e& Market Outside The Box returns this week; here's what to expect

MOTB for the win…

Dubai Shopping Festival is back, and with it returns everyone’s favourite outdoor market, Market Outside The Box, Dubai Design District’s beloved winter activation. This year marks the 12th edition of the market, which will be running from January 3 to 12, 2025. It promises 10 days of unique fashion finds, fabulous brand pop-ups with plenty of freebies, hip entertainment, and the opportunity to sample your way around the flavours of some of Dubai’s most delicious – and viral – restaurants.

This year’s theme is dedicated to the madness and joy of Gen Z culture. The Neo-Vintage theme sees the clashing of cutting edge trends with nostalgic charm, the new and old coming together to promise something for everyone. Coupled with never-before-seen immersive experience, and all the usual entertainment, it’s set to be an unforgettable edition of one of Dubai Shopping Festival’s best-loved expereinces.

The Shopping

Some 56 brand new retail vendors will be on display, showcasing the latest trends, coolest merch, and biggest regional names in streetwear, sportswear and accessories. Whether it’s a vintage tee, customised treads, or a throwback cap, you’ll be able to shop it all at the retail market. This epic shopping experience is unlike any other, teeming with unique finds and exclusive treasures that you and your mates will love.

The dining

This trendy 10-day festival isn’t just about the shopping, there’s plenty of culinary pop-ups to look forward to, and this year will see two dozen new additons for you to sample your way around. The city’s coolest F&B brands will all gather in one space, inviting you to dine around the world on sweet and savoury treats as you shop. There’s the talabat exclusive diner, where a diverse array of naughty and nice treats are all served up in one Instagrammable setting, from healthy bowls to Asian-fusion creations. Plus, you can look forward to globally renowned big hitters in the world of fast-casual food, with Mexican joint Chipotle and the beloved Nashville hit Dave’s Hot Chicken both making their MOTB debut for this season.

Get creative in the kitchen and build your own burger with Munch Burger’s fun activation, or head to FlatBurger to check out their exclusive creation with Emirati chef Sheikha Hessa Al Khalifa.

The Entertainment

Beyond shopping and dining MOTB’s main stage will play host to an array of activations, and hourly live entertainment invites you perch up and enjoy the vibes. There will be fitness activities for those looking to break a sweat, and open-air concerts for music lovers.

On the opening weekend, a free, open-air concert will take over on Saturday January 3 with headline sets from global artists Saint Levant and Naïka.

More creative fun will come at pop-ups from The Smash Room, where you can beat your January blues with a little stress-relief at their mobile Smash Room; or create your very own masterpiece at Wild Paint House’s fun-filled activation.

The best of the rest

A Beauty Bloc pop-up will showcase the newest and best drops from all your favourite beauty brands, like regional icon Huda Beauty, to classics like Drunk Elephant and Benefit. For more from the best in the beauty business, stop by Shiseido for an engaging beauty experience that will showcase the brand’s sought-after beauty and skincare staples.

Rev your engines at the Nissan corner, with immersive automotive experiences promising thrilling moments for car lovers.

e& MOTB, Dubai Design District (d3), Dubai, Jan 3 to 12,4pm to 10pm Mon to Thurs, 4pm to 12am Fri, 12pm to 12am Sat and Sun, free entry. @dubaifestivals