Post by : Saif Rahman

Dubai, long recognised for its blend of luxury and large-scale events, is preparing to welcome shoppers and visitors to the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2025–26. The annual celebration draws international and local crowds who come for deep discounts, prize draws and a packed cultural and entertainment programme that goes beyond pure retail.

DSF 2025–26 will open on December 12, 2025, and close on January 26, 2026, delivering more than six weeks of sales, nightly fireworks, performances and special offers throughout the city. Retail centres, traditional souks and e-commerce platforms will all participate, presenting deals across apparel, electronics, jewellery, fragrances, homewares and more.

Launched in 1996 to boost Dubai's retail and tourism profile, the festival has expanded into one of the world’s leading shopping events. Decades on, DSF continues to combine shopping opportunities with live entertainment, cultural activities and public spectacles that cater to families, residents and international visitors alike.

Shoppers can expect markdowns of up to 75% at flagship malls including Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira and Ibn Battuta Mall. Global retailers such as Zara, H&M, Nike, Apple and Sephora typically run exclusive DSF promotions, while Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall offers curated deals for luxury buyers. Meanwhile, souks and pop-up markets present locally made goods, perfumes, handicrafts and gold items at competitive prices.

A signature element of DSF is its daily raffle draws that award winners with prizes ranging from luxury cars and gold to shopping vouchers and cash. The Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group also stages gold-focused promotions that can see customers win bullion and other gold prizes when purchasing jewellery during the festival period.

Entertainment underpins the festival calendar with international acts, citywide concerts, street theatre and choreographed fireworks displays. The opening ceremony — set to take place at Burj Park — is expected to feature a high-impact production of lights, music and pyrotechnics to mark the start of the season.

Culinary experiences form a major part of DSF programming. Restaurants across the emirate, alongside food trucks and themed night markets, will serve local and international dishes. Special food events during the festival provide opportunities to sample diverse cuisines in a festival atmosphere.

Family attractions remain central to DSF, with Global Village returning as a top draw with pavilions representing over 90 countries, cultural shows and amusement rides for children. Destinations such as Dubai Festival City Mall and Bluewaters Island will host family-friendly performances, water shows and nightly fireworks throughout the festival.

For tourists, DSF presents an attractive window to visit Dubai: mild winter weather, sightseeing options and package deals combine to make December and January ideal months for travel. Visitors can combine festival activities with desert excursions, coastal walks or visits to landmarks like Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Frame, aided by special hotel and airfare offers during the event.

To accommodate increased demand, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) commonly extends metro and bus service hours during DSF. The city also deploys enhanced security measures and additional parking arrangements at major venues to ensure smooth mobility and visitor safety.

Residents value the festival for the energy and commercial boost it brings to the city each year. Beyond sales and spectacles, DSF supports local businesses, stimulates tourism and showcases Dubai’s capacity to stage large-scale cultural and retail events.

With expanded programming, more participating brands and a packed events schedule, the Dubai Shopping Festival 2025–26 aims to deliver fresh experiences for shoppers, food lovers and families. Mark your calendars for a season of deals, entertainment and cultural activity across Dubai.

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