As the Dubai Festival kicks off, the city is preparing to welcome millions of visitors and tourists from all over the world. This article will discuss Dubai’s grand celebration, offering a variety of fantastic and unique tourist activities.
About the Annual Dubai Festival
Every year, Dubai hosts the Dubai Festival. This year’s edition, as usual, will take place during December, with some activities extending into January.
Dubai Festival organizes a variety of entertainment and shopping events, such as fireworks displays and musical concerts, along with deals and discounts on goods and services.
Hosting this festival during the winter season attracts people to explore markets and draws tourists to Dubai due to the pleasant weather, allowing them to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities and various tourist attractions.
Many shopping centers and major malls in the city participate in the festival, offering fantastic deals and significant discounts on a wide range of goods and services throughout the event.
Highlights and events of this year’s Dubai Festival
You’ll experience a festive atmosphere in Dubai with the 30th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival. The festival runs from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025, featuring shopping and entertainment offers, artistic evenings, musical concerts, and incredible winning opportunities for participants every day of the festival.
123 Festival
For shopping, music, and entertainment enthusiasts, the 123 Festival offers visitors an unforgettable experience as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Dubai Shopping Festival.
A large lineup of artists will perform two fantastic evenings on December 6 and 8 at the Coca-Cola Arena.
Coke Studio Concert
On December 8, enjoy exceptional musical performances by South Asian stars. Among the highlights is Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan, who launched this music platform in Pakistan in 2008. Other artists include Kaifi Khalil and Abdul Hanan.
Drone Light Shows
Spectacular drone shows by Emirates Petroleum will light up Dubai’s skies during the shopping festival. Catch them daily from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025, at Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR, where 1,000 drones will perform two unique shows at 8 PM and 10 PM, accompanied by enchanting music.
Enjoy stunning artistic displays created by the drones in the sky, inspired by Dubai’s spirit and achievements, with scenes of skydiving and unique views of the Dubai Eye in an exceptional visual spectacle.
X Factor
The X Factor stage, where dreams come true and success stories begin, will captivate you with breathtaking voices. Watch this premier Arab entertainment program on Dubai TV in collaboration with the 30th Dubai Shopping Festival. Don’t miss the live shows at Dubai The Festival City Mall will be open every Sunday from December 8, 2024, until January 12, 2025.
Fireworks Displays
Celebrate 30 years of the Dubai Shopping Festival with stunning fireworks displays every day from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025, at Dubai Festival City Mall and Hatta. Special New Year’s Eve displays will take place at Al Seef, Bluewaters Island, and The Beach, JBR.
Dubai Lights
Discover spectacular interactive light installations at five unique locations during the Dubai Festival. Now in its fourth season, Dubai Lights offers artistic experiences inspired by the five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and spirit, at Al Seef, Marmoom, Bluewaters Island, and Dubai Design District.
Majid’s Blue Millionaire
The Dubai Shopping Festival at Dubai Festival City Mall offers 38 days of fun and shopping, with daily prizes worth up to AED 10,000 for members of the Blue loyalty program. Are you not currently a member of the Blue loyalty program? Download the Yello app, register, and spend AED 300 or more on participating brands between December 6 and January 12 for a chance to win.
Cocomelon Live
Take your kids to the Coca-Cola Arena on December 20 and 21 for the live show “Cocomelon: Sing Along with Us.” Join Ms. Appleberry, JJ, and friends on a fun musical adventure with famous songs like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “Wheels on the Bus.”
Gold Vouchers Worth AED 1.5 Million
Win up to AED 1.5 million in gold vouchers! Spend AED 1,500 or more at participating jewelry stores to enter the draw. Every week, three lucky winners will receive shopping vouchers worth AED 100,000 from the Dubai Gold Group.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Celebrate the festive season at Madinat Jumeirah’s market starting December 6, featuring a 36-foot-tall Christmas tree, family activities, delicious foods, live music, and beautifully decorated rides.
Win a New Car
Win one of the latest Nissan cars during the Dubai Shopping Festival! Purchase a raffle ticket for AED 100 and enter the draw to win a new car or a cash prize of AED 100,000.
Theatrical Performances
Enjoy the theatrical show “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” at Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, from December 20 to 24, offering a heartwarming story with enchanting music and effects, perfect for families.
Tips for enjoying the Dubai Festival
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Plan Your Visit Early
Check out the festival’s schedule and prioritize the events and activities you want to participate in.
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Book Early
Early booking of flights and hotels ensures better rates and avoids a last-minute rush.
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Use Dubai’s Public Transport
Utilize Dubai’s efficient public transport system to avoid traffic and conveniently reach your destinations.
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Take advantage of offers and discounts
Don’t miss the fantastic shopping discounts, with reductions of up to 75% on some brands.
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Pack suitable clothing for Dubai’s weather
Dubai’s weather during December and January is mild. Carry light, comfortable clothing and a jacket for cooler evenings.
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Enjoy local dining!
Explore food stalls and restaurants at the festival offering a variety of cuisines for all tastes.
Best Hotels to Stay at During the Dubai Festival Season
One of the highlights of the Dubai Festival is the Dubai Shopping Festival, offering numerous deals on top-notch products and global brands. Here are some of the most luxurious 5-star hotels in Dubai, located near popular markets and malls participating in the annual shopping festival:
You can easily reach the Mall of the Emirates within minutes, just 900 meters away.
Mall of the Emirates is just 400 meters away, a short two-minute walk away.
Only 600 meters separate Rove Downtown from Dubai Mall, making it accessible in 3 minutes by car.
Atlantis The Palm is located 15 km away from Ibn Battuta Mall, and it’s even closer to Global Village and Gold Souk.
The hotel is situated approximately 16 km away from Gold Souk and 13 km away from Mall of the Emirates.
The Palm is situated 16 km away from the Mall of the Emirates, 18 km away from Gold Souk, and 17 km away from Ibn Battuta Mall.
Fairmont The Palm is located 13 km from Gold Souk, 22 km from Dubai Mall, and 11 km from Mall of the Emirates.
Conclusion
The Dubai Festival offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in an unforgettable month in the welcoming city of Dubai. December in Dubai is incredibly special, featuring major events, activities, and celebrations culminating in New Year’s Eve festivities.
The Dubai Shopping Festival is an unmatched shopping extravaganza in the region, with entertainment, dining, and delightful weather making your vacation in Dubai remarkable and unique.