Your favourite annual shopping extravaganza, Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is back! The grand opening of 26th edition of the festival was a hit with shoppers, families and music buffs alike with a stellar roster of live concerts, mesmerising fireworks and entertainment attractions. Adhering to necessary safety protocols and superior measures, Dubai continues to lead the way when it comes to reviving the much-loved culture of live events and festivals, that the very essence of ‘community’ is built on. Being one of the safest cities to travel to in 2021, Dubai is setting the benchmark for community events in 2021.
This year’s DSF-goers can focus on fun-filled live events, thrilling culinary experiences and discounted retail therapy, while resting assured that Dubai has their safety, perched at the very top of its agenda. Read on to find out what awaits you during DSF 2020-21!
SALT Camp
Coming from the city’s well-known burger joint, SALT or Sugar is the best gift for all foodies attending the Dubai Shopping Festival. These two adjoining dining areas offer a scrumptious savory meal and heavenly desserts. From wagyu beef sliders to rich shakes, once to come here, you will just HAVE to try it all!
Drone Light Show
Watch the Dubai coastline immerse into an array of bright hues as Bluewaters Island and The Beach set the scene for Dubai Shopping Festival Drone Light Show. An innovative and dazzling visual delight, there are two themed shows running for 45 days, from 7pm to 9:30 pm, exploring the city and celebrating its transformation.
Al Muraqabat & Hatta
A hot favourite among families, this pop-up outdoor market gives you a chance to discover local artisans and vendors, while inviting you for delectable bites from local food trucks. Musicians and artists make the day livelier with live performances all day long.
Etisalat Market OTB
Nestled in the backyard of two of the city’s most iconic landmarks- Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, Etisalat Market OTB presents a fun combination of local and international brands, food trucks and live entertainment that you can enjoy in Dubai’s sunny winter. NEWTRO, being this year’s theme, brings together “new” and “retro” to discover the finest beauty and fashion treasures of South Korea.
Performing Arts of Dubai
Sure to make heads turn, Performing Arts of Dubai comprises roaming entertainment at the city’s most loved retail spaces. Be it Ocho the Octopus, a 4m high digital puppet or a series of neon creatures, these will surely catch your attention. Flow Artist- the Emirati circus performer who has never been seen before will entertain you with his eccentric dance moves and sly tricks.
Ripe Market at Academy Park
Set up against the sunny winters of Dubai is this weekly market where you can pick up organic produce and relish tasty bites from a wide selection of food trucks. The highlights of the bazaar are individuals and businesses from across emirates offering a wide range of products in fashion, art, food and so much more. Free yoga sessions, live entertainment and open mics keep the excitement level up!
Supercar Raffle
The ultimate raffle in the history of DSF, this will give away an AED 6 million W Motors Feny SuperSport to one super lucky winner. Shoppers who buy a special scale model of the Fenyr SuperSport for AED 1,500 from 15 December 2020 until 30 March 2021 will receive a raffle coupon, which may be your chance to win a customized version of the Fenyr SuperSport.
Al Seef Market Presented by Al Foah
A tasteful blend of Emirati heritage and modernism, Al Seef Market houses contemporary brands as well as traditional handiwork from local craftsmen. Themed weeks add on to the charm of the market, with children-friendly workshops, food-tasting, and other exciting activities coupled with mesmerizing fireworks every night at 8:30 PM.
Must See Exhibitions
Witness a moving series of new works by Iraqi artist Hiwa K ‘Do you know what you are burning?’- at the Jameel Arts Centre. The acclaimed artist tackles themes of immigration, nationality, and resilience in a solo exhibition that marks his debut in Asia and the Middle East.
Theatrical Shows
Cirque de Glase is a one of its kind ice show of stunning acrobatics that takes the viewers through the evolution of Earth. Sound, light, and motion come to life in this rare experience that never fails to amaze audiences of all ages. For kids, Beauty and the Beast is a wholesome experience that will leave you smiling.
