From the best bargains to family fun, here’s our guide to the month of DSF…

We’ve had our diaries marked since November, and on December 26, the 23rd annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) kicks off across Dubai.

But there’s not just discounts and deals to look forward to – there’s plenty of activities, family entertainment and foodie pop-ups happening throughout the month.

Here’s our ultimate guide to making the most of DSF…

Bag a bargain with the DSF Pass

Tourists and residents can visit top attractions and eat at the best restaurants across Dubai with up to 65 per cent off with the DSF pass. There’s various tiers of options, from three experiences up to three days of unlimited activities. Places taking part include La Perle, Aquaventure Waterpark and Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera.

Shop till you drop with a 12-hour sale

Starting at 12pm on December 26 and running until midnight, bargain hunters can take advantage of discounts of up to 90 per cent at some of Dubai’s biggest malls. Participating malls include Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Deira, plus, for every Dhs300 spent, customers will enter a draw to win a Dhs50,000 cash prize.

Watch the fireworks

On December 26, 28 and 29, plus every weekend throughout January and on the closing day of the festival, you’ll be able to catch fireworks displays at 8.30pm at Al Seef, 9pm at La Mer and 9.30pm on The Beach at JBR.

Seize the best deals

Every Friday throughout DSF, there will be a ‘Friday Surprise’ with an exclusive retail product or range sold at a discount price at a specified shopping location.

Go to an outdoor cinema

As part of their ‘Festive on the River’ celebrations, Riverland Dubai will have an outdoor cinema screening the season’s favourite movies on a daily basis until January 6, with free entry to the festivities.

Visit an al fresco market

shopping-fest

Independent market Outside The Box is returning to Burj Park from January 11 to 20. It will host an array of shopping pop-ups showcasing emerging designers, as well as a programme of activities including onstage performances from live bands and DJs, evening yoga classes, and the chance to catch the latest documentaries at the outside cinema.

Go to a concert

Arabic music legends Mohammed Mounir and Magda El Roumi will perform at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre this DSF on January 19 and 26 respectively. Tickets will be available on dubaicalendar.com.

Experience unique light and musical shows

The newly-opened Al Seef shopping district will play host to a series of light and musical shows, including The Lighting Fairies and Light Umbrella, as part of its Layali Al Seef programme of events.

Dubai Shopping Festival, December 26 to January 27, various malls, attractions and outlets across Dubai. More info on Visit Dubai.

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