Are you planning to spend your vacation in Dubai? I bet this trip to Dubai is going to be one of your most exciting experiences. But do you know how to make it even more memorable? Put your suitcases down for a bit. We need to ensure you know all about Dubai festivals!
Participating in one of the top Dubai events takes your trip to a whole new level. Most tourists miss major Dubai events, such as the Dubai shopping festival, food festival, or their national Eids. So don’t be one of them! Keep on reading as we discuss the top 10 Dubai festivals. We will also mention other notable Dubai events.
Top 10 Dubai Festivals Everyone Should Visit
Here, we have gathered a list of the top 10 Dubai festivals. Take some time to check them and see which one suits your interests. Besides, we give you each festival’s date so you can plan your trip accordingly. Now, let’s get right into it!
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
Date: Late December to early February.
Location: Citywide, including malls, outdoor markets, and popular shopping centers.
Highlights and Features: Citywide discounts, exclusive product launches, concerts, fireworks, family entertainment, fashion shows.
Let’s start our list of the top 10 Dubai festivals with the crème de la crème of the city’s events. Dubai is widely popular as the region’s commerce hub. Many tourists visit Dubai only to explore its shopping scene. And if you’re one of those shopaholics, this Dubai festival is going to be a paradise for you!
Dubai Shopping Festival is held annually during the cooler months of the year to attract the most visitors. We highly suggest you move your winter Dubai trip to the first half of the season so you don’t miss out on this global Dubai event. During the DSF, you’ll get incredible shopping deals and discounts. Besides, the city will be full of fireworks, concerts, and family-friendly events. And to make things more interesting, high-end companies all bring their A-game here for the world to watch. So you’ll find their best and latest products in Dubai.
Dubai Food Festival
Date: February to March.
Location: Across Dubai, with events at JBR, Dubai Design District, and popular dining spots.
Highlights and Features: Restaurant Week, food tours, celebrity chef appearances, beach Canteen, tasting events, food trucks, culinary workshops.
All the epicures out there! I would like to draw your attention to this next Dubai festival. Why don’t we accompany Dubai’s pleasant winter weather with some fine dining?! Mark your calendars for the Dubai Food Festival.
Some of the best restaurants in the city have special menus reserved only for this Dubai festival. Others offer irresistible discounts during Restaurant Week. And not to mention that you can immerse even more in the culinary scene of Dubai by attending some extra events. For instance, you can attend food-related activities, like live cooking shows, food tastings, and workshops. These events are what make the Dubai Food Festival a global attraction.
If a tight budget is the thing stopping you from attending this Dubai festival, you don’t need to worry. This festival has something for everyone. From simple street food to luxurious dining, the Dubai Food Festival conquers everywhere in Dubai!
Dubai Jazz Festival
Date: Mid to late February.
Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.
Highlights and Features: International jazz and blues artists, open-air concerts, gourmet food stalls, lively music, relaxed outdoor vibe.
Our next big Dubai festival is for music lovers. And it’s all about the unparalleled genre that shaped modern music in the first half of the 20th century. Why don’t we listen to some good old Jazz while we’re in Dubai?
Unfortunately, the Sheikhs in Dubai still haven’t figured out a way to bring Louis Armstrong back from the dead! But while they’re trying, we can see some of the best Jazz, Soul, R&B, and Funk artists performing at the Dubai Jazz Festival. Even if you consider anything lighter than heavy metal worthless, I bet the charming environment of this Dubai festival will capture your (metal) heart!
The Dubai Jazz Festival happens in the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. The amphitheater is an open-air venue that gives this Dubai event a delightful setting. Musicians sing their Soul and R&B tunes to the stars.
Ramadan and Eid Celebrations
Date: Changes annually based on the lunar calendar (Eid al-Fitr 2024 was on April 10. next year, it’ll be on March 31).
Location: Citywide, with events in malls, parks, and Ramadan tents.
Highlights and Features: Iftar gatherings, Eid fireworks, special mall events, cultural decorations, traditional meals, family-oriented celebrations.
It’s enough with the modern Dubai festivals. Let’s find something rooted in the city’s history and culture, something that is authentically Dubai, something that satisfies our thirst for adventure.
Dubai is an Islamic city. Therefore, a lot of Dubai events are dedicated to Islamic culture and traditions. One of the biggest celebrations is Eid al-Fitr at the end of the holy month of Ramadan. During the day, the whole city is filled with fireworks, special events, and decorations. This Dubai festival is an immersive experience that takes you to the heart of Arabian culture. But before that, what is Ramadan?
Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. That’s why daytime eating or drinking in public is prohibited in Ramadan. On the other hand, Iftar (the ceremony in which Muslims break their fast) gatherings are held throughout the city in public tents. It is ideal for those of you looking to explore a deeper side of Dubai.
Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)
Date: December.
Location: Madinat Jumeirah.
Highlights and Features: Film premieres, regional and international films, red-carpet galas, screenings, industry panels, networking opportunities.
We’re sorry, but this Dubai festival is canceled. We didn’t want to let our dear film buffs down, but we had to be honest. However, before you get furious, let us defend ourselves.
We decided to put this event on our list of the top 10 Dubai festivals, regardless of being canceled, for two reasons. First, it’s not officially canceled. It’s better to say it’s on hiatus. This popular festival in Dubai is highly anticipated to come back, hopefully soon. And the second reason is that this Dubai festival was a GOOD event!
Every year from 2004 to 2017, cinema lovers all gathered in Dubai for the biggest film event in the Middle East. It drew the attention of many talents all across the world. Besides, it was a great opportunity for local filmmakers to put the spotlight on their art. Located in the Madinat Jumeirah, it also consisted of film premieres, red-carpet events, and industry panels. If resumed, The Dubai International Film Festival will be one of the most exciting Dubai festivals.
Dubai Fitness Challenge
Date: October to November.
Location: Citywide, key venues include Kite Beach and Safa Park.
Highlights and Features: 30-day fitness challenge, free classes, fitness villages, outdoor workouts, pop-up gyms, wellness activities.
Tie your running shoes because we’re about to burn some calories! Did you really think we’re not going to consider your health after talking about the Dubai Food Festival or its mouth-watering culinary scene?!
If you happen to visit Dubai in October, participate in this fun Dubai festival. Dubai Fitness Challenge is a citywide event aiming to motivate Dubai’s citizens and visitors to engage in healthy activities. The primary goal is to encourage people to exercise at least 30 minutes daily for a full month. But is it as exciting as our other top 10 Dubai festivals? Absolutely yes! Once you’re a part of its welcoming community, you’ll understand why.
Apart from the community, Dubai offers free classes, challenges, and wellness activities held at designated fitness villages across the city. From cycling to yoga or even boot camping, the Dubai Fitness Festival has something for everyone.
Dubai Art Season
Date: January to March
Location: Dubai Design District, Madinat Jumeirah, and citywide galleries.
Highlights and Features: Art exhibitions, international galleries, public art installations, interactive installations, panel discussions, artist workshops.
Do you enjoy exploring art galleries? Or even better, are you an artist yourself? If so, our next Dubai festival will turn the city into a must-visit destination for you.
During this season, the number of art galleries in Dubai reaches a peak. Besides, many venues are dedicated to showcasing artistic works. They mostly consist of contemporary and modern art. Moreover, various public art projects, interactive installations, and live performances are a big part of Dubai Art Season.
This Dubai event attracts many creative souls to the city. It also showcases the importance of art and culture in Dubai, enriching the city as a world-class place. If you enjoy interacting with artists or enjoy being in the community, don’t miss the Dubai art season.
New Year’s Eve
Date: December 31.
Location: Citywide, with key events at Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Al Arab.
Highlights and Features: Fireworks, LED displays, parties, live music, light shows.
We know this festival isn’t limited to Dubai. We all have been in one of the New Year’s Eve celebrations. But is it too special in Dubai that we decided to dedicate one of our top 10 Dubai festivals to it? Yes, precisely so!
New Year’s Eve events in Dubai are iconic. Every year, it attracts a huge crowd from all over the world. And they all come to see the spectacular fireworks, light displays, and other Dubai events for this international ceremony.
The main event happens at the sight of Burj Khalifa. The tallest building in the world is also a landmark for the New Year’s Festival. Apart from a crowd of thousands of people, you can watch the stunning light show on the Burj Khalifa. It’ll be an unforgettable memory. On the other hand, if you don’t mind spending some big money, you can attend the private luxurious parties at the Palm Jumeirah or Burj Al Arab.
Lastly, what makes New Year’s Eve different in Dubai is the pleasant weather. Come to Dubai for New Year’s Eve if you’re tired of the cold or snowy winters.
Dubai Marathon
Date: January.
Location: Along Dubai’s coastline, starting from Umm Suqeim.
Highlights and Features: World-class marathon course, elite athletes, 10K and 4K runs.
Once again, tie your running shoes! This time, we will run a marathon! Okay, maybe we won’t actually run a marathon! But even if you’re not ready to run 42 kilometers, this Dubai festival still has other things to offer.
The Dubai Marathon attracts fitness enthusiasts from all over the world. Thanks to its flat and fast course, many professional athletes love this annual Dubai event. Along with the main event, the Dubai Marathon has shorter 10k and 4k runs. Therefore, it’s accessible to a large group of participants with different levels of athleticism.
Even if you don’t want to participate in one of the Dubai Marathon runs, you’ll enjoy its lively community, especially if you’re into fitness yourself. The streets are filled with audience cheering participants, giving a positive atmosphere to this Dubai festival.
Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS)
Date: June to August.
Location: Citywide, primarily in malls and indoor entertainment venues.
Highlights and Features: Discounts, family entertainment, raffles, children’s shows, shopping deals, indoor attractions.
Almost every event on the list of top 10 Dubai festivals happens in winter, during the tourist peak season. But do we have any summer Dubai festivals? For those of you who dare to tolerate the summer heat of Dubai, yes, there is one!
First, we didn’t mean to scare you about Dubai’s summer. Although it can get extremely hot, Dubai citizens don’t evacuate the city! Life still goes on under the blissful breeze of air conditioners! Therefore, Dubai still has many indoor activities to offer in summer.
Dubai Summer Surprises is focused on attracting more visitors during the hot months of the year. This Dubai festival consists of discounts and special deals in shopping, dining, and attractions. Besides, the DSS includes raffles and giveaways.
Moreover, Summer Surprises is a family-friendly Dubai event. Take your kids to a children’s show, character parades, or other daily entertainment. It is a great opportunity to explore Dubai’s indoor activities, such as themed play zones and waterparks.
What Are the Top Free Dubai Events?
It’s good to know about a couple of free Dubai events and festivals, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Check our list of the top free events in Dubai. If you happen to be in Dubai during their dates, pay a visit. It won’t cost you anything.
Dubai Metro Music Festival
Date: The 2024 edition took place from September 21 to 27
Location: The 2024 edition happened in these five major stations: BurJuman, Union, Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall, and DMCC.
This is an exciting yet underrated Dubai festival. Dubai Metro Music Festival is a small, charming event that captivates all music lovers. During this event, some of Dubai’s busy metro stations transformed into live music settings. Artists from around the world gather in these metro stations to perform for their audience.
Noor (Festival of Lights) In Dubai
Date: It was held from October 25 to 27, 2024
Location: Al Seef
Our next free Dubai event has roots in Indian and Hindu culture. Diwali celebrations are the Hindu festival of light. It is also celebrated in Dubai as the festival of noor (light). Moreover, the Dubai festival features theater shows, stand-up comedy, musical performances, and traditional Indian delicacies.
Dubai Design Week
Date: It was held from November 11 to 16, 2024
Location: Dubai Design District (d3)
Dubai Design Week is one of the region’s biggest design festivals. It showcases artists’ designs from a wide range of fields. For instance, you’ll see architecture designs, product design, and visual arts in the Dubai Design Week. Besides, every exhibition or workshop is free to attend.
Al Marmoom Heritage Festival
Date: It will be held from March 24 to April 2, 2025
Location: Al Marmoom Camel Race Track
Al Marmoom Festival will take you to the heart of the UAE’s traditions. This cultural festival is ideal for adventurous visitors looking to discover the authentic side of Dubai. This Dubai festival consists of traditional music, dance, camel racing, and local crafts. And not to mention that entry is free for everyone.
UAE National Day Celebration in Dubai
Date: December 2
Location: Citywide, with fireworks displaying at La Mer Beach, Dubai Creek, and Beach JBR
This Dubai festival is celebrated annually on December 2, remarking the UAE’s formation back in 1971. This national holiday is celebrated across the city with various fireworks displays, concerts, and cultural performances. The event focuses on the national pride and unity of the citizens in Dubai.
Dubai Fitness Challenge
Date: Held from October 26 to November 24, 2024
Location: Various locations across Dubai
This is a month-long Dubai festival which is held annually. Its primary goal is to encourage people to exercise at least 30 minutes daily for a full month. It also includes free fitness events, classes, and activities across the city. If you’re visiting Dubai in November, be a part of its positive and supportive community.
Dubai Music Festivals and Concerts
We decided to dedicate a part specifically for music lovers. When it comes to music festivals and concerts, Dubai can become a regional hub. Let’s dive into the city’s music scene to discover the Dubai’s version of Glastonbury.
Most popular Dubai Music Festivals
- Dubai International Jazz Festival
This festival is arguably the most popular music festival held in Dubai. Every year, around February, Dubai welcomes many world-renowned artists to perform at the International Jazz Festival. Other than Jazz, music genres like Soul, R&B, and Pop are performed at this Dubai festival.
- RedFestDXB
This is one of Dubai’s largest music festivals. RedFestDXB is organized by Virgin Radio Dubai, and it hosts live performances of world-class artists. This two-day event is held annually around February inside of the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. No matter your music taste, RedFestDXB covers a vast range of music genres, such as pop, rock, or hip-hop.
- Groove On The Grass
Do you enjoy raves or electronic music in general? If yes, you’re going to have a great time at the Groove On The Grass. This Dubai music festival was held in October 2024 at the Emirates Golf Club. It attracts top electronic music artists to perform in Dubai.
- Untold Dubai Festival
This music festival in Dubai has been regarded as one of the best festivals worldwide and is set to return to Dubai in 2025. If you’re traveling to Dubai in February, keep an eye out for this festival. It features over 200 artists from all over the world. It attracts a massive crowd to the Expo City Dubai. Its lineup mostly consists of EDM artists. However, you’ll see Hip-Hop and Pop artists perform as well.
- Dubai Music Week
This Dubai event is more than just a music festival. It is a mixture of live performances, masterclasses, and industry panels. It creates an engaging atmosphere for all the music lovers worldwide. Its date might vary, but it is usually held in September.
Top Music Concerts in Dubai 2024/2025
Here is a table of the most popular artists who are set to have a concert in Dubai for the next two months. Check out this table to not miss the top concerts in Dubai in 2024 and early 2025.
| Artist | Concert Date |
|---|---|
| Lea Salonga | November 10 |
| Wiz Khalifa | November 16 |
| Thirty Seconds to Mars | December 12 |
| Ricky Martin | December 14 |
| Green Day | January 27 |
| Cigarettes After Sex | January 31 |
Note: we’ve got a bonus concert for you here! It’s not technically a Dubai music concert. But if you’re a diehard fan of Coldplay, you can watch them perform live in Abu Dhabi on January 9. As I said, it’s not in Dubai, but pretty close!
How to Plan for Dubai Festivals
Hopefully, our top 10 Dubai festivals list has grabbed your attention. If you’re interested in accompanying at least some of them to your Dubai trip, you might be thinking, how can I plan for Dubai festivals to get the most out of the city?
To effectively plan for Dubai festivals, you should consider some simple points. Follow this simple guideline to make your trip to Dubai a special experience.
- Look Out for Upcoming Dubai Festivals
It’s always good to keep an eye out for the upcoming Dubai festivals. Are you traveling to Dubai sometime in the next two weeks? Look for what’s coming next in the long list of Dubai events. Along with popular Dubai festivals, such as the Shopping Festival, other worthy events can enrich your travel experience. For instance, the Defected Festival is right around the corner for house music lovers.
- Your Dubai Travel Date
Pick some of your favorite Dubai festivals and set your travel date accordingly. We suggest visiting Dubai in December or early winter to visit most events in Dubai, such as the Shopping Festival, the New Year’s Eve, and the Art Season.
- Reserve Tickets and Accommodation in Dubai
Major Dubai festivals attract a large group of tourists. It means a high demand for accommodations. Make sure you book your hotel rooms in advance to not miss your favorite spot. Besides, check the official website of the festival you want to attend to see if you need any entry tickets. That way, you can book them before other visitors.
- Budget Accordingly for Dubai Festivals
Not all Dubai events are completely free. So make sure you keep it in mind. Check the festivals’ official websites to check for any extra fees.
- Stay Informed about the Dubai Festivals
Stay updated regarding the Dubai festivals. Some of them might undergo some changes or cancellations. Make sure you are informed in advance.
- Plan Your Itinerary in Dubai
Check for the dates and locations of the key events you want to participate in. Besides, get familiar with Dubai’s transportation system to easily get around the city so you don’t miss any events. One other effective way to get around the city is to rent a car. Having a car on your own allows you to discover Dubai’s main events faster and more easily.
Last word
In this article, we discussed the most exciting Dubai festivals that every tourist should at least experience once. Among them were popular Dubai events such as the Shopping Festival, Food Festival, Fitness Challenge, and the Dubai Summer Surprises.
However, the thrilling Dubai events aren’t limited to this top 10 Dubai festivals list. There are still many smaller or occasional events that can add a lot to your Dubai trip. Although we’re helping you to discover the most popular ones, we suggest you explore Dubai events on your own, too. The city’s streets are full of new experiences for every traveler.
FAQ
What is the most popular festival in Dubai?
The most popular Dubai festivals include the Dubai Shopping Festival, Art Dubai, Dubai International Jazz Festival, and Dubai Marathon. These events attract thousands of visitors to Dubai annually.
What is the most celebrated holiday in Dubai?
Eid al-Fitr is the biggest holiday in Dubai. This public event is celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
What is the biggest shopping festival in Dubai?
What month is the big sale in Dubai?
The big sale month in Dubai is from December to January at the end of the year. This month is the best time to shop in Dubai because of the annual Dubai Shopping Festival.
