Dubai Shopping Festival 2025-26

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), held annually since 1996, is a month-long celebration blending massive retail discounts with entertainment and culture. Running from mid-December to late January, it coincides with Dubai’s best weather and features sales across luxury malls and traditional souks. What makes DSF unique is its mix of shopping, nightly fireworks, live shows, and cultural events that highlight both the city’s heritage and modern flair.

When to Visit the Dubai Shopping Festival

• DSF 2025–2026 Dates: Expected to run from around 15th December 2025 to the end of January 2026.
• Official Announcement: Exact dates are usually released 3-4 months in advance.
• Duration: Spans around 40 days.

Best Time During DSF for Shopping

• Mid-December: The first week with opening events is held, followed by a soft launch of discounts. The crowd is quite moderate; therefore, perfect to shop without any rush.
• Late December: Maximum discounting period; heaviest retailer activity. Expect huge crowds and the best bargains.
• Early January: Vacation time and late shopping hours, at the store with special New Year programming.
• Final week: Last-minute sales including further discounting on any stocks left.

Planning Your DSF Trip Timeline

• 3-4 months before: Monitor official DSF announcements for dates and book accommodations early for better rates.
• 2 months before: Secure Dubai shopping festival hotel packages and plan your itinerary around specific events.
• 1 month before: Download DSF mobile apps, register for prize draws, and create your shopping priority list.

What Discounts to Expect

• Discounts: The discount varies between 25 to 75% across categories.
• Fashion: 30-50% off on international brands, local shops and mainframe stores.
• Electronics: You can get great bargains on electronics and appliances in stores such as Carrefour and Lulu.
• Jewellery: Excellent prices on gold, diamonds and luxury watches at the Gold Souk and up-to-date stores.
• Home & Lifestyle: Up to 40% off on decor and furniture as well as lifestyle products of the leading brands.

Prize Draws and Rewards

• Daily Prize Draws: Win up to AED 150,000 with eligible purchases.
• Top Prizes: Luxury cars, gold, cash, and travel packages.
• Extras: Instant-win coupons and cashback at select stores.

• Luxury Fashion & Accessories: Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates host major international brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton with rare DSF discounts. It’s also a great time to explore regional designers and Middle Eastern fashion at competitive prices.
• Electronics & Tech: DSF tech deals often beat Black Friday, with top offers on smartphones, laptops, and gaming gear. The tax-free advantage, festival discounts, and perks like extended warranties make it perfect for big tech buys.
• Gold & Jewellery: As a global gold hub, Dubai shines during DSF with offers on everything from traditional designs in Deira’s Gold Souk to modern pieces in upscale stores. Many jewellers provide custom options and festival-exclusive pricing.
• Souvenirs & Handicrafts: Cultural markets offer authentic Emirati goods—spices, textiles, and art. Al Seef is a must-visit during DSF, blending heritage shopping with live cultural experiences.

• Fireworks and Light Shows: Enjoy fireworks every night at hotspots such as Dubai Festival City, Al Seef, and Dubai Marina. There are different themes every week and different viewing points, promenades, and rooftops.
• Culture Shows: Experience global performances at Dubai Opera and Coca-Cola Arena, and cultural performances every day in the region of Al Seef, covering such crafts as souvenirs, historic displays, and Emirati customs.
• Family Friendly Fun: DSF has kid zones, fun activities, and workshops which are spread in malls. Dubai Parks and Resorts also comes on board with longer hours and festival offers.

Accommodation Costs: Hotel prices rise 20-40% during DSF. Book 2–3 months early for better deals.

• Mid-range: AED 300-500/night
• Luxury: AED 800-1,500/night
• Budget Tip: Consider serviced apartments or vacation rentals for longer stays.

Shopping Budget:

• Conservative: AED 2,000-5,000 for select items
• Moderate: AED 5,000-10,000 for variety
• Luxury: AED 10,000+ for designer brands and premium buys
• Note: Add extra for food, transport, and entertainment.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Shop early for the best deals and exclusive offers
• Look for group and family discounts
• Join loyalty programs in advance
• Understand tax refund rules to claim savings as a tourist

Check out: Top 5-star hotels in Dubai

1. Dubai Mall: The heart of DSF is with 1,200+ stores, extended hours, and exclusive events.
   1. Must-sees: Fashion Avenue, electronics megastores, in-mall Gold Souk
   2. Experiences: Themed Dubai Fountain shows, brand pop-ups, DSF dining deals across 200+ restaurants
2. Mall of the Emirates: Shop top brands and enjoy indoor skiing at Ski Dubai.
   1. Highlights: DSF bundles for snow fun + shopping, luxury fashion, VOX Cinemas, Magic Planet for family fun
3. Souks & Heritage Spots: Immerse yourself in old Dubai's traditional markets and crafts.
   1. Gold Souk: Authentic jewellery at competitive rates
   2. Spice & Textile Souks: Middle Eastern spices, fabrics
   3. Al Seef: A charming mix of heritage shopping and waterside dining
4. Dubai Marina & JBR: Outdoor shopping with a beach vibe.
   1. What to expect: Resort wear boutiques, beachside dining, DSF events, and water sports

• Metro: Fast, budget-friendly access to major malls and souks
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Easily available, but may have surge pricing during peak hours
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer free rides to key shopping spots

Tips for Traffic & Crowds

• Expect traffic near malls, especially on weekends and evenings
• Shop during off-peak hours for a smoother experience
• Use valet or extended parking at malls for convenience

Dubai Shopping Festival 2025–2026 is more than a sale; it’s a vibrant cultural celebration paired with unbeatable retail deals, entertainment, and prizes. Held during Dubai’s pleasant winter, it’s the perfect time to combine vacation with value shopping. To make the most of DSF, plan, book early and prioritise your wish list. Whether you’re after luxury brands, traditional crafts, or unique experiences, DSF caters to every kind of shopper. Book your Dubai tour package, buy an empty suitcase and simply arrive in this beautiful country!