DSF’S ICONIC 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS SPOTLIGHT DUBAI’S LEGENDARY CULINARY SCENE

The iconic annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is inviting everyone around the city to embark on an irresistible culinary adventure featuring a remarkable selection of regional flavours and international cuisines that have been specially curated for the festival’s monumental 30th-anniversary edition. From Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved homegrown concepts, organisers Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) have pulled out all the stops this season to ensure everyone can sample exclusive, authentic, and affordable dining options every single day, in every corner of the city, until 12 January 2025. Foodies can explore gastronomic treasures at DSF Nights at Dubai Festival City Mall, DSF x Hatta, CanteenX, The Uncommon x DSF, DSF Auto Season and e& MOTB. Each experience also brings together unique-to-Dubai attractions, exceptional hospitality, wonderful cultural moments, and stunning natural landscapes, promising not-to-be-missed adventures for friends and families this season.

DSF Nights at Dubai Festival City Mall, presented by talabat, has come alive with an endless collection of exciting family experiences, free-to-attend A-list Arabic concerts every Saturday, live X Factor shows every Sunday, twice-daily IMAGINE shows, daily free fireworks, as well as a delectable selection of foodie experiences that promise something unique for every visitor until 12 January. The Bay by Social is showcasing a tantalising selection of food and drinks, complemented by cosy coffee corners, engaging brand activations, and interactive art displays that promise to captivate audiences. The much-loved seasonal outdoor pop-up Sayf has returned with a diverse menu of international cuisine, paired with expertly crafted beverages by renowned mixologists. Helipad by Frozen Cherry is elevating the festivities by offering visitors spectacular views, live entertainment, and an incredible line-up of casual and on trend eateries. Adding a touch of sweetness, M’OSHI is serving its signature Mochi ice cream, combining authentic Japanese flavours with locally inspired elements to create a truly unforgettable dessert experience.

Hatta Wadi Hub offers visitors a festive experience like no other until 5 January. The much loved Dubai foodie favourites on offer perfectly complement the picturesque setting. Home Bakery are offering their well loved  artisanal pastries crafted with care, GOAT Burger is serving its iconic, craveable bold flavours, burgers and fries, while Adrina, is showcasing a menu brimming with freshness and vibrant tastes. Visitors can also unwind at Alberi Café, a cozy haven for exceptional coffee, or savour hearty meals at Damani Bites. For those seeking indulgence, Doner Race Sandwich promises satisfying bites, while Hatta Fruits will provide a refreshing escape with its selection of natural treats. Finally, Taste of Hatta will bring locally inspired dishes to the table, offering a true taste of the region, all of which can be enjoyed in the great outdoors of Hatta, alongside the immersive experiences on offer at Hatta Wadi Hub during Hatta X DSF, including live music, entertainment, lighting displays and fireworks every Friday and Saturday at 8pm.

CanteenX, a thrilling F&B event that celebrates vibrant flavours and community connections in Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej, is back for its second edition until 31 December under the theme of ‘Adventure Expedition’. This one-of-a-kind foodie pop up has transformed into a vibrant playground for foodies, friends and families alike, offering visitors a journey through taste and imagination. Four immersive zones are bringing captivating characters to life with exclusive experiences, engaging workshops, and Instagram-worthy photo ops. Food enthusiasts can explore trending F&B concepts like Lazio, AD Burger, and ComeFry Sushi, alongside specially curated menus celebrating DSF’s 30th anniversary. Matcha lovers are in for a treat with creative workshops and concepts dedicated to this trending ingredient, while standout F&B names such as Mitzumami, The Honestry, Montauk and Backyard, and Humm Crumbs—fresh from the UK—promise to elevate the culinary experience to new heights. CanteenX also features entertainment in the form of live DJ performances, Oud performances, thrilling children’s activities and appearances from Modesh and Dana on the weekends.

Starting 20 December, visitors can step away from the city’s hustle and be immersed in the tranquil charm of The Uncommon x DSF until 12 January. Nestled in the heart of the desert in the Al Marmoom area, this one-of-a-kind pop up cafe experience effortlessly blends the beauty of nature with artistic creativity, offering a magical retreat for all. Under a canopy of dazzling light installations by Dubai Lights and the warm glow of a cosy firepit, guests can savour a specially curated seasonal menu crafted by Chef Sheikha Hesa Al Khalifa with exclusive dishes that have been perfectly crafted to complement the serene outdoor ambiance, as well as live music from talented Oud and harp players, and delectable artisanal coffee.

DSF Auto Season, a citywide celebration of the thriving automotive culture across the Emirate, is set to ignite the city with unparalleled excitement from 1 to 12 January 2025, delivering a pulse-racing celebration of automotive excellence. This thrilling event will feature engaging meetups at some of Dubai’s trendiest F&B hotspots. Car enthusiasts and thrill-seekers will find the perfect venues to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for all things automotive. The action will take place at RC Cities in Hatta Wadi Hub from 1–12 January, followed by the ultimate biker haven at Bikers Café on 4 January, the sweet and sleek vibes of Cars & Cookies on 5 January, and the edgy automotive community at Block 92 on 10 January.

The 12th edition of e& MOTB is set to take centre stage at Dubai Design District’s Concrete Slab from 3 to 12 January 2025, offering an electrifying celebration of Gen Z culture. This year’s Neo-Vintage theme seamlessly blends nostalgic charm with cutting-edge trends, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors. Food lovers will be spoiled for choice with an exciting culinary adventure featuring 25 brand-new F&B vendors, including the much-anticipated Dubai debuts of global favourites Chipotle and Dave’s Hot Chicken. Adding to the excitement, talabat’s exclusive diner will serve up innovative and diverse food and drink concepts—from health-conscious delights to irresistible Asian fusion creations. While visitors feast on 25 of the coolest F&B brands, they can also shop from 56 brand new retail vendors, watch live concerts, rollerblade and even visit Beauty Bloc.

Visitors can navigate through the endless excitement of this year’s festival through the all-new digital DSF Map – an interactive online guide to explore all of the season’s iconic and only-in-Dubai experiences, festival favourites, ever-popular signature events, and brand-new additions waiting to be discovered across the city.

Dubai Shopping Festival is supported by Key Partners Dubai Islamic Bank and VISA, 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 (Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat.

For more information, visit the Dubai Shopping Festival website and follow @DubaiFestivals on Instagram and TikTok.

Last Updated on 5 days by News Desk 1