Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) market returns to Al Seef

Al Seef is a charming attraction which blends the old and new Dubai together. Originally serving as an entry point for the Gulf’s most significant pearl diving port, the Creek’s legendary presence can still be felt here today, as fisherman and merchants navigate the calm waters in sleek dhows each day. Dubai Shopping Festival, in partnership with Dubai Holding Asset Management once again returned to this old-world district. Famous for its waterfront promenade and inspiring Emirati heritage, the Al Seef DSF Market is packed with fun activities, workshops, live entertainment and amazing fireworks. Dubai Shopping festival is back with the third edition of the DSF Al Seef market at . “The location itself is a piece of art”, said Muna Al Falasi, Director, Festivals & Events at Dubai Tourism. Running until 30 January 2022, the theme of this year’s market is centred around the act of ‘learning by doing’, and celebrates the spirit of passing knowledge down from generation to generation.  In the style of a walkable outdoor playhouse and museum, the DSF Market at Al Seef will feature four zones inspired by the natural elements – Water, Air, Earth and Fire – with educational, interactive art installations that bring to life the rich culture and history of the Emirates.

“Each one of them is unique and associated to each element in it’s own way. In addition to that we also have the AR(Augmented Reality) element where you have to unlock the QR codes and follow the instructions to experience the DSF market, added Muna. Building on the ‘learning by doing’ and elemental themes, a series of competition-winning artworks from students across Dubai schools (grades 6 to 12) are on display at Al Seef until 30 January. Run by DSF in partnership with KHDA, the young artists were asked to show how, “I can change the world through sustainability” using a medium of their choice – from photography to collage. Each of the talented winners received AED500 vouchers to spend at Al Seef.

Right up until the end of DSF, the Al Seef Market will also host week-long special content activities such as coffee and date week, where visitors can explore some of the most treasured traditions of Arabia. A number of themed weeks will also be part of the calendar for this very special cultural experience. Coffee Week, from 6 to 19 January, is designed for coffee aficionados to sip and savour the best of coffee culture from authentic Arabic gahwa to Italian cappuccino, and will offer barista experience, tastings and workshops.  Meanwhile, Date Week from 6 to 19 January, will transform the neighbourhood with date inspired food, drink, desserts and more.“Al Seef is a very special place designed to preserve the culture and history of our Emirates. With it’s fun, interactive and innovative elements and extensive entertainment programme, DSF Market Al Seef is an experience for the whole family to enjoy.” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). 

“Dubai has earned its reputation as a global centre for tourism and leisure by consistently delivering unrivalled and innovative experiences. The emirate’s retail and events calendar especially during the winter season attracts residents and visitors from the region and beyond to participate in memorable activations and showcases, and we have no doubt this year’s line-up will exceed expectations. Our strategic partnership with Dubai Shopping Festival is a testament to our commitment to raising the bar for original experiences that spotlight homegrown creatives, our diverse retailers, world-class attractions and local heritage in a safe, immersive way”, said Fareed Abdelrahman, Managing Director of Retail Destinations – Dubai Holding Asset Management.

Al Seef’s DSF Market is open Sunday to Wednesday from 6pm-10pm and Thursday to Saturday from 4pm-11pm. Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is running from now until 30 January 2022 with incredible deals, innovative events, world-class entertainment and life-changing prizes. As the longest running event of its kind, DSF has grown over the last 27 years into a signature celebration for citizens, residents and visitors alike. Featuring the ultimate retail therapy from a wide range of homegrown and global brands as well as live concerts, nightly shows, outdoors markets, pop-up dining and more, this year’s DSF experience is not to be missed.

There was a robust increase in visitation during the first two weeks of DSF as a result of their signature events, unique prizes and the vast shopping options each mall had to offer. “Dubai’s malls, retail stores and attractions adhered to stringent COVID-19 health and safety protocols issued by public health authorities, while taking all the necessary precautions to keep visitors and shoppers safe and at ease. Throughout the first month of 2022, Dubai Shopping Festival has some brilliant live events to keep the whole family amused and entertained. The weather is perfect to be out and enjoy this beautiful old side of Dubai” concluded Muna.