Nightly fireworks to dazzle Dubai this DSF season from Friday

Free shows across the city promise festive nights from Dec 5, 2025 to Jan 11, 2026

Last updated: December 04, 2025 | 19:04

Balaram Menon, Senior Web Editor

2 MIN READ

Festival City, Hatta and more host spectacular fireworks displays all month long.

Dubai is gearing up for more than a month of nightly fireworks as the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) returns with a citywide celebration from December 5, 2025 to January 11,2026.

Brought to the public by Al Zarooni Group, the displays promise a season of free entertainment for residents and visitors looking to embrace the festive spirit.

Festival City kicks off the season

The first bursts of colour will illuminate the sky above Dubai Festival City Mall, where daily shows begin at 8:30pm throughout the 38-day festival. With the waterfront acting as a natural amphitheatre, the venue is expected to draw large crowds seeking a lively evening out.

Also Read: Dubai readies dazzling citywide festivities for New Year’s Eve

A peaceful escape to Hatta

For those wanting a quieter experience, DSF x Hatta Wadi Hub offers a serene mountain backdrop for its free fireworks every Friday and Saturday at 8pm until December 31. A special New Year’s Eve display will take place at midnight, lighting up the Hajar Mountains in a spectacular finale.

Also Read: New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Fireworks to desert escapes — how to ring in 2026

Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve

As the countdown to 2026 begins, DSF Fireworks Nights will take over multiple iconic locations:

Dubai Festival City Mall: Expect dazzling midnight fireworks as part of the e& DSF Nights programme.
Hatta: Crowds will gather by the Hatta Sign for a dramatic mountaintop display.
Souk Al Seef: Waterfront restaurants and historic architecture create a picturesque backdrop for the celebrations.
Bluewaters and The Beach JBR: Ideal for those seeking beachside views and vibrant dining spots.

Fireworks schedule:

December 5, 2025 to January 11,2026: Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall — 8:30pm
December 5–6, 12–13, 19–20, 26–27: Hatta sign — 8pm
December 31: Souk Al Seef, Hatta, Bluewaters, The Beach JBR — 11:59pm

Balaram MenonSenior Web Editor

Balaram brings more than two decades of experience in the media industry, combining sharp editorial judgment with a deep understanding of digital news dynamics. Since 2004, he has been a core member of the gulfnews.com digital team, playing a key role in shaping its identity. Passionate about current affairs, politics, cricket, entertainment, and viral content, Balaram thrives on stories that spark conversation. His strength lies in adapting to the fast-changing news landscape and curating compelling content that resonates with readers.