Dubai is extremely popular among the tourist across the world. Many people only visit Dubai for luxury shopping, view its iconic architecture and unforgettable experiences. You should know that this city will become more vibrant during its biggest annual celebrations i.e. Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF).
You need to know that Dubai Shopping Festival is not just a shopping event. It comes with a wide range of huge offers, discounts, live performances, family activities, fireworks, dining experience, special events and many more across the city. Dubai Shopping Festival offers something for everyone including shoppers, tourist, or even a resident.
During the festival, Dubai transforms into a destination for shopping and entertainment. You will get huge discounts not only at traditional markets but also world famous malls. In this guide, you will learn about Dubai Shopping Festival, why it is special, what you can expect, where to shop etc. So, read the article carefully.
What is Dubai Shopping Festival?
Dubai Shopping Festival is also known as DSF which is recognized as a annual festival which allows for city wide shopping and several entertainment activities. It is firstly launched in 1990s with a aim to strengthen the Dubai’s position as a destination for global shopping and tourism.
Over the years, now DSF has grown into one of the most anticipated event of Dubai. In this festival, You will find several promotions and activities in shopping malls, restaurants, retail stores, entertainment venues as well as popular destinations.
In Dubai Shopping Festival, shoppers will get special offers on different types of products which include home furnishing, fashion, electronics, beauty products, jewellery and many more. In fact, shopping is only a part of the festival. It is also popular for the live concerts, fireworks, outdoor events, entertainment activities which attracts people of every age.
During the festival, visitors will get completely different experience of Dubai.
When Dubai Shopping Festival takes Place?
You should know that Dubai Shopping Festival is mainly organized during the winter season and runs for several weeks. There is no any exact date of the festival but mainly it begins in the mid week of December. If you want to visit Dubai only to be the part of the festival then you should check the official announcement.
In fact, winter is one of the best times to visit Dubai as temperatures are more comfortable for travelling as compared to hot summer months. In this season, you can visit iconic attractions, shopping malls, enjoy outdoor dining, desert experiences, relax at beaches and many more.
Want to visit Dubai specifically for DSF? If yes then you must check the schedule of the event, mall promotions, ticket bookings, opening hours etc.
Why Dubai Shopping Festival is so popular?
The biggest reason for the popularity of Dubai Shopping Festival is the sheer variety of experiences which is available throughout the city.
You need to know that this sale does not takes place at one location. It is spread across the Dubai which includes shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment venues, public spaces, retail outlets and many more. In this festival, visitors will experience:
- Special discounts on fashion as well as lifestyle products
- Shopping offers and promotions
- Electronics deal
- Light shows and fireworks
- Several family oriented activities
- Concerts and live entertainment
- Outdoor event
- Prize promotions and raffles
- Special offers in restaurants
During Dubai Shopping Festival, residents and international visitors will have completely different experience.
Where you can shop during Dubai Shopping Festival?
You must know that Dubai does not have shortage of shopping destination. During DSF, you will get excellent opportunity to explore the famous malls or retail areas. The common places are mentioned below:
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is located in Downtown Dubai which is one of famous shopping destinations of Dubai. Here, you will find enormous selection of luxury as well as international brands. Even more, there are several restaurants, cafes, activities for families, as well as entertainment attractions.
The most popular attraction of Dubai Mall is Dubai Aquarium, Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, Kid area and many more. During Dubai Shopping Festival, shoppers will get several offers, discounts and promotions from the participating brands.
Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates is yet another most popular shopping destination in Dubai. It is a one stop solution for shopping, dining, fashion, entertainment, leisure attractions and many more.
The mall is popular for Ski Dubai which is a indoor winter entertainment destination. During the festival, visitors can spend their whole day shopping, dining and enjoy entertainment without traveling to different part of the city.
Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall also provides a combination of shopping, dining, waterfront and entertainment experiences. It is located beside the Dubai Creek where visitors will experience complete different atmosphere as compared with larger malls. Here, you can watch spectacular evening shows.
City Center Mirdif
The visitors who are staying outside the central Dubai can visit City Center Mirdif. It is one of the convenient shopping destinations which has several stores, restaurants, entertainment options etc. If you want to explore major shopping mall away from the tourist area then it is the best option.
What you can purchase during Dubai Shopping Festival?
There are a wide range of products categories which is available during the DSF. Some of the important ones are mentioned below:
Fashion
Dubai Shopping Festival is one of the best fashion shopping destinations which have everything ranging from affordable high street to international luxurious brands. It is the best opportunities for the people who are looking for promotions on various fashion products including handbags, clothing, accessories, shoes etc.
Jewellery
As you know, Dubai is mostly famous for gold as well as jewellery markets. If you are interested in jewellery then you should visit Dubai during the DSF to explore traditional gold markets as well as shopping malls.
Dubai Gold Souk is considered as the traditional shopping destination which offers completely different experience from shopping malls.
Electronics
Visitors can also shop electronic items during DSF. Here, you will find a wide range of offers on smartphones, cameras, gaming products, laptops, television and other accessories.
You should try to compare the prices, warranties, specification or even accessories before purchasing any expensive electronic items.
Home Products
Home and Lifestyle products are also popular among the visitors during Dubai Shopping Festival. Here, you can purchase home décor, kitchen products, perfumes, beauty products, lifestyle items, furniture etc.
What are the Entertainment Activities during Dubai Shopping Festival?
First time visitors should know that this festival is designed as a city wide celebration. During the festival period, you will find several special performances, live concerts, outdoor events, cultural experiences around the city.
Even more, the major attraction is a firework which is associated with the Dubai’s festival calendar. Evening shows are extremely popular among the families and visitors which creates a spectacular atmosphere.
What are Family Friendly Activities?
Dubai Shopping Festival is one of the best time for children also. There are many shopping malls which offers several entertainment areas and attractions for the children. In fact, Dubai has various family friendly locations when you can combine different activities like indoor entertainments, aquarium, cinemas, ice skating, themed attractions etc.
What are the Dining Options during Dubai Shopping Festival?
You need to know that Dubai offers several variety of dining experience to the visitors. There are a wide range of casual restaurants, international fast food chains, traditional Emirati cuisines, fine dining luxurious restaurants etc.
During the festival, visitors will also get special menus, dining experience and promotions.
If you want to experience memorable evening then you can try to dine with a waterfront views, evening entertainment event, sightseeing etc.
Is Dubai Shopping Festival worth Visiting?
If you are planning to visit Dubai then you should plan it during Dubai Shopping Festival as it is definitely worth visiting. You will not only get discounts but also enjoy different experience. You will find several dining, tourism, shopping and entertainment activities across the city.
Visitors will be able to experience the famous retail destinations of Dubai, winter atmosphere and entertainment calendar. Additionally, residents will be able to explore different parts of the Dubai and take benefits of the seasonal promotions.
The best way to enjoy Dubai Shopping Festival is to explore different parts of the city, try local food, visit traditional markets, enjoy the concerts and entertainment activities and shop your favorite items.
Final Thoughts:
Dubai Shopping Festival is an important part of the Dubai’s annual calendar. It attracts millions of shoppers and tourists across the world. Here, you will get the best experience of shopping, entertainment activities, dining options, activities for children, promotions and many more.
It is the most energetic season for the Dubai’s residents and visitors to update their wardrobe, find unique jewelleries, shop electronic items, attend special events, and enjoy a family day out etc.
Visitors are advised to visit modern luxury of Downtown Dubai as well as traditional markets of Deira. During the festival, you will be able to experience different side of the city which will provide several beautiful memories.