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Fireworks Fiesta
As Dubai gears up to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), the city is set to dazzle with breathtaking fireworks displays that promise to leave you in awe. From December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025, the night skies across the emirate will come alive with vibrant bursts of color.
The festivities kick off at Dubai Festival City Mall, where the magic will unfold nightly at 9 PM. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the festive ambiance, the displays promise a visual treat for all. For those seeking a more tranquil escape, the majestic mountains of Hatta offer a serene backdrop for DSF Fireworks Nights. Every Friday and Saturday until January 4, 2025, the Hatta Sign becomes the canvas for spellbinding displays starting at 8 PM.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, the celebrations reach a crescendo. At Al Seef, the fireworks become even more special, with a heritage-rich setting featuring traditional dhows and centuries-old architecture, best enjoyed from one of the district’s many picturesque restaurants. For those who prefer the charm of coastal scenery, Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR offer equally thrilling fireworks displays to ring in the new year.
Entertainment Wonderland
From December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025, Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City Mall is your go-to spot for 38 nights of thrilling entertainment. Every Saturday, catch free concerts from big-name Arab artists. Sundays turn up the excitement with X Factor live shows, where global talents battle it out in front of celebrity judges for a shot at stardom.
Enjoy dazzling DSF fireworks every weekend, synchronized to Rashed Al Majed’s iconic Dubai Kawkab Akhir. Feeling lucky? The DSF Mega Raffle, held Monday to Friday at 8:30 PM, could make you a winner of a car and AED 100,000 in cash.
Food enthusiasts, don’t miss Helipad by Frozen Cherry for live music and stunning city views, or explore Sayf Dubai—a neon-lit outdoor venue with global cuisine and live performances open daily until April 2025. Add to that pop-up food trucks and trendy eateries, and you’ve got the perfect mix of food, fun, and fireworks.
Gastronomic Galore
This festive season, Dubai’s top hotels and restaurants are pulling out all the stops with irresistible dining deals. Atlantis, The Palm is hosting special festive menus at Bread Street Kitchen and Ossiano, while Atlantis The Royal brings you curated festive experiences at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and La Mar by Gaston Acurio on 24-25 December, 2024. Over at Jumeirah Al Qasr, La Promenade offers brunch and dinner deals, and Kempinski’s Olea is hosting a family-friendly brunch with live entertainment. Looking for beachfront vibes? Head to Tamoka for a Caribbean-inspired brunch or SLS Dubai’s Carna for a roast lunch with all the trimmings. Don’t miss out on British classics at Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen or the festive spreads at Dubai Creek Resort, featuring buffets and live cooking stations across multiple venues. There are also 106 MICHELIN-recognized restaurants, including four with two stars. From street eats to gourmet delights, the city’s food halls and tours, like Frying Pan Adventures’ souk and creekside walks, offer flavors from around the world. It’s the ultimate destination for global gastronomy. So, with something for every taste, the season is packed with deals you won’t want to miss.
Shopping Extravaganza
The 30th DSF is set to light up the city with incredible shopping and life-changing prizes. Dubai transforms into a shopping paradise with unbeatable deals and exclusive promotions. Iconic retail destinations like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates will feature special events and themed decorations, creating an unparalleled shopping atmosphere. For those seeking a more traditional experience, a visit to the bustling souks of Old Dubai—such as the Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk—is a must, offering unique finds and the chance to haggle for bespoke pieces, fine fabrics, and exotic spices. Plus, the community-led Ripe Market at Dubai Police Academy Park will showcase handmade crafts and artisanal products, adding a touch of festive charm. Whether you’re shopping for luxury items or special gifts, DSF promises a shopping experience that caters to every taste and budget.
Special Stay Packages
Dubai is pulling out all the stops this festive season, with luxury hotels across the city offering special holiday experiences that are sure to wow.
At The Lana in Business Bay, get ready to be charmed by their mouth-watering chocolate installation at The Gallery. The Dorchester Collection’s flagship is hosting festive stays, lively events, and dining delights across its restaurants and lounges. Head to Atlantis, The Palm on Palm Jumeirah for the full holiday experience. Known for its iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations, Atlantis is going all out with special stay packages. Book five nights or more to enjoy a complimentary festive dinner at one of their buffet restaurants. A 10-night stay over the holiday season includes both Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve dinner packages.
The Jumeirah Group, a homegrown luxury brand, is also in on the action, offering festive stays at its top properties, including the iconic Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Jumeirah Al Qasr. Aspen Café will transform into a Christmas market, bringing holiday cheer all season long.
For a whimsical experience, visit The Lounge at Park Hyatt Dubai in Dubai Creek Resort starting December 6, 2024. The space will turn into a gingerbread wonderland, where kids can decorate their own gingerbread house to take home. The SLS Dubai in Business Bay has its own festive charm from December 4, 2024 to January 7, 2025 with the 71st floor, S Bar, becoming La Chalet and a Gingerbread House. Don’t miss the light switch-on event on December 12, 2024 where the Sky Lobby will sparkle with decorations and lights. For a desert twist, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort offers starlit desert feasts, daily festive afternoon teas, and gingerbread decorating at Ya Hala Lobby Lounge, creating unforgettable memories under the stars.
Whether you’re after a luxury stay, holiday festivities, or unique desert experiences, Dubai’s top hotels are ready to make this festive season one to remember.
