Dubai Shopping Festival 2024: Where to watch DSF fireworks, drone shows, light displays, and events

Compiled by Lekshmy Pavithran, Assistant Online EditorDubai: The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) celebrates its 30th anniversary this year with dazzling experiences from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025. This landmark edition promises a spectacular winter filled with unforgettable experiences across 38 action-packed days.

From breathtaking fireworks and drone shows to artistic light displays and star-studded concerts, DSF has something for everyone.

The skies over Dubai will ignite with vibrant fireworks displays throughout the festival:

Each show features the exclusive DSF soundtrack, “Dubai Kawkab Akhir” by Rashed Al Majed, adding a musical touch to the breathtaking visuals.

The DSF Drone Show returns, lighting up the Dubai sky nightly from December 6 to January 12. The show will take place every night at Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR, with performances at 8pm and 10pm. The show features 1000 drones and two new performances with original compositions and music.

The first show, from December 6-26, celebrates DSF's 30th anniversary with drone formations and visuals highlighting three decades of the festival. The second show, starting December 27, combines tradition and modernity, with drones telling a story through visuals of Dubai landmarks. Special shows on 13 December and 11 January will include pyro drones and skydivers.

Experience interactive light art installations inspired by the five elements (Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit) at Al Seef, Al Marmoom, Bluewaters, Hatta, Dubai Design District (d3), plus additional locations like City Walk, Kite Beach, Nakheel Mall, and Palm West Beach. Explore creativity and innovation as Dubai’s most stunning landmarks transform into glowing masterpieces.

Visitors can journey through these light installations at various iconic locations, each offering a unique experience blending art, technology, and Dubai's natural beauty.

To celebrate DSF's 30th anniversary, additional Dubai Lights installations will adorn the city:

Experience 38 nights of entertainment at Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall, from December 6 to January 12, 2025. The event features concerts by Arab artists, live X Factor performances, and DSF-themed IMAGINE shows.

Every Saturday, enjoy performances from Arab musicians. Ahmed Saad performed on opening night (6 December), followed by Shamma Hamdan on 7 December. Other confirmed artists include Diana Haddad and Yara. Concerts are free with Blue Rewards membership.

X Factor live shows will take place every Sunday at 10:30pm, featuring global talent, with the performances broadcast on Dubai TV. Festival Bay also features IMAGINE shows, fireworks, and DSF Mega Raffle draws (Monday to Friday at 8:30pm).

Discover the city’s trendiest dining spots, from pop-up restaurants to food trucks. Highlights include:

Enjoy unbeatable discounts and shopping deals throughout the festival. DSF’s grand raffles offer daily opportunities to win rewards and mega prizes throughout the festival. The DSF Mega Raffle will give away a brand new Nissan vehicle—either a Nissan X-Trail, Nissan Xterra, Nissan Safari, Nissan Kicks, or Nissan Altima—to one winner every day. In addition, each winner will also receive Dh100,000 in cash. Every ticket holder will be entered into a second draw, where one lucky winner will receive an all-new Nissan Patrol each week.

Whether you’re shopping, exploring art, or enjoying family-friendly entertainment, DSF 2024 promises a season like no other. Mark your calendars and experience the magic of Dubai’s biggest celebration!

📍 When: Dec 6, 2024 – Jan 12, 2025

📍 Where: Across Dubai