Dubai is one of the world’s biggest tourist destinations, famous for its awe-inspiring skyline, rich cultural history and gorgeous beaches. But what sets it apart as a shopper’s paradise is the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)—one of the most awaited retail events of the year. Whether you’re an avid shopper or visiting for the first time, DSF promises an unforgettable experience with fantastic deals, live concerts, fireworks, and much more. Here’s a complete guide to help you get the most out of DSF 2024.

What Makes the Dubai Shopping Festival Special?

This year, DSF is set to host one of the biggest celebrations in its history. It will showcase the best of the city’s fashion, entertainment, music and culture in an action-packed extravaganza spanning 38 days. What makes it special is that this year’s event promises an extravaganza of discounts, entertainment, and cultural experiences that will captivate visitors from across the globe.
The Dubai shopping festival locations will cover almost every corner of the city, with the biggest global celebrities and performers, concerts, stunning New Year’s displays and more. There will be amazing shopping deals on offer from 800+ local and worldwide brands in tandem with raffles and exclusive experiences like drone shows and nightly fireworks. 

Dates for DSF 2024- Timeline 

The dates of the Dubai shopping festival are between the 6th of December, 2024 and the 12th of January, 2025. 

Ticket Prices and Access

Several outdoor events and shows are free to attend, although the basic Dubai shopping festival ticket price costs just AED 100. You can buy it online or from The Gold Souk, EPPCO, ENOC petrol stations and other outlets. 

Accessibility

The Global Village is set to be the heart of the action, nestled on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road or the E 311. You have to take exit 37 and park in the P1-P12 areas for access to this location. It is readily accessible via taxis and other public transportation. 
The Dubai Festival City Mall location is also easy to access. If you are travelling by the metro network, get down at the Emirates station and take an RTA taxi to access the mall. .
You can also take free shuttle buses to the mall from the Creek metro station. Another option is to go on a picturesque water taxi ride till your location. The RTA bus routes that stop at the location include 64A, F58, 53, 44, 103 and 24. 

Top Shopping Destinations at DSF 2024

There are innumerable locations where you can shop and take advantage of the fabulous deals and offers from top brands. Some of them include: 

• Dubai Mall- One of the world’s biggest malls, it offers plenty of DSF goodies from new-age eco brands, thrift stores, designer labels and local boutiques. 
  • Etisalat MOTB is the flagship DSF market for shopping here, while you can also shop from participating retailers like Aldo, Alexander J, Diesel, Armani Exchange, Bally, Banana Republic, Crocs, Givenchy, Jimmy Choo and more. 
  • Visit the Time Out Market Dubai here along with the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo with its stunning walk-through tunnel. 
  • There’s also eKart Zabeel, KidZania, VR Park, Reel Cinemas and a rooftop sports complex (Zabeel Sports District). 
• Dubai Festival City- Several Dubai Festival City shops are participating in the DSF 2024. 
  • Enjoy waterfront dining at the Festival Bay with so many cafes and restaurants. 
  • It also has the city’s biggest food court and the Middle East’s only Hard Rock Café.
  • Fabyland is an entertainment centre for families covering 70,000 sq. ft. and you will love attractions like the Glowland arcade centre, BOUNCE-X Trampoline Park, and IMAGINE. 
• Mall of the Emirates- Another hotspot for shoppers, the Mall of the Emirates offers 560+ stores to shop from along with various pop-ups and a stunning Fashion Dome with its wrought-iron ceiling. 
  • From Apple, Burberry and Chanel to Polo Ralph Lauren and Missoni, there’s everything you want here. 
  • There’s even Ski Dubai and Dreamscape, an amazing VR experience here along with Magic Planet for children. 
  • If you’re in the mood for a movie or two, head to VOX Cinemas, while there are plenty of dining options to satiate your hunger cravings. 
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah- One of the top places to enjoy the vibrancy of the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Souk Madinat is a charming spot beside the Burj Al Arab. 
  • It showcases a traditional Arabian theme complete with restaurants, bars, cafes, boat rides and more. 
  • You will find jewellery, souvenirs, trinkets and more at the local stalls here. And once you’re done shopping, visit the Theatre of Digital Arts (ToDA) for amazingly immersive experiences. 

Offers and Promotions

There are several Dubai shopping festival offers and deals that you can check out, including unbelievable discounts and rates from top brands in the city. There are several offers for dining at select restaurants at City Walk in the opening weekend along with fabulous sales and discounts at major retail outlets. 
You can shop and get a chance to win fabulous prizes like shopping vouchers, cash and new cars among other goodies. There are also daily raffles that you can take part in. Several shopping giants are about to announce their lineup of offers so you should keep an eye on the latest DSF updates. 

Entertainment and Activities

The Dubai Shopping Festival 2024 is not just about shopping. You can also expect a fabulous medley of cultural, culinary and other attractions to add to the thrilling atmosphere. For example, there is the 321 Festival which will have several opening concerts by leading global performers from 6-8 December at the Coca-Cola Arena. 
Some of the top performers include the iconic superstars Kadim Al Sahir and Georges Wassouf. More performers will be announced soon. At the same time, free outdoor entertainment and food and beverage offers for guests. Etisalat MOTB is another hub for fascinating entertainment, food and more. 
Gear up for the exciting nightly drone shows that are free to attend and showcase the best of technology against the stunning beach backdrop. 
The captivating Dubai Lights also returns with amazing artwork across the city from global artists, architects, studios and designers. 
Some of the most famous landmarks in Dubai will offer unique lighting and installations with interactive experiences for visitors. And of course, there’s the epic New Year fireworks display that you should not miss! 

 

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Now that you’ve got an idea about the DSF 2024, it’s time to plan your upcoming trip. Make sure you follow these tips for the best possible experience. 

• Book Ahead- Make sure you book your flight tickets and accommodation in advance on your convenient dates without fail. Make sure to book accommodation which makes it easier for you to access all the major shopping locations. You can opt for serviced apartments that offer flexible short/mid/long-term stays with competitive rates and great amenities. 
• Stay Hydrated- Remember that dehydration can happen even amidst the pleasant weather conditions in Dubai from December to January.
• Use Public Transportation- Taxis or rental cabs are available to help you access almost every location of the Dubai shopping festival. Yet, you can save money and experience the city uniquely by using public transportation.

Conclusion 

The Dubai shopping festival promises everything from fabulous deals and offers from leading global and local brands and an array of cultural, dining and other experiences. If you’re a shopaholic, music and food lover or travel enthusiast, then this festival should be on your itinerary. 
Plan your trip earlier and get the best accommodation Just make sure that you plan your trip in advance and book comfortable accommodation near key locations of the festival. You can check out top properties at TheSqua.re with easy access to the Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai Mall, Global Village, Mall of the Emirates and many other prime zones. Come visit the DSF 2024 and have a magical time ahead! 
Do not plunge into the last-minute rush. Book your accommodation ahead of the Dubai Shopping Festival.