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Gulf Business
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Dubai Summer Surprises 2025: A look inside the 66-day shopping experience
Image credit: Supplied The 28th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) officially commenced on June 27, 2025, bringing an impressive array of deals, entertainment, and free activities across the emirate. Organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), this year's event spans a solid 66 days, running until 31 August. It promises a summer filled with preeminent shopping discounts, headline concerts, cultural activations, family-focused attractions, and spectacular prizes. Read- 'DSS 2025 is the most diverse edition to date, anchored around three specially curated shopping seasons,' states Suhaila Ghubash, vice president of Festivals and Events at DFRE (Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment). 'We've introduced new concepts like the 10 Dirham Dish, DSS Gahwa Beats, and an expanded schedule of indoor mall runs—while bringing back signature experiences such as Beat The Heat, Summer Restaurant Week, Modesh World, DSS Entertainer, citywide concerts, and offers across hotels, attractions, and spas.' Three-phase shopping strategy sustains momentum For the first time, DSS adopts a three-season shopping model, dubbed Summer Holiday Offers, the Great Dubai Summer Sale, and Back to School—to maintain shopper engagement throughout the lengthier festival. The first phase, Summer Holiday Offers, runs until 17 July, featuring up to 75 per cent off across hundreds of brands, exclusive giveaways, surprise pop-ups, enticing dining deals, and engaging entertainment. Shoppers and visitors enjoy continuous activations across shopping malls, hotels, and attractions. 'This segmented shopping model guarantees fresh, high-value offers throughout the festival,' explains Ghubash. 'It ensures residents and tourists have multiple reasons to rediscover Dubai, whether for a staycation, a family outing, or a weekend splurge.' Free events and cultural entertainment across the city One of DSS's hallmarks is its complimentary programming, well represented this year through extensive free entertainment and activations. The festival's grand opening weekend set the tone: Dubai Festival City Mall hosted performances by the Japanese dance collective Sabrina and Palestinian-Jordanian pop singer Reina Khoury on June 27. The following day, Abri & the Band, along with singer-songwriter Noel Kharman, took to the stage. City Centre Mirdif hosted Syrian vocalist Al Shami and Jordanian indie-rock band Jadal, while colorful street performers roamed nearby venues. The immersive cultural showcase offered families and visitors a vibrant and accessible way to engage with live arts. Signature promotions return with bold enhancements Many of DSS's popular experiences return in amplified form. Foremost is the DSS Entertainer, offering over 7,500 Buy-One-Get-One-Free deals across iconic venues, spanning dining, brunches, delivery services, attractions, spas, fitness outlets, and lifestyle brands. Each purchase grants three-month unlimited access with daily redemptions. Participating outlets include Wild Wadi, Motiongate Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Shake Shack, STK, Asia Asia, Black Tap, Real Madrid World, Bounce, Le Pain Quotidien, Café Bateel, and many more. Beyond BOGO offers, DSS 2025 introduces fresh concepts: the 10 Dirham Dish delivers budget gastronomic options; DSS Gahwa Beats explores coffee and music culture; and expanded indoor mall runs ensure air-conditioned excitement, essential for summer comfort—and extended entertainment stays. Expanded of the festival footprint Suhaila Ghubash highlights that this year's edition is both broader and deeper in scale: 'We've enlisted additional indoor venues, expanded mall programming, and overhauled signature activations to enrich diversity and reach.' Core DSS staples, including Beat The Heat, Summer Restaurant Week, Modesh World, and a comprehensive live-concert circuit, have been upgraded. The festival now spans more venues and features a broader selection of artists, cuisines, and family programming. 66-day duration: A strategic move Spanning 66 days, DSS 2025 holds the title of its longest-running edition so far. This extended timeframe is strategically aligned to maintain consumer, tourism, and economic momentum throughout Dubai's summer. Ghubash underscores its benefits: 'Running DSS over 66 days allows the city to maintain steady retail and tourism momentum and to offer flexible opportunities for families and visitors to engage with the programme at their convenience. Every day brings something new—from retail offers and live entertainment to cultural activities and immersive experiences.' The extended schedule lets participants stagger visits, plan around school holidays, or revisit favourite offerings without the rush of a condensed schedule. Massive giveaways and grand prizes The festival's prize structure escalates this year, with high-value draws fueling excitement. Highlights include: 1 million SHARE points at all Majid Al Futtaim malls. 1 million AURA points across numerous citywide brands. Dhs10,000 in Tickit points awarded randomly. A brand-new Polestar 4 LRSM at Dubai Festival City Mall. A Soueast S06 SUV at Dubai Outlet Mall. Daily cash prizes via Slide Into Summer Surprises at Mercato and Town Centre Jumeirah. The Shop. Win. Drive. campaign at Dubai Festival Plaza awards six brand-new SUVs and spot prizes of Dhs5,000 each to twenty winners. Instant-win activations throughout malls and attractions. 'These initiatives are designed to strengthen visitor engagement and elevate the excitement of DSS 2025,' says Ghubash. 'Combining prizes with value offers sustains interest and underpins consumer participation throughout the summer.' A powerful loyalty infrastructure complements DSS's attraction-based engagement. Tickit auto-enrolls every spend in lucky draws, while AURA and SHARE Millionaire programs reward point accumulation, culminating in million-point bonanzas. Residents and tourists can thus enjoy immediate gratification through vouchers and long-term rewards via loyalty programs—curating continued interest in DSS activities. Family-centric camps bring cultural enrichment In addition to retail and entertainment, DSS 2025 emphasizes creative, educational camps for children: Burst of Imagination, an arts programme at Al Jalila Cultural Centre. Heritage-led workshops and leadership development at Etihad Museum and Al Shindagha Museum. Archaeological and experiential learning sessions at Children's City, hosted by Dubai Municipality. Regular holiday camps—institutional and boutique—throughout August. These offerings enable families to combine educational enrichment with entertainment, all within the DSS framework. Modesh and Dana delight younger fans Central to DSS's charm are mascots Modesh and Dana, who animate the festival's family zone and beyond. Highlights this year include: Major attractions like Modesh World and the newly introduced Modesh Splash Park. Themed cafés, workshops, mall appearances, and surprise flash zones. Photo opportunities and curated seasonal itineraries. Family workshops and giveaways, creating interactive festival moments throughout the city. Ghubash emphasises, 'Modesh and Dana are at the heart of our family experience—spreading smiles and creating unforgettable summer moments for children of all ages.' Culinary delights across the emirate Food lovers are also catered to through DSS's Summer Restaurant Week and curated culinary events: Participating over 100 hotels, 15 attractions, and 10 spas across Dubai. Featuring discounted multi-course menus or a-la-carte dishes city-wide. Includes attractions such as Asia Asia, Black Tap, as well as casual favourites like Shake Shack. Budget options such as the 10 Dirham Dish further expand accessibility. These curated menus and experiences encourage both residents and visitors to sample Dubai's diverse hospitality offerings—at reduced cost and elevated presentation. DSS supports Dubai's economy year-round vision Aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, DSS maintains momentum in tourism, retail, and hospitality during summer's off-peak season. By harnessing infrastructure, executing citywide activations, and integrating community-based programming, DSS demonstrates Dubai's ability to sustain vibrant economic activity regardless of seasonal challenges. 'DSS is a showcase of Dubai's world-class infrastructure and service offerings—reinforcing our position as a global hub of tourism, retail, and leisure,' adds Ghubash. 'We want to redefine value-driven summer experiences in a modern international city.' Outlook: Ongoing innovation ahead Looking forward, DSS aims to build on its transformative 2025 edition. DFRE plans continue to: Introduce fresh retail campaigns and headline entertainment. Roll out specially curated tourism experiences. Expand signature concepts and value propositions. Leverage family-friendly initiatives with new cultural and educational collaborations. Ghubash confirms, 'Each year, we intend to deliver new reasons for residents and tourists to explore Dubai, with creative concepts that reflect the city's innovation and world-class standards.' Attracting global visitors with year-round value For international visitors, DSS 2025 offers a compelling summer itinerary: Headline concerts, shopping discounts, theme park access, family camps, and free cultural entertainment. Strategic promotions across tourism sectors—retail, gastronomy, attractions, wellbeing, and more—offer a curated taste of Dubai at its most dynamic. Flexible event formats and loyalty-driven rewards provide added value without financial strain. 'DSS is the ultimate reason to visit Dubai in summer,' concludes Ghubash. 'With headline events, premium deals, family events, and citywide activations, summer becomes synonymous with discovery, affordability, and celebration.' Summary: Why DSS 2025 stands out Record 66‑day duration enables sustained engagement. Three-tiered shopping seasons maintain promotional freshness. BOGO deals, culinary bargains, and flair strategies elevate everyday experiences. Extensive prize draws and loyalty programs supercharge participation. Free cultural events, mascots, and educational camps enrich family journeys. Aligned with D33, DSS promotes consistent economic momentum. Strategic programming positions Dubai as a top-tier summer destination. With architecture built on innovation, scale, and integrated value, Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 sets a new benchmark for global summer festivals.
Zawya
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Malls across Dubai come alive this DSS with non-stop entertainment, unbeatable prizes, and endless summer fun
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Malls across Dubai are turning up the fun this Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025, inviting families, friends and fun-seekers of all ages to dive into a packed programme of live performances, thrilling activations, and spectacular prizes. Promising a summer well spent with something new and value-packed to experience every day, this year's line-up of mall events and activations bring more energy, more entertainment, and more reasons to head to citywide shopping destinations until 31 August - anchored around three dedicated retail seasons for the first time ever, kicking off with Summer Holiday Offers, live now until 17 July. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) as part of the DSS programme of thousands of offers and things to do all summer long, everyone in the emirate has endless ways to stay entertained with the biggest-ever performing arts schedule, live daily shows, pop-up performances, indoor mall runs, exclusive savings, thrilling surprises, and grand giveaways. Mall of the Emirates continues the citywide DSS excitement with a 60's Parade on 12 July, while Circle Mall features Doll Mascots and Souq Hatta transforms into a magical stage with Cinderella on the same day on 12 July. Ibn Battuta Mall brings back the Pink Circus on 18 July, followed by the Butterfly Ladies at Nakheel Mall on 24 July and DSS Roller Skaters at Mirdif City Centre on 26 July. Nad Al Sheba Mall hosts the Acro Rockettes on 9 August, followed by the Dolls at Ibn Battuta Mall on 15 August, and both the Roller Skaters at Dragon Mart and Little Fairies Show at Souq Hatta on 16 August. The schedule wraps up with the Festive Hula Loop at Nad Al Sheba Mall on 23 August. Meanwhile, Bluewaters Island and The Outlet Village host crowd-favourites like Bubble Skaters and Mexican Folk Dancers across multiple weekends throughout the summer. Until 23 July, Mall of the Emirates is also hosting the Jurassic Café by VOX Cinemas, a prehistoric pop-up packed with immersive photo ops, themed dining, and hands-on dinosaur encounters, from DNA lab puzzles to roaring contests and baby dino hatching stations. Running from 17 July to 3 August, Voyage Club transforms City Centre Mirdif into a Riviera-inspired indoor beach escape. Expect customisation workshops, art spaces, pop-ups from local brands, and refreshing summer bites, with entry granted for shoppers spending AED 200 or more. Families can dive into the fun at the all-new Modesh Splash Park, running until 31 August at Dubai Festival City Bay Avenue. Organised by Red Event, this epic outdoor activation is packed with themed water zones and adventure areas designed for different age groups, offering endless ways for toddlers, children, and teens to splash and play all summer long. Whether it's racing down slides or exploring interactive stations, the experience brings the playful spirit of Modesh to life in one of the summer's most exciting new destinations. Football fans can head to The Messi Experience at Dubai Festival City Mall, where an immersive journey into the world of football runs until 31 August. Packed with interactive games, photo ops, and digital challenges, it's the ultimate indoor activity for sports lovers of all ages. DSS has kick-started a high-energy line-up of indoor mall runs for all ages and abilities, coming up at Ibn Battuta Mall on 13 July, with registration now open and early bird tickets starting from AED 85. The momentum continues with Mall of the Emirates on 3 August and Wafi Mall on 10 August - both organised by Dubai Sports Council and managed by Peloton Events. The final run of the season takes place at Dubai Festival City Mall on 31 August, promising high-energy beats, cool-down zones, and surprise giveaways for a morning of family fun and fitness. Shoppers at Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, and City Centre Me'aisem can also enter the SHARE Millionaire draw, with four lucky winners each taking home one million SHARE points this summer when spending AED 300 or more. Meanwhile, Tickit rewards shoppers citywide by automatically entering them into a draw, with five lucky winners each receiving AED 10,000 in points. Shoppers who spend AED 300 or more at Dubai Festival City Mall can enter to win weekly prizes and a brand-new Polestar 4 LRSM in the grand draw at the end of DSS, while over at Dubai Outlet Mall, a spend of AED 200 gives shoppers the chance to win a Soueast S06 SUV, making this summer's shopping even more rewarding. Of course, no DSS summer would be complete without Modesh and Dana, who will be making special appearances across malls and attractions. Families can catch them live at Dubai Festival City Mall on 12 July and City Centre Mirdif on 19 July, with more pop-ups scheduled at Ibn Battuta Mall on 18, 25, and 29 August; followed by Dubai Frame, Dragon Mart, Souq Hatta, Mercato, Circle Mall, Al Barsha City Centre, and Deira City Centre throughout the remainder of DSS. From playful city décor to themed giveaways and roaming entertainment, Modesh and Dana bring extra magic to families at DSS each year. Over at Mercato and neighbouring Town Centre Jumeirah, Slide Into Summer Surprises is back with more ways to win than ever. Shoppers who spend AED 200 or more and scan their receipts on the PrivilegePLUS app will be entered into weekly raffle draws, with each winner taking home AED 10,000 in cash, plus a shot at driving off in the grand prize: a brand-new Jetour T1 SUV. At Mercato, families can also enjoy daily circus entertainment and take on the mall's free summer slide, one of the most anticipated attractions this DSS. New for this year, visitors can book fast-track access to the slide through the PrivilegePLUS app, making every visit even smoother and more fun. Summer at City Walk returns with weekend live music and seasonal shopping and dining offers, while Cool Off at JBR transforms The Beach, JBR into a dessert-themed destination, complete with sweet summer deals and five times the Tickit points at select Pavilion restaurants. Bluewaters and The Outlet Village are also in on the action, offering DSS Live Entertainment, retail rewards and family fun every weekend. At Festival Plaza, shoppers can take part in the thrilling Shop. Win. Drive. campaign simply by spending AED 200 or more until 31 August. With six brand-new SUVs and twenty AED 5,000 cash prizes up for grabs, it's a summer of high stakes and even bigger rewards, with entries accepted online or at the customer service desk by uploading a receipt. For those looking to support local and discover something new, The Ripe Market is going indoors for summer with a curated line-up of over 100 homegrown businesses, workshops and activations for all ages. Catch it every weekend at Town Centre Jumeirah (Saturdays and Sundays, 10AM to 10PM until 17 August), The Westin Mina Seyahi (Sundays, 1PM to 5PM until 28 September), and Times Square Center (Sundays, 10AM to 7PM until 26 October). With so much to see, do, taste and try, DSS 2025 promises the most entertaining mall season yet, where every visit brings a little more magic, and every moment feels like summer well spent. Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 is supported by Key Sponsor Commercial Bank of Dubai and Strategic Partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat. For more information, visit the Dubai Summer Surprises website and follow @DubaiFestivals on Instagram and TikTok. About Dubai Summer Surprises 2025: Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 takes over the city for its 28th edition from 27 June to 31 August, showcasing the summer as one of the best value times of the year to experience Dubai. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the most value-packed edition of DSS this year promises a summer well spent for everyone with thousands of offers and things to do for 66 non-stop days. For the first time ever in DSS history, the city's retail sector is anchored around three distinct shopping seasons - Summer Holiday Offers from 27 June to 17 July, Great Dubai Summer Sale from 18 July to 10 August, and Back to School from 11 to 31 August. Each period unlocks exclusive new retail promotions, spectacular mall activations, and life-changing raffles, alongside world-class gastronomy, hospitality, indoor family fun, and a packed events calendar. Bringing together a mix of not-to-be-missed, brand-new experiences and returning festival favourites for every preference and price point, there are endless reasons to stay, play, shop, and celebrate an exciting summer season together. DSS 2025 truly delivers unforgettable moments for everyone, whether families, friends, couples, residents, or visitors. About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events. For further information, please contact: Dubai Economy and Tourism mediarelations@
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 starts today with over 7,500 offers, free things to do, and the season's biggest-ever prizes
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The most eagerly awaited and valued-packed edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 officially commences today, with thousands of unbeatable offers, free experiences, and family-friendly entertainment designed to make this a summer well spent for everyone. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the 28th edition of Dubai's favourite summer festival runs until 31 August with pocket-friendly prices and great value for everyone across unbeatable shopping, jaw-dropping discounts, show-stopping headline concerts and live entertainment, the season's biggest-ever prizes, world-class gastronomy, and endless family-friendly experiences at every turn. Bringing a brand-new shopping experience for the first-time ever this year are three specially curated retail seasons - kicking off with Summer Holiday Offers, live now until 17 July. From massive savings of up to 75 per cent across hundreds of brands citywide and exclusive giveaways to surprise pop-ups, dining deals, and incredible entertainment for all ages, this early summer shopping campaign delivers exceptional value to residents and visitors at the very start of the DSS season. Whether planning a staycation, shopping spree, or weekend outing, the shopping season is packed with ways for residents and visitors alike to enjoy more of the city for less. Several more surprises are waiting to be unlocked every single day at citywide attractions, hotels, as well as star-powered performances, thrilling live entertainment, diverse culinary delights, enchanting experiences with everyone's favourite Modesh and Dana, and so much more. FREE THINGS TO DO FOR ALL AGES Families and visitors can enjoy a line-up of free entertainment and activations throughout DSS. The celebrations kick off with a spectacular weekend of family fun, cultural celebrations, and show-stopping entertainment across the city. On Friday, 27 June, Dubai Festival City Mall hosts Japanese dance crew Sabrina and Palestinian-Jordanian pop artist Reina Khoury, while Abri & the Band and singer-songwriter Noel Kharman takes to the stage on Saturday, 28 June. Over at City Centre Mirdif, Syrian vocalist Al Shami and Jordanian indie rock band Jadal perform live on Saturday, 28 June, with roaming entertainers and energetic live acts bringing extra vibrancy to the weekend atmosphere. DINE OUT FOR LESS One of the most anticipated events of DSS - Summer Restaurant Week - makes its eagerly awaited return this July, inviting diners across the city to experience some of Dubai's best-loved restaurants at exceptional value from 4 to 13 July. Exclusive set menus will be available at more than 55 casual dining destinations, with two-course lunches priced at AED 95 and three-course dinners at AED 150. From Emirati comfort food to modern Asian plates, the line-up reflects the diversity that defines dining in Dubai. Bookings are open now, exclusively through OpenTable. Adding to the incredible gastronomy programme this DSS is the first-ever 10 Dirham Dish from 1 to 31 August, celebrating the richness of the local dining scene by offering dishes at an accessible price point of just AED 10. The full list of participating restaurants will be announced soon. FAMILY OFFERS DSS is the best-value time of year to enjoy Dubai's world-class leisure scene, with exclusive summer offers at more than 100 hotels, 15 top attractions, and 10 spas across the city. Whether planning a weekend escape, a city break with the kids, or meaningful indoor fun, DSS 2025 offers something for every age, interest and budget. Think resident rates, family packages, free upgrades, added extras, and surprise perks designed to help friends, families, children, parents, grandparents, and every extended family member in between relax, recharge, and experience more of Dubai for less. One of the summer's most popular value products, the DSS Entertainer returns for 2025 with over 7,500 Buy One Get One Free offers across premium and casual dining, brunches, delivery, attractions, leisure, spas, salons, fitness, and more. Customers can enjoy three months of unlimited access to ENTERTAINER Dubai from the date of purchase, with each participating merchant offering up to three redemptions valid seven days a week. The exclusive DSS edition is available throughout the festival period, giving residents and visitors ample time to explore everything on offer. Top venues confirmed for 2025 include Wild Wadi, Motiongate Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Shake Shack, STK, Asia Asia, Black Tap, Real Madrid World, Bounce, Le Pain Quotidien, Café Bateel, and many more across Dubai. The excitement continues for families with creative and educational summer camps running at cultural institutions across the city. Highlights include Al Jalila Cultural Centre's 'Burst of Imagination' arts programme, heritage and leadership camps at Etihad Museum and Al Shindagha Museum, and archaeology-themed adventures for young explorers. Seasonal camps will also take place at Dubai Municipality's Children's City, offering hands-on fun throughout the school holidays. EPIC BARGAINS AND MALL PROMOTIONS An epic 9 weeks of unbeatable promotions and exclusive in-store offers kicks off today as part of the summer-long DSS Sales Season, commencing with the exclusive Summer Holiday Offers until 17 July. Shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 75 per cent at more than 800 brands and over 3,000 stores, along with chances to win incredible prizes through a line-up of exciting mall and retailer campaigns. Highlights include one million SHARE points at Majid Al Futtaim malls, one million AURA points at all participating brands citywide, AED 10,000 in Tickit points, a brand-new Polestar 4 LRSM car up for grabs at Dubai Festival City Mall, a Soueast S06 SUV from Dubai Outlet Mall, daily cash prizes as part of the Slide Into Summer Surprises activation at Mercato Shopping Mall and Town Centre Jumeirah, the "Shop. Win. Drive" campaign at Dubai Festival Plaza to win one of six brand-new SUVs or be among 20 lucky winners of AED 5,000 cash prizes each, and several more instant wins throughout the city. Expect surprise deals daily, with limited-time campaigns like The Lucky Receipt promotion, which returns from 27 June to 17 July to crown 210 lucky winners with 10 prizes from 10 brands across 21 days, when spending AED 300 or more at select retailers. Participating brands include Odora, Jawhara, EMAX, Chattels & More, Eros, Sharaf DG, Early Learning Centre, Flormar, Ecity, and The White Company. Plus, don't miss the first-ever Interiors Warehouse Sale from 28 June to 5 July at Dubai World Trade Centre, featuring premium furniture and home décor from globally renowned brands including Giorgio Collection, Michael Amini, Theodore Alexander, Fama, and several other campaigns offering unbeatable value on fashion, tech, and luxury favourites - perfect for refreshing wardrobes, restocking essentials, and treating loved ones to something special. Shoppers can also win the season's biggest-ever prizes in citywide raffles, including the Dubai Shopping Malls Group DSS Raffle from 27 June to 31 August, which is giving away the keys to nine brand-new cars; the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group Raffles from 27 June to 30 August, offering 30 gold bars to 30 winners; and the Visa Jewellery Programme from 27 June to 30 August, with 50 winners receiving a share of AED 175,000 in jewellery vouchers. Several more chances to win will be announced in the coming weeks. Mall shoppers can unlock unique experiences and big rewards at every turn, from Jurassic Café by VOX Cinemas at Mall of The Emirates to Ripe Market Indoor Summer Markets, Summer at City Walk, and Cool Off this Summer at The Beach JBR, plus many more promotions throughout the summer. For football fans, The Messi Experience at Dubai Festival City Mall promises an immersive journey into the world of football until 31 August, packed with interactive games, photo ops, and engaging zones for all ages. SPECIAL PERFORMANCES IN CITYWIDE MALLS A dynamic mix of free-to-attend music, dance, and performing arts at all leading citywide malls bring even more incredible ways to thrill and entertain the whole family. With nearly 20 high-energy roaming acts happening every weekend throughout DSS, there's nonstop action for all ages with dazzling parades, roller skating performers, acrobatic shows, circus acts, folk dancers, and plenty more surprises. Lastly, everyone's favourite Dubai characters Modesh and Dana are lighting up the city with special appearances. Families can meet them live at Dubai Festival City Mall on 28 June, City Centre Mirdif on 29 June, and Ibn Battuta Mall on 30 June, with more surprise pop-ups planned at attractions and malls throughout the summer including Dubai Frame, Bluewaters, Dubai Children City, Nakheel Mall, and Mall of the Emirates. From playful city décor to themed giveaways and roaming entertainment, Modesh and Dana bring extra magic to families at DSS each year. Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 is supported by Key Sponsor Commercial Bank of Dubai and Strategic Partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat. About Dubai Summer Surprises 2025: Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 takes over the city for its 28th edition from 27 June to 31 August, showcasing the summer as one of the best value times of the year to experience Dubai. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the most value-packed edition of DSS this year promises a summer well spent for everyone with thousands of offers and things to do for 66 non-stop days. For the first time ever in DSS history, the city's retail sector is anchored around three distinct shopping seasons - Summer Holiday Offers from 27 June to 17 July, Great Dubai Summer Sale from 18 July to 10 August, and Back to School from 11 to 31 August. Each period unlocks exclusive new retail promotions, spectacular mall activations, and life-changing raffles, alongside world-class gastronomy, hospitality, indoor family fun, and a packed events calendar. Bringing together a mix of not-to-be-missed, brand-new experiences and returning festival favourites for every preference and price point, there are endless reasons to stay, play, shop, and celebrate an exciting summer season together. DSS 2025 truly delivers unforgettable moments for everyone, whether families, friends, couples, residents, or visitors. About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment: Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events.
Gulf Business
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Eid Al Adha in Dubai: A guide to what's on offer from shopping to live events
Images: Supplied Get ready for an extraordinary Eid Al Adha in Dubai. From June 2 to 8, the city will transform into a vibrant spectacle of joy and entertainment, offering an action-packed programme curated by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). Whether you're a resident or a visitor, prepare to create unforgettable memories with world-class entertainment, the season's biggest retail offers, exclusive hotel and attraction deals, endless culinary adventures, and once-in-a-lifetime prizes. As Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, aptly puts it, 'This year's Eid in Dubai programme is designed to create memorable moments through world-class entertainment, cultural showcases, incredible retail and dining offers, and breathtaking experiences that truly reflect the warmth and vibrancy of our city. We welcome everyone to celebrate Here's a breakdown of what's on offer to make your Eid truly special: 1. Live events, concerts and shows Dubai's Eid Al Adha celebrations promise a spectacular line-up of entertainment for all ages and interests. Mohamed Abdo Live: The legendary Saudi singer lights up Coca-Cola Arena on June 7 for an unforgettable evening of music. Tickets are available via the Coca-Cola Arena website. The Greatest Wish : Families can enjoy a feel-good Arabic play with lively characters and captivating scenes at Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, from June 6 to 8. Comedy Nights : French comedian Roman Frayssinet performs at the Emirates Theatre on June 7, while Indian comic sensation Shraddha Jain makes her Dubai debut at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, Indian High School, on the same night. Dinner With A Clue : For a night of suspense and intrigue, this live-action murder mystery returns aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 on June 7. Candlelight Concert : Soak in the glow of flickering flames on June 7, featuring classical renditions of timeless works by Vivaldi and modern tributes to Coldplay, at Mina A'Salam Hotel in Madinat Jumeirah. One Thousand Nights and A Wedding : Enjoy a comedic twist on a classic tale, performed on June 7 and 8 at Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre. The Messi Experience : Football fans can immerse themselves in the extraordinary world of Lionel Messi with nine interactive zones spanning 2,500 square metres at Dubai Festival City Mall until February 28, 2026. 2. Retail offers and city-wide shopping raffles Dubai's retail scene brings exciting offers, exclusive collections, and irresistible promotions across the city this Eid Al Adha. 3 Day Super Sale (3DSS): From May 30 to June 1, enjoy up to 90 per cent off at more than 500 top brands across over 2,500 outlets. Shoppers can also unlock greater value using loyalty programmes like BLUE Rewards, SHARE, Amber, Tickit, AURA, Privilege Plus, or Skywards Everyday. Dubai Festival City Mall's Spend & Win: Spend Dhs300 or more for a chance to win a whopping Dhs20,000 mall gift card. Dubai Jewellery Group: Explore stunning Eid collections and unlock exclusive deals like complimentary gifts, 50 per cent back on select diamond and pearl jewellery, free custom engraving, and zero deduction on old gold exchange until June 8. Dubai Shopping Malls Group Shop & Win: Running until the second day of Eid Al Adha, 25 lucky shoppers can win cash prizes worth a total of Dhs200,000 when spending just Dhs200 at participating malls, including Al Ghurair Centre, Arabian Center, and Sunset Mall. 3. Mall activations Dubai's malls are transforming into vibrant hubs of celebration with a wide array of immersive experiences, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Mercato Mall: From June 6 to 9, enjoy a Fun Eid Explosion main show, cotton candy performances, face painting, craft and painting workshops, and roaming entertainers. Shoppers can also unlock exclusive discounts through the PrivilegePLUS App. City Walk: Escape the summer heat with exceptional dining, live entertainment, and engaging family activities from June 6 to 9, between 5pm and 10pm. Ibn Battuta Mall: Experience VERSUS 2.0, a next-generation gaming activation at the Egypt mini court from June 6 to 15. Dubai Festival City Mall: Witness a brand-new IMAGINE Show, with breathtaking projection mapping performances every hour from 7pm, traditional cultural shows on the first two days of Eid after 5pm, and special giveaways from 2pm to 9pm. Roaming Entertainment: Enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Al Ayala and Al Harbiya bands, an essential part of Emirati celebrations, across top destinations like Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Festival City Mall, with multiple showtimes throughout Eid. 4. Dining delights across the city This Eid Al Adha, Dubai's culinary scene comes alive with a host of festive feasts and indulgent dining experiences. High Tea to Luxury Dinners: From exquisite high teas at Mosaico Lobby Lounge to luxurious Eid dinners at Enigma, food lovers have endless choices. Authentic Flavors: Popular venues such as Varq, Palm Kitchen, Punjab Grill, and Dhaba Lane present dishes bursting with authentic flavors. Lively Atmospheres: The Permit Room and The Market Island at Dubai Festival City Mall offer vibrant dining experiences. Family Outings: Ranches Restaurant at Arabian Ranches Golf Club hosts BBQ nights, Sunday roasts, and a magical breakfast with Magic Phil. Signature Hotel Dining: Celebrate in style at Palazzo Versace's Giardino or enjoy signature offerings at renowned hotel restaurants including Novotel World Trade Centre, Fairmont Dubai, Swissôtel Al Ghurair, and Dukes The Palm. 5. Exclusive staycation deals for a luxurious eid break Residents and visitors can make the most of the long weekend with exclusive staycation offers across Dubai's top hotels. JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai: GCC residents can enjoy 25 per cent off dining across its award-winning restaurants. InterContinental Dubai Festival City: Guests receive 25 per cent off stays, gourmet breakfasts, VOCO Monaco beach access, Dubai Festival City Mall discounts, and One Rewards bonus points. Leading properties: Packages and savings are available at Swissôtel Al Ghurair, 25hours Hotel One Central, Fairmont Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, and many more. 6. Family-friendly stays and Eid attractions Dubai is set to pull out all the stops for families this Eid Al Adha, with irresistible staycation deals and thrilling attractions for all ages. Atlantis The Palm: UAE residents enjoy up to 35 per cent off rooms and suites, plus Kids Go Free perks and complimentary access to Aquaventure. Dubai Festival City Hotels: InterContinental Residence Suites, Holiday Inn & Suites, and Crowne Plaza offer luxury escapes with breakfast and dinner packages, discounts to kid-friendly hotspots, spa credits, and IHG One Rewards points. The First Collection Hotels: Get up to 45 per cent off advance bookings, free stays and meals for kids under five, and generous F&B discounts. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa: Enjoy 15 per cent off a secluded Bedouin villa stay with a private pool, full-board dining, and desert activities including stargazing and horse riding. Beyond hotels, the city's top attractions are rolling out exciting Eid specials: Dubai Dolphinarium: 30 per cent off Dolphin & Seal Show tickets using promo code EID25. Wild Wadi Water Park: Cool off with water rides and live entertainment. LEGOLAND Dubai: Join the Summer Splash Fest with interactive games, a Build-A-Boat Championship, and an exclusive afterparty. The Green Planet: Transforms into a tropical Eid haven with henna, face painting, and family movie screenings. Chaos Karts and PACMAN Live: Enjoy discounted 10 per cent off family bundles. Hatta Wadi Hub: Slashes prices on outdoor adventure packages by 50 per cent. House of Hype: Offers four tickets for Dhs449. AYA Universe: Invites families to explore its wonders for Dhs399. Eid in Dubai promises to delight residents and visitors alike, with a citywide celebration that blends ultimate excitement, cultural charm, and unforgettable moments for all ages. For the latest updates and full event details, visit the
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: DSS to kick off on June 27 with discounts, exclusive offers, concerts
The city of Dubai has long been associated with shopping, even during the scorching summer months, and this year the emirate is gearing up for the heat with what it promises to be the largest-ever edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS). Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment said that DSS 2025 will kick off on June 27 and will last until August 31. Over the course of 66 days, it will feature three major retail campaigns, each packed with exclusive offers, rewards, and interactive mall activations. The Summer Holiday Offers (June 27–July 17), the Dubai Summer Mega Sale (July 18–August 10), and Back to School (August 11–31) are designed to provide unbeatable deals across Dubai's premier shopping destinations. Foodies will be in for a treat during Dubai Restaurant Week from July 4–12, featuring curated menus at top restaurants, while shoppers can look forward to daily 12-hour flash sales and exclusive limited-time offers. For those who are into music, the city will host live performances for artists including Banah, Adnan Sami, Adonis, and Shreya Ghoshal. Additionally, Dubai Opera will host a theatrical show called Made in Kuwait on August 29 and 30. DSS will also offer special hotel packages, family deals at major attractions, and raffle draws with high-value prizes. The full calendar of events will be unveiled soon, showcasing a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of summer in Dubai.
