Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2025‑26 runs from 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, spanning 38 days of mega sales, nightly entertainment, fireworks, concerts, cultural experiences, raffles, and citywide events across Dubai. The Dubai Shopping Festival 2025‑26 is a month-plus-long retail and entertainment season with massive discounts across malls and markets, daily raffles (including gold and cars), nightly drone/firework shows, live performances, food experiences, and cultural showcases.
What Is the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)?
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is an annual winter retail celebration organized by the Dubai Festivals & Retail Establishment under Dubai’s Department of Economy & Tourism. What started in 1996 as a citywide sale has become one of the world’s biggest shopping and entertainment festivals, blending seasonal deals with cultural and entertainment experiences throughout Dubai.
Dates & Duration (2025‑26)
- Start: 5 December 2025
- End: 11 January 2026
- Total Duration: ~38 days of non‑stop sales, events, and experiences.
Note: Some sources mention alternative date windows, but the official announcement confirms 5 Dec – 11 Jan.
Why DSF Is Special
DSF isn’t just a sale, it’s a citywide festival of shopping + experiences:
Huge discounts on fashion, electronics, luxury goods & jewellery.
Daily raffles with prizes like gold, cash, cars, and more.
Drone light shows & fireworks illuminate Dubai’s skyline nightly.
Live concerts & performances across the city.
Cultural pop‑ups, markets, street entertainment & immersive installations.
4. Where Do DSF Activities Happen?
The festival spreads across all major shopping destinations and public spaces, including:
- The Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- Dubai Festival City Mall
- Global Village (massive multicultural market & entertainment hub)
- Outdoor spots like Bluewaters Island, JBR waterfront, and Downtown Dubai for drone/fireworks shows.
Top Things to Do at DSF 2025‑26
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Expect colossal discounts across international brands, tech, fashion, home goods, beauty, and more in malls, outlets,s and traditional souks.
Nightly Fireworks & Drone Shows
The sky comes alive nightly with dazzling drone formations and fireworks, a signature that transforms nights into a spectacle.
Live Entertainment & Concerts
Expect concerts and performances featuring international and regional stars, street shows, music nights, and themed entertainment.
Cultural Experiences & Markets
Visit Global Village for a global bazaar, tastes from different cuisines, carnival rides, and handcrafted souvenirs.
Lucky Draws & Mega Raffles
Daily prize draws offer chances to win gold, cash rewards, and luxury cars, an experience unique to DSF.
What You Can Buy During DSF
Shopping categories that shine at DSF include:
- Gold & Jewellery: Deep discounts and raffle entries.
- Electronics & Gadgets: Deals on the latest tech.
- Fashion & Luxury Goods: Top brands with markdowns.
- Perfumes & Gifts: Perfect for holiday gifting.
Best Time to Go
- DSF runs throughout winter, perfect for pleasant weather exploring and shopping.
- Early December: Opening celebrations + early deals.
- Late December: Great for concerts & festive events.
- January: Best for final discounts and prize draws.
Accommodation Tips
Hotels near Downtown, Dubai Marina, or Festival City book up early, so secure your stay in advance for the best rates.
Getting Around
Dubai’s Metro, buses, and taxis conveniently connect all major malls and festival venues.
Practical Tips for Shoppers
Show up early: Weekday mornings usually mean lighter crowds.
Use festival apps: The DSF app can have flash deals and exclusive offers.
Keep receipts: Needed for raffle entries.
Comfortable shoes: You’ll walk a lot.
Budget savvy: Build a list before you start. DSF deals are tempting.
Final Thoughts
Dubai Shopping Festival 2025‑26 isn’t just about shopping; it’s a full‑city celebration of fashion, deals, entertainment, and cultural surprises. Whether you’re hunting discounts, attending night shows, winning prizes, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, DSF is one of the world’s most exciting winter events.
Is DSF free to attend?
Yes, exploring the festival and most shows is free, specific concerts/attractions may cost extra.
What’s the best thing to buy?
Gold, electronics, fashion, and luxury fragrances are popular buys.
Are prize draws real?
Yes, DSF raffles include daily gold prizes, cash and cars for shoppers who meet purchase criteria.
Can families attend?
Absolutely, DSF caters to all ages with family experiences, shows and interactive events.
