Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has announced its Retail Calendar for 2025. The schedule is packed with an array of citywide events and activities designed to enrich the retail experience. The 2025 lineup of festivals and events promises a continuous celebration of shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences that will captivate a diverse audience, delighting both visitors and residents alike.

Supporting Dubai’s economic vision

In alignment with the ambitious objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) which aims to solidify Dubai’s status as a premier global city for both business and leisure, the 2025 Retail Calendar features 18 distinctive events that support this vision.

Key events and cultural celebrations

Highlights include the renowned Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), the world’s longest-running retail festival; Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), a perfect opportunity to enjoy summer excitement with citywide promotions; Ramadan in Dubai, which fosters community spirit through unique culinary experiences, retail offerings, and events; and Eid in Dubai, a significant occasion in the Islamic calendar, celebrated by Muslims globally, where families typically exchange gifts and support those in need. Each event is thoughtfully curated to meet varying preferences, providing personalized experiences for millions of residents and tourists around the globe.

Visionary leadership and strategic goals

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, remarked: “Inspired by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the 2025 Retail Calendar has been crafted to elevate the city’s status as a hub for global events. It comprises a full year of meticulously selected seasonal festivals and campaigns. This calendar not only addresses the interests of our residents and reflects Dubai’s diverse population but also aligns with the desires of business travelers and leisure tourists.

Enhancing local business and tourism

Moreover, through this strategic approach, Dubai is poised to capitalize on the anticipated increase in visitor numbers over the coming year. It not only bolsters the growth of local businesses through essential collaborations with key stakeholders but also enhances Dubai’s attractiveness as a premier destination for shopping, tourism, and entertainment, thus furthering the goals of the D33 Agenda.

Returning for its fourth iteration, the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) is set to take place from April 25 to May 11, 2025. Highlight events will include GameExpo, GameExpo Summit, the Dubai Cosplay Championship, and Play Beyond, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global gaming capital and offering unmatched gaming experiences, exhilarating esports competitions, cutting-edge industry insights, and family-friendly events. The festival will feature numerous tournaments and activities across the city, including educational challenges, allowing attendees to engage deeply with various gaming and learning aspects.

Embracing fashion and retail innovation

Additionally, Dubai Fashion Season, a cornerstone of the Retail Calendar, will engage fashion lovers throughout the year. The Spring/Summer collection will debut in the first half of 2025, while the Fall/Winter collection will follow in the second half, showcasing Dubai’s vibrant fashion scene and its recognition as the leading city for global brands.

Furthermore, with participation from over 1,000 brands and 4,000 outlets annually, this calendar is a pioneering initiative that adapts to industry demands and lays the groundwork for the region’s retail landscape. It is specifically designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of shoppers, offering targeted promotions and personalized shopping experiences that are expected to drive foot traffic and sales.

Read more: What to expect at the 30th Dubai Shopping Festival this December

Dubai Retail Calendar 2025

Dubai Shopping Festival

• Date: December 6, 2024 – January 12, 2025
• About: The 30th edition of DSF will highlight the best shopping, family-friendly events, and entertainment that Dubai has to offer during a vibrant winter season, transforming the city into a hub of excitement and unforgettable experiences. The much-anticipated DSF season will launch with a stellar lineup of live music, captivating experiences, and extraordinary entertainment, featuring citywide activities that cater to everyone’s enjoyment.

Chinese New Year

• Date: January 24, 2025 – February 2, 2025
• About: Dubai will celebrate Chinese New Year with grand festivities, featuring a comprehensive program of live entertainment and exciting offers. The festivities will include spectacular fireworks, cultural performances, unique culinary experiences, and shopping promotions.

DSF Final Sale 

• About: Shoppers will have one last opportunity to grab their favorite items during the DSF Final Sale, as stores and malls across the city prepare for a final weekend of unbeatable deals. The sale will feature discounts ranging from 25 percent to 90 percent at over 3,000 outlets across Dubai, providing savvy shoppers with a perfect chance to find the season’s final items at incredible prices. This mega shopping weekend will also be the last chance for visitors to participate in citywide promotions and raffle draws for big prizes.

Dubai Fashion Season

• Date: Q1 and Q2 2025 (Spring/Summer Collection Launch); Q3 and Q4 2025 (Fall/Winter Collection Launch)
• About: Dubai Fashion Season enhances the city’s reputation as a destination for the latest shopping trends. Consumers can be among the first in the region to wear fresh looks straight from the runway for spring and summer, available at some of the city’s top malls.

Ramadan and Eid in Dubai

• Date: February 28, 2025 – April 6, 2025
• About: This cultural initiative, inspired by the values of Ramadan, invites the local community and visitors to partake in a month of reflection and self-discipline through various activities rooted in Islamic heritage and tradition. Ramadan in Dubai presents an opportunity for cross-cultural understanding, allowing non-Muslim residents and visitors to learn about Islamic and Emirati lifestyles. The city will come alive with community events, light art installations, night markets, extensive dining options featuring special menus in Ramadan tents, and remarkable retail promotions with unique gifting options for the season.

As the city prepares for the conclusion of Ramadan, it comes together in a spirit of generosity and sharing to celebrate Eid Al Fitr. Festive lights and decorations will illuminate the streets, while families and friends gather for delightful meals. Shoppers can take advantage of special promotions, book fantastic staycation packages, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The great online sale

• About: Shoppers should stay tuned for the announcement of a highly anticipated three-day online shopping event. This exclusive sale will feature incredible markdowns of 30 percent to 95 percent on a wide range of products, from clothing and luxury beauty items to electronics and more. Stay alert for the launch date to seize these amazing deals.

Dubai Esports and Games Festival

• Date: April 25, 2025 – May 11, 2025
• About: The Esports and Games Festival will bolster Dubai’s role as a global gaming hub, featuring 17 days of exhilarating events and activities throughout the city. Guests can enjoy gaming experiences, thrilling esports competitions, and innovative industry insights. Educational initiatives will commence in schools in January 2025, culminating with special education days at GameExpo on May 7 and 8, 2025. The GameExpo Summit, Dubai’s largest B2B gaming event, will also take place on these dates, followed by the GameExpo from May 9 to 11 at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Zabeel halls 2 and 3.

3-Day Super Sale (3DSS)

• Date: Edition 1: May 2025; Edition 2: November 2025
• About: Dubai is dedicated to maintaining its status as a premier global shopping destination, and the 3-Day Super Sale is a key initiative in achieving this goal. Each edition is conducted over a single weekend, designed to attract shopping enthusiasts and boost tourism with discounts ranging from 25 percent to 90 percent on a diverse array of products, including clothing, footwear, electronics, furniture, homeware, and groceries.

Eid in Dubai (Eid Al Adha)

• Date: June 2 – 8, 2025
• About: Eid Al Adha is a time of celebration, togetherness, and generosity in Dubai. The city will come alive with family-friendly activities, fantastic deals, and offers that embody the spirit of the holiday. Shoppers can look forward to great discounts at malls, delicious dining options, and vibrant live entertainment, including fireworks and concerts that foster a sense of community. Both residents and visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural traditions during this festive time.

Dubai Summer Surprises

• Date: June 27, 2025 – August 31, 2025
• About: Experience a wealth of offers and activities during Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS). Residents and visitors alike can enjoy world-class shopping, fantastic deals, incredible entertainment, and exciting new activities throughout the city. Summer in Dubai is the best time for value, with countless offers that are sure to delight and thrill visitors of all ages. In a city that caters to all seasons, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Back to school

• Date: August 4 – 28, 2025
• About: Back to School is an exhilarating time when parents can engage with their children’s excitement about updating their school supplies and accessories for the new academic year. This crucial shopping period positions Dubai as an ideal destination for back-to-school shopping, with retailers offering attractive promotions tailored to the season, encouraging parents to spend quality time with their children while instilling smart shopping habits.

DSS final sale

• Date: August 2025
• About: The eagerly awaited DSS Final Sale will present further discounts and impressive savings of up to 90 percent across leading lifestyle, beauty, electronics, and fashion brands throughout Dubai.

Dubai Home Festival

• Date: October 3 – 16, 2025
• About: This festival offers fantastic savings on a variety of home furnishings, catering to everyone looking to furnish or upgrade their decor. The homewares segment will feature special promotions at stores across the city. Previous editions have included opportunities to win prizes ranging from incredible home makeovers to even an apartment.

Festival of lights in Dubai (Diwali)

• Date: October 17 – 26, 2025
• About: The Festival of Lights is a time for reflection, family, and spreading joy. It is a period marked by gift-giving, with many of Dubai’s top retailers offering exciting promotions on gold, jewelry, bridal wear, fashion accessories, and home decor. Shopping malls and entertainment venues will host a variety of festive events and activities that light up the city, making it a wonderful time to visit for those on stopovers or anyone wishing to experience Dubai’s vibrant culture and rich cuisine.

Dubai Fitness Challenge

• Date: November 1 – 30, 2025
• About: The Dubai Fitness Challenge is a citywide initiative promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle for everyone. Friends, families, visitors, colleagues, and communities commit to 30 minutes of exercise for 30 consecutive days. The challenge features a dynamic public engagement program catering to all ages and fitness levels, including fitness events, classes, and sporting activities, along with special deals across a wide range of retail, sports, and fitness providers, as well as healthy food and beverage options. Signature events include the Dubai Run, Dubai Ride, and Dubai Stand Up Paddle, all offering unique fitness experiences in iconic locations.

Eid Al Etihad celebrations (UAE National Day)

• Date: December 1 – 3, 2025
• About: Celebrating the formation of the UAE, its unity, and ongoing growth, the Eid Al Etihad celebrations will feature three days of festivities, including special retail promotions, stunning fireworks displays, and various activations throughout Dubai to honor the nation and its people.