The UAE is a popular destination with a thriving tourism industry, attracting many visitors to experience its magic. Known for famous cities, modern attractions, and rich culture, the UAE’s celebrations and festivals reflect its vibrant spirit. Step into the lively world of Dubai with our guide to the city’s top festivals for first-time visitors. Beyond the glittering skyline, Dubai hosts vibrant events that blend tradition and modern flair. From music to art, these festivals promise an unforgettable experience. The country offers exciting events year-round, showcasing local culture that keeps visitors returning. Whenever you are in the UAE, be sure to join in the celebrations and enjoy the festivities.
A Guide to Unmissable Festivals for New Visitors and Explorers
Here is the list of six must-attend festivals in Dubai for first-time visitors:
- UAE Awafi Festival
- Dubai Desert Classic Festivals
- Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr
- Dubai Shopping Festival
- Dubai Food Festival
- National Day Festival
UAE Awafi Festival
The Awafi festival is an annual celebration of the culture and history of the United Arab Emirates, featuring outdoor sports and making it one of the traditional festivals in the country. Held in the summer, the festival is well-known for competitions involving scaling the tallest dunes using improvised vehicles. Alongside these competitions, there are cultural events like the Heritage Village show, a main bazaar, coffee shops, and art exhibitions. Considered one of the best festivals in the UAE, it is a must-visit if you are in the area during that time.
The festival is open to everyone, and people usually come in off-road vehicles. It features a Heritage Village show, local arts and crafts exhibitions, a bazaar, a play area for children, clinics, and police aid. There are also food outlets, internet cafés, and coffee shops available. The car and dune bike racing competitions typically take place in December or January.
Location
The festival is held in the desert of Ras al-Khaimah. This desert has many tall dunes as well as rough terrain. The land area is 500 acres.
Dubai Desert Classic Festivals
Calling all golf enthusiasts! The Dubai Desert Classic Festival is a much-awaited golf event in Dubai. In 2022, it took place from January 27th to 30th, attracting top golfers from around the world to compete for prizes. As it brings together renowned players, the festival is a great opportunity for tourists to attend, watch the competitions, and have a fantastic weekend. Plan to join the festival in 2023.
History of the Dubai Desert Classic
The Dubai Desert Classic was first held in 1989 and was originally known as the Dubai Masters. The tournament was renamed the Dubai Desert Classic in 1995. The tournament has been won by some of the biggest names in golf including Ernie Els, Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Rose.
Why does the Dubai Desert Classic stand out?
Some of the reasons are given below.
- Elite Golfer Participation
- Outstanding Course: Emirates Golf Club
- Substantial Prize Money
- Global Golf Impact
- Influential in UAE Golf Development
Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr
Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr are important celebrations in Arabian states, including Dubai, which follows Islamic traditions. These religious festivals are widely observed, especially in Dubai, as part of the UAE. Eid marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, and Muslims in Dubai and around the world celebrate with joy. In Dubai, Eid is a special day for all Muslims featuring delicious food, music, and fireworks during the festive Eid celebrations.
Highlights for First-Time Visitors to Dubai During Eid Al Adha
| Festive Atmosphere | Experience a vibrant and celebratory ambiance as the city lights up with decorations, creating a joyous atmosphere around mosques and homes. |
| Family Celebrations | Eid Al Adha is a time for families to gather, share meals, and enjoy each other’s company. Expect lively gatherings and bustling restaurants during this period. |
| Culinary Treats | Delight your taste buds with traditional Eid dishes like ouzi, a slow-cooked lamb or mutton delicacy, filling the air with tempting aromas. |
| Generosity in Giving | Witness the spirit of generosity and community support through Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charity donation given during Eid Al Adha. Experience the heartwarming tradition of charitable giving. |
Dubai Shopping Festival
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is an annual month-long event in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, typically from mid-December to mid-January. It is one of the world’s largest and most popular shopping events, drawing millions of visitors each year. is a great opportunity to experience Dubai’s vibrant culture, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and take advantage of massive discounts on a wide range of products.
Dubai Shopping Festival Highlights
| Massive Discounts | Enjoy substantial discounts, up to 90% off, on various products like clothing, electronics, jewelry, and homeware across Dubai during DSF. |
| Raffles and Giveaways | DSF is famous for thrilling raffles and giveaways, offering prizes like cars, luxury vacations, electronics, and cash prizes. |
| Entertainment and Events | Beyond shopping, DSF includes entertainment such as concerts, fireworks displays, and fashion shows for a complete festive experience. |
Dubai Shopping Festival Tips
- Plan Early: Book flights and accommodations in advance due to the festival’s popularity.
- Compare Prices: Explore different stores for better deals.
- Early Bird Deals: Start shopping early for the best discounts.
- Stay Patient: Expect crowds and be patient during the shopping rush.
Dubai Food Festival
For all those who love cooking or eating delicious meals, consider attending the Dubai Food Festival. Here, you can get the opportunity to taste Dubai’s some of the most exquisite cuisine. The 10th edition of the Dubai Food Festival was a huge success, bringing more excitement than ever.
With over 95,000 visitors to Etisalat by e& Beach canteen, 100 unique Foodie Experiences, 13,000 diners during Dubai Restaurant Week, and 10 Dirham Dishes at 200 outlets, DFF 2023 was a continuous feast of fun and delicious food.
Dubai Food Festival Highlights
| Eclectic Culinary Experiences | Explore a diverse range of culinary delights, from Michelin-starred restaurants to street vendors, offering traditional Emirati cuisine, international flavors, and hidden gems. |
| Cooking Masterclasses | Enhance your cooking skills with hands-on masterclasses led by renowned chefs, unveiling the secrets of exquisite dishes and expanding your culinary repertoire. |
| Interactive Culinary Events | Engage in food tastings, cooking demonstrations, and chef challenges, witnessing culinary creativity and broadening your gastronomic horizons. |
| Festive Atmosphere | Immerse yourself in the lively festival ambiance with live music, performances, and street entertainment, adding to the excitement of savoring culinary delights. |
Look out for updates on Dubai Food Festival 2024, and in the meantime, continue enjoying the city’s fantastic dining scene.
National Day Festival
UAE National Day is celebrated on December 2nd every year in the United Arab Emirates. Ras al Khaimah, the seventh emirate, joined the federation on February 10, 1972, marking the final addition to the UAE. Tourists and residents alike enjoyed musical extravaganzas and took advantage of eating specials, exclusive hotel stays, and special retail deals around the city. Dubai sparkled with festive lighting and decorations while the skies were filled with fireworks to honor the exciting 51st anniversary.
Celebration of UAE National Day
| Grand Celebrations | Festivities take place across the country, featuring fireworks, car rallies, and dance shows as the main attractions. |
| Colorful Dress-Up | People don the colors of the UAE national flag, decorating homes, workplaces, cars, and streets to commemorate the day. |
| Illuminated Palm Trees | Palm trees are adorned with lights matching the flag’s colors, adding to the festive ambiance. |
| City Decor | Downtown Dubai sparkles with fireworks, and the Burj Khalifa proudly displays the UAE flag, attracting crowds eager to witness the grand celebration. |
| National Spirit | Hotels, public sites, shopping centers, and malls proudly showcase the country’s flag and lights in celebration. |
| Heritage Villages | Traditional Heritage Villages are established throughout the UAE to honor the event in a cultural manner. |
| Two-Day Holiday | National Day is typically a two-day holiday, with December 3rd as a public holiday. |
| Air Shows and Processions | Air shows and military processions take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, attended by rulers, members of the Federal National Council, and Emirati citizens. |
