The iconic Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), the region’s original shopping and entertainment celebration and the longest-running retail festival of its kind in the world, will return for its 31^st edition later this year, running from December 5 to January 11, 2026.

Everyone’s favourite season is here! For nearly three decades, DSF has been part of the city’s story, and this year it returns bigger and more unforgettable than ever, blending reimagined favourites with exciting new experiences to create a season like no other.
Every corner of Dubai will transform into the beating heart of the region, delivering 38 days of unstoppable shopping, entertainment and family-fun experiences.

Since its inception in 1996, DSF has evolved into a globally recognised cultural phenomenon, welcoming millions of visitors and transforming the city into a hub where commerce, creativity and community converge. Families who once experienced DSF as children are now returning with their own, making the festival a true generational tradition.

This latest edition celebrates that legacy with a programme overflowing with unmissable experiences. The star-studded opening weekend concerts will feature an electrifying lineup of international and regional artists to set the tone for a season of non-stop excitement. Several of the festival’s most popular attractions return with enhanced features, including the DSF Drone Show, DSF Auto Season and Dubai’s favourite outdoor market:e& MOTB.

Visitors will be able to experience the festival’s most ambitious spectacle yet, as 1,000+drones, including 100 pyro drones, light up the night sky in harmony with the festival’s much-loved tradition of fireworks. For the first time, drones and fireworks will combine in two brand-new shows every evening, creating the longest performances ever staged. Free for all to enjoy at Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR, these breathtaking displays will transform the city skyline into a canvas of wonder throughout the season.

DSF Auto Season builds on the success of its previous edition, bringing together an exciting line-up of experiences that go beyond showcasing cars to create a community where enthusiasts connect, share their passion and celebrate motoring culture.

Meanwhile, the ever-popular e& MOTB will once again transform Dubai Design District into an open-air festival hub. This year, it will feature 27 new food vendors, 56 retail concepts – mostly homegrown – and more than 100 exclusive products. With free concerts, interactive art and a refreshed layout including new viewing towers, e& MOTB remains Gen Z’s favourite winter gathering spot.

For those seeking a scenic escape, DSF x Hatta will offer family-friendly evenings in Dubai’s natural landscapes. Highlights include the immersive Hatta Lights trails, outdoor concerts, gourmet pop-ups, fireworks displays and kids’ activities.

Across the city, shoppers will be spoiled for choice with unparalleled retail offerings, including mega sales, limited-edition collaborations and pop-up markets showcasing homegrown designers and global luxury brands. More than 1,000 retailers, from high-street favourites to avant-garde boutiques, will offer something for every style and taste. Culinary connoisseurs will be able to explore a dynamic gastronomy scene, from MICHELIN-starred restaurants to heritage food trails celebrating Dubai’s diverse cultural roots.

A complete calendar of DSF events will be released soon, offering a comprehensive guide to experiencing the city’s most vibrant season to the fullest. With its perfect winter weather, world-class infrastructure and exceptional hospitality, Dubai provides the ideal backdrop for this much-awaited citywide celebration.

GO: Visit www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dsf or follow @DubaiFestivals on social media for more information.