the 38 days of DSF, the entire city becomes a shopper’s paradise with over 800 global and local brands offering steep discounts, making it the perfect time to splurge.
What sets DSF apart is its massive scale: the festival runs across various shopping malls, souks, outdoor markets, and entertainment venues in Dubai. Shoppers not only enjoy discounts but also a vibrant atmosphere filled with live performances, raffles, and prize giveaways that often include luxury cars, gold, and even apartments.
Key Dates for DSF 2024-2025:
- Start Date: December 6, 2024
- End Date: January 12, 2025
Where to Shop at DSF 2025?
The Dubai Mall
As one of the largest malls globally, The Dubai Mall is home to more than 1,200 stores, including luxury brands and exclusive pop-up shops. During DSF, you can expect major discounts on fashion, electronics, and more.
Mall of the Emirates
Known for its indoor ski resort, Mall of the Emirates also offers unbeatable DSF deals across top brands such as Apple, Zara, and Chanel. Check out their seasonal sales, as well as activities like ice skating and luxury dining options.
Global Village
Global Village is an outdoor cultural extravaganza with pavilions representing over 27 countries. Besides shopping for unique handicrafts and global souvenirs, you’ll find food stalls and live performances.
Dubai Outlet Mall
For the best deals, head to Dubai Outlet Mall. Here, you can shop for luxury items at discounts of up to 90% during DSF. It’s a go-to spot for bargain hunters looking for brand-name products.
Gold Souk
Dubai is famous for its gold markets, and the Gold Souk is the best place to find discounts on jewelry during DSF. Whether you’re interested in traditional designs or modern styles, prices are competitive, and bargaining is encouraged.
Events and Entertainment:
Beyond shopping, DSF 2024-2025 offers out-of-this-world celebrations:
DSF Drone Show and Fireworks
Nightly drone shows and spectacular fireworks are a must-see. Taking place at key locations like The Beach at JBR and Bluewaters Island, these displays light up the sky with breathtaking visuals.
Live Concerts
Expect A-list performances from global stars across multiple venues in Dubai. Previous years have featured artists like Katy Perry and Amr Diab. Stay tuned for the official artist line-up closer to the festival.
Family-Friendly Attractions
For families, DSF offers more than just shopping. Explore themed parks like Dubai Garden Glow, Dubai Safari Park, and Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm. There are also funfairs and kid-friendly activities at various DSF markets.
Raffles and Competitions:
Dubai Shopping Festival is famous for its grand raffles and giveaways. During DSF 2024-2025, shoppers can participate in raffles with chances to win luxury cars, cash prizes, and gold. Some competitions even offer apartments as prizes. All you need to do is spend a minimum amount at participating stores to enter.
Shopping Benefits – The Tickit App:
Maximize your shopping experience by using the Tickit app, which allows you to earn points from purchases made during DSF. Link your UAE-issued credit or debit card, and every transaction earns you points, redeemable for exciting rewards, including chances to win AED 100,000 in Tickit points.
What to Eat at DSF?
1. Canteen X at Mushrif Park
This culinary extravaganza offers a wide variety of cuisines from Dubai’s top restaurants. With over 20 homegrown brands and food trucks, Canteen X is a must-visit for foodies looking to try something new.
2. Global Village
From street food on Fiesta Street to international delicacies, Global Village offers a gastronomic journey through Asia, Europe, and beyond. The floating market is a particular highlight, with foods inspired by Southeast Asia.
3. Expo City’s Winter City
Get into the holiday spirit with chalet-style huts serving festive treats like hot chocolate, mulled drinks, and mince pies. Perfect for a family outing.
DSF Decor and Lights:
One of the festival’s most enchanting features is the citywide decorations. Dubai’s streets and malls light up with themed installations that add magic to the entire shopping experience. Keep an eye out for iconic light displays like the butterfly DSF logo and dazzling Christmas trees.
How to Book Your DSF Tour?
To make the most of your Dubai Shopping Festival experience, it’s best to plan ahead. Many destination management companies offer special DSF packages, which include hotel stays, visa services, and exclusive access to DSF events. Whether you’re staying at Atlantis The Palm or exploring Abu Dhabi with day trips, you can customize your DSF experience to suit your needs.
Popular DSF Tour Packages:
- 2 nights Atlantis The Palm starting at AED 2,399
- 3 days Dubai package starting at AED 600
- Abu Dhabi Day Tour starting at AED 125
Conclusion:
The Dubai Shopping Festival 2024-2025 is a shopper’s dream come true. With its unbeatable discounts, entertainment, raffles, and spectacular light shows, DSF is more than just a shopping event; it’s an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for an unforgettable family vacation, DSF offers something for everyone.
Make sure to mark your calendar, pack your bags, and get ready for the shopping spree of a lifetime at the 30th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival.
