Dubai’s annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is set to return in December 2025 with a packed program of entertainment, including a headline performance by Bollywood star Nora Fatehi and a spectacular new drone and pyrotechnic show. The festival, a major driver of tourism and retail sales, promises a diverse range of experiences across the city. This year’s DSF aims to build on previous successes with innovative attractions and established favorites.
e& DSF Nights to Feature Nora Fatehi and Fireworks
Nora Fatehi will be the main attraction at e& DSF Nights, a daily entertainment series held at Dubai Festival City Mall. Fatehi, known for her energetic dance routines and captivating stage presence, is scheduled to perform live on December 6, 2025. The evening’s entertainment will be enhanced by a firework display over Festival Bay, beginning at 8:30 PM.
Beyond the headline performance, e& DSF Nights will offer interactive zones, engaging installations, and outdoor attractions designed to appeal to all ages. Organizers intend to create a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere throughout the festival period. Ticket sales for e& DSF Nights are currently underway via PlatinumList.net, with early bird pricing starting at Dh50.
Adventure and Artistic Experiences in Hatta
For visitors seeking an escape from the city, DSF will once again bring outdoor experiences to the Hatta mountains. Building on the success of last year, Hatta Wadi Hub will host a combination of concerts, dining options, and an open-air cinema.
Candlelight Concerts and Dinner in the Sky
Candlelight Concerts by Fever will offer unique open-air performances against the backdrop of the Hatta mountains. The concerts will feature music from composers like Vivaldi and contemporary artists such as Coldplay. Tickets begin at Dh70, with free admission for children aged eight and under for a dedicated children’s concert on December 13.
A new addition to the Hatta offerings is Dinner in the Sky, which will lift diners 50 meters into the air for a meal with panoramic mountain views. This exclusive experience is priced at Dh300 per person. Families can also enjoy films in an outdoor dome cinema, providing another entertainment option in the mountain setting.
New Drone and Pyro Show to Illuminate the Dubai Skyline
A key highlight of DSF 2025 is the debut of the DSF Drone and Pyro Show. The show will feature over 1,000 drones, including 100 equipped with pyrotechnics, performing two nightly displays. The spectacle is designed to blend technology, art, and music, accompanied by a Dubai-inspired soundtrack composed by Academy Award-winning Hans Zimmer.
The displays aim to transform the Dubai skyline into a dynamic canvas, celebrating the city’s innovative spirit. Thousands of synchronized lights will create a visually stunning experience for residents and tourists alike. This event is expected to be a major draw for visitors during the festival.
Additional Concerts and Prize Opportunities
Two further major concerts are planned for Coca-Cola Arena and the e& DSF Nights venue, with announcements expected in the coming weeks. The festival is also known for offering substantial prizes throughout its duration, encouraging participation and boosting retail activity. The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) anticipates a significant economic impact from the 2025 edition of the festival.
Looking ahead, the DFRE will focus on finalizing the details of the remaining concerts and promotional campaigns. The success of the festival will depend on factors such as tourism numbers and consumer spending. Further details regarding prize draws and specific retail promotions are expected to be released closer to the festival’s launch date in December 2025.