20 Best Festivals in Dubai You Must Experience

Dubai, a city known for its skyscrapers and luxury, also boasts an incredible range of festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who enjoys music, there’s always something exciting happening in Dubai.

In this guide, you will learn about 21 of the traditional festivals in Dubai, highlighting what makes each unique and why you should add them to your travel itinerary!

1. New Year’s Eve

Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are nothing short of spectacular. Iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah light up the night sky with dazzling fireworks and synchronized music shows.

Opening Hours: Celebrations start at sunset, with fireworks typically at midnight.

How to Get There: Use the Dubai Metro to reach Downtown Dubai early to secure a good viewing spot near the Burj Khalifa. Alternatively, book a spot on a dhow cruise for a unique waterfront view.

Local Tip – Consider booking a rooftop dining experience at restaurants like Atmosphere for unparalleled views and a gourmet menu.

2. Dubai Shopping Festival

A shopaholic’s paradise, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is one of the famous celebrations in Dubai that offers massive discounts, live concerts, fashion shows, and raffles where you can win luxury cars and gold.

Website: https://www.visitdubaishoppingfestival.com/

Opening Hours: Most malls and outlets extend their hours to midnight or later during DSF.

How to Get There: Major malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates are accessible via the Dubai Metro’s Red Line.

Local Tip – Visit Global Village during DSF for a mix of shopping, cultural performances, and global cuisine.

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3. Dubai Food Festival

This culinary extravaganza celebrates Dubai’s diverse food scene with pop-up restaurants, food trucks, and events like ‘Taste of Dubai’ and ‘Beach Canteen.’

Opening Hours: Varies by event, with most activities taking place in the evenings.

How to Get There: Locations include Jumeirah Beach and Dubai Festival City, both accessible by taxi or bus.

Local Tip – Sign up for a ‘Hidden Gems’ food tour to discover Dubai’s best-kept culinary secrets.

4. Dubai Design Week

Dubai Design Week is a hub for innovation and creativity, showcasing contemporary art, furniture design, and architecture.

Website: https://www.dubaidesignweek.ae/

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM during the event week.

How to Get There: The main venue, Dubai Design District (d3), is easily reachable by car or taxi.

Local Tip – Participate in workshops to create your own art piece or attend talks by industry experts for insider knowledge.

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5. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year)

The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and falls on the first day of Muharram. 

This significant occasion commemorates the Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, which laid the foundation for the first Muslim community. 

Opening Hours: Celebrations vary but are generally during the day.

How to Get There: Mosques and cultural centers host events; check local listings for details.

Local Tip – Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding for insights into Islamic traditions and history.

6. Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha

These religious festivals in Dubai are celebrated with grand feasts, charity, and prayers, making them an integral part of Dubai’s cultural fabric.

Opening Hours: All-day celebrations, with specific prayer times early in the morning.

How to Get There: Attend public celebrations at Zabeel Park or the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Local Tip – Experience the festive vibe at souks and malls where special sales and activities are held.

7. UAE National Day

The UAE National Day is celebrated on December 2nd each year, marking the unification of the seven emirates in 1971. This significant day is commemorated with vibrant parades, fireworks, and cultural events across the country, reflecting national pride and unity. Festivities include military displays, concerts, and various activities that engage both locals and expatriates in a spirit of celebration and appreciation for the nation’s heritage.

Website: https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/events/uae-national-day

Opening Hours: Events start in the afternoon and go on until late evening.

How to Get There: Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah Beach are hotspots for celebrations.

Local Tip – Visit Heritage Village to explore traditional Emirati crafts and performances.

8. Art Dubai

Art Dubai is the leading contemporary art fair in the Middle East, taking place annually in March at Madinat Jumeirah. The event showcases a diverse range of artworks from around the world, featuring approximately 120 galleries and artists from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MENASA). 

In addition to exhibitions, Art Dubai hosts a variety of talks, panel discussions, and performances, making it a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and artistic dialogue.

Website: https://www.artdubai.ae/

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

How to Get There: Held at Madinat Jumeirah, accessible by taxi or shuttle services.

Local Tip – Attend artist-led tours for a deeper understanding of the showcased works.

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9. Dubai International Film Festival

The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) is a cinematic extravaganza that showcases the best in Arab and international cinema. Featuring film premieres, workshops, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, this art festival in Dubai is a must-visit for movie buffs.

Website: https://www.dubaifilmfest.com/

Opening Hours: Screenings and events typically run from morning until late evening.

How to Get There: Events are held across multiple venues, including Madinat Jumeirah and Dubai Opera. Use a combination of the Dubai Metro and taxi services for convenience.

Local Tip – Attend the red-carpet galas for a chance to see your favorite stars. Don’t miss the special screenings of films from emerging Arab filmmakers.

10. Expo City Dubai

Although Expo 2020 officially concluded, its legacy site, known as Expo City Dubai, continues to host events and exhibitions celebrating innovation, culture, and sustainability. It’s a hub of futuristic technology and global collaboration.

Website: https://www.expocitydubai.com/en/

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (varies by event).

How to Get There: Expo City Dubai is easily accessible via the Dubai Metro’s Red Line (Expo 2020 Station).

Local Tip – Explore the Sustainability Pavilion and Al Wasl Dome for a glimpse into the future of architecture and sustainable living. Special events often include live performances and cultural showcases.

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11. Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS)

Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) is a city-wide celebration of summer filled with spectacular sales, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The event transforms Dubai into a shopper’s paradise, while also offering cultural programs and culinary experiences.

Website: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dss

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; timings may vary.

How to Get There: Events are spread across malls, cultural hubs, and outdoor spaces throughout Dubai. Use the Dubai Metro or RTA buses for convenient access to major malls and venues.

Local Tip – Look out for the ‘Shop & Win’ campaigns that offer incredible prizes, from luxury cars to vacation packages. Explore cultural performances held at malls to immerse yourself in Emirati traditions while you shop.

12. The Dubai Marathon

The Dubai Marathon is an annual road race renowned for its flat and fast course, making it ideal for both elite athletes and recreational runners. This prestigious event highlights Dubai’s commitment to promoting health and fitness and attracts participants from around the world, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and stunning landmarks.

Website: https://www.dubaimarathon.org/

Opening Hours: Early morning, starting at 7:00 AM.

How to Get There: Metro and buses provide easy access to the starting point near Jumeirah Beach.

Local Tip – Join as a spectator to enjoy the energetic atmosphere and cheer on participants.

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13. Dubai World Cup

The Dubai World Cup is one of the richest horse races in the world, held annually at the Meydan Racecourse. This prestigious event features a staggering purse of $10 million, attracting elite thoroughbreds and jockeys from around the globe. Beyond the thrilling races, the Dubai World Cup has evolved into a glamorous social occasion, complete with fashion showcases and entertainment, embodying the luxury and ambition of Dubai.

Website: https://dubairacingclub.com/

Opening Hours: Gates open in the afternoon, with races starting in the evening.

How to Get There: Meydan Racecourse is accessible by car or ride-hailing services.

Local Tip – Dress to impress, as the event includes a best-dressed competition.

14. Taste of Dubai

This exciting event features Dubai’s top restaurants, offering signature dishes in taster sizes, alongside hands-on workshops led by celebrity chefs and live music performances. With an artisan market and family-friendly activities, Taste of Dubai promises a delightful experience for food lovers and families alike.

Website: https://tasteofdubaifestival.com/

Opening Hours: Noon to midnight.

How to Get There: Held at Dubai Media City, accessible via taxi or public transport.

Local Tip – Purchase a ‘Taste Pass’ for exclusive deals on food and beverages.

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15. Dubai International Boat Show

This prestigious event takes place at the Dubai Harbor. The show highlights innovations in the marine industry, with a special focus on sustainability and initiatives like the Dubai Reef project aimed at enhancing marine life and eco-tourism.

Website: https://www.boatshowdubai.com/

Opening Hours: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

How to Get There: Dubai Harbour is the main venue, accessible by taxi or shuttle services.

Local Tip – Book a yacht tour for a personalized experience during the event.

16. Al Gaffal Dhow Race

Celebrating maritime heritage, this race features traditional wooden dhows.

Website: https://dimc.ae/race/33rd-al-gaffal-60ft-traditional-dhow-sailing-race-2023-09-02-125224

Opening Hours: Morning to afternoon.

How to Get There: The race starts from Sir Bu Na’air Island, with viewing points along the coast.

Local Tip – Visit the Dubai Marina for post-race celebrations.

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17. Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is a must-attend event for book lovers and literary enthusiasts. Bringing together authors, poets, and thinkers from across the globe, this seasonal festival in Dubai features panel discussions, workshops, and book signings, making it a true celebration of the written word.

Website: https://www.mefcc.com/home/

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varies by session schedule).

How to Get There: The festival is hosted at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Use the Dubai Metro’s Green Line to Creek Station and take a taxi from there. Ample parking is available for those driving.

Local Tip – Attend the ‘Authors on Stage’ sessions for personal insights into the minds of renowned writers. Keep an eye out for exclusive book launches during the event.

18. Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC)

The Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) is the ultimate event for pop culture aficionados. Featuring cosplay competitions, comic book artists, and appearances by actors from popular franchises, it’s a vibrant celebration of geek culture.

Website: https://www.mefcc.com/home/

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

How to Get There: Hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre, it’s easily accessible via the Dubai Metro’s Red Line.

Local Tip – Arrive early to secure front-row seats for panel discussions and autograph sessions. Don’t forget to explore exclusive merchandise from international vendors.

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19. Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship

A prestigious event that celebrates the beauty and elegance of Arabian horses, this championship attracts the best purebred horses from around the world. Competitions focus on grace, agility, and breeding excellence.

Website: https://www.diahc.ae/home

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

How to Get There: Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, it is accessible via the Dubai Metro’s Red Line or by car.

Local Tip – Attend the final day of the championship to witness the crowning of champions and experience the grandeur of the closing ceremony.

20. Dubai International Jazz Festival

The Dubai International Jazz Festival is a music lover’s haven, featuring world-class performances by international and local jazz artists. The festival includes genres ranging from smooth jazz to blues and fusion.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dubaijazzfest/?hl=en

Opening Hours: Evening performances typically start at 6:00 PM and go on until late.

How to Get There: This cultural festival in Dubai is usually hosted at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. Use the tram to reach the Media City stop, or take a taxi.

Local Tip – Upgrade to VIP tickets for an enhanced experience, including premium seating and exclusive lounges. Arrive early to explore food stalls and merchandise.

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FAQs

What festivals are popular in Dubai?

Some of the most popular festivals in Dubai include the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Food Festival, Eid celebrations, and the Dubai World Cup.

Which are the best festivals & events celebrated in Dubai?

The best festivals in Dubai are the Dubai Shopping Festival, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, Art Dubai, and the Dubai International Film Festival.

What is the best time to visit Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the weather is cooler, making it ideal for outdoor festivals.

What is the traditional dance of Dubai?

The traditional dance of Dubai is the Al Ayallah, a form of folk dance performed to rhythmic drumming.

What is the culture of Dubai?

Dubai’s culture blends traditional Arabian values with modernity. It’s a melting pot of What is the main festival of the UAE?

The main festival of the UAE is National Day, celebrated on December 2nd to mark the unification of the Emirates.

When is the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)?

The Dubai Shopping Festival typically takes place in January and February each year.

How can I find out about all the upcoming festivals in Dubai before I book my trip?

You can check the schedules of the festivals in Dubai and events through official tourism websites like Visit Dubai or event platforms like OneVasco.