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Dubai, the glittering jewel of the Middle East, is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year – the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). From December 8, 2023, to January 14, 2024, this shopping extravaganza promises an unparalleled retail and entertainment experience that attracts visitors from all corners of the world. With its unique blend of fashion, food, and entertainment, offering daily deals, raffle draws, competitions, outdoor markets, and exclusive pop-up experiences, DSF 2023-24 is set to be a celebration of luxury and culture.

Musical Extravaganza

Among the festival’s highlights will be The Kid LAROI live at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 8. The artist will showcase a lineup of his major hits alongside English DJ Jonas Blue. Bollywood will also take center stage on December 10, featuring acclaimed artists Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, and Abhijeet Bhattacharya in a live performance at the Coca-Cola Arena. This enthralling concert, hosted by the renowned Indian singer Aditya Narayan, promises an unforgettable experience. The British comedian Russell Howard will perform on December 11, at Dubai Opera. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance to enjoy these.

In a never-happened-before collaboration, Sole DXB, a well-known festival that celebrates lifestyle and street culture, has teamed up with DSF to commemorate 50 years of Hip Hop, offering live music acts, exciting basketball matches, enlightening discussions, exclusive shopping experiences, and immersive art exhibits. This blend of music and urban culture promises to ignite one’s enthusiasm. Be sure not to miss Sole DXB happening from December 8 to 10 in the Dubai Design District.

Also on that weekend is the EarthSoul Festival, the UAE’s first and premier eco-conscious music and art festival, which will feature Pakistani artists, including Shae Gill and Young Stunners, taking place, at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. Festival goers can look forward to informative workshops, panel discussions, and wellness and art classes.

Retail Heaven

DSF shoppers can explore a range of retail destinations, from The Dubai Mall, City Walk, Dubai Festival City Mall to Lulu Village, Gold Souk, Nakheel Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, and Dubai Outlet Mall to avail unbeatable deals and year-round sales. For instance, The Dubai Mall houses 1,200 retailers including well-known high-street brands including H&M and Zara, alongside department stores, Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette. Delve into the world of luxury labels nestled within the Fashion Avenue, an exclusive mall section adored by couture enthusiasts. Dubai Festival City Mall has more than 400 brands under one roof including a massive IKEA furniture store and other international brands.

The festival showcases exclusive collections, runway shows, and even workshops by acclaimed designers. From haute couture to street style, it has something for every fashion-forward visitor. Majid Al Futtaim will also be joining the DSF celebrations at the Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, and City Centre Mirdif, offering exciting deals, special promotions and prizes.

For those who wish to opt for unique, localised and family-friendly experiences, Global Village, Al Rigga Street, Night Souk, and Al Fahidi are must-visit to look out for. The shopping experiences offer an array of traditional and contemporary clothing, jewelry, vibrant spices, electronics, and accessories from around the world.

Gastronomic Bliss

Dubai’s culinary scene thrives during DSF as the festival celebrates the city’s diversity through an assortment of gastronomic delights, ranging from traditional Arabic dishes and homegrown favorites to international cuisines prepared by renowned chefs. Take a break from shopping to fuel up on food at the malls, across hotels and beyond to enjoy a variety of cuisine, including Thai, Japanese, and Korean. Don’t forget to make a stop at the food trucks with innovative gastronomic ideas, and cafes offering experiential moments for Instagram-worthy photos. It’s an opportunity to savor the world’s diverse flavors without leaving Dubai. Each day during DSF is exciting, with unforgettable concerts, outdoor activities, culinary delights, spectacular fireworks, and amazing raffles.

For more information, visit: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dsf

This content is produced in collaboration with Dubai Economy and Tourism Department and is not associated with or reflective of the views of Images and Dawn.com or its editorial staff.