DSF 2009 begins today

DSF 2009 is backed by the strong participation of 40 shopping malls and over 6000 retail outlets that are offering massive discounts on international brands.

Laila Suhail, CEO of DSF Office said:

"Every DSF edition is the result of careful planning, extensive research, and innovation which plays a major role in the success of the event. As a city that hosts more than 200 nationalities, Dubai's social fabric is an inspiration for us to organize events and activities that are truly global in nature and this element will be very much visible in DSF 2009."

The theme for this year's DSF, 'Celebrate the Festivities', highlights the event as an exclusive period where visitors can enjoy the best of four seasons in a year. Apart from renowned international entertainment acts and huge discounts, shoppers stand the chance to win prizes worth millions of dirhams through raffles giving away luxury cars and cash.

First day of DSF 2009

Signature Events

Signature Events for the opening day of DSF 2009 include the DSF Desert Camp by Watani, Dubai Carnivals, and Carpet Oasis. The DSF Desert Camp by Watani will be held at Warqa'a 4 where residents and visitors can take part in an extensive range of outdoor activities for a day or even rent a tent to stay. While the Dubai Carnivals will feature around 300 performers on Jan 15 at Al Seef Street, Carpet Oasis, a haven of carpets and rugs from around the world, will begin at the Airport Expo Dubai.

Global Village

Global Village will host a number of cultural events for visitors featuring dance groups from Africa, China, Americas, Egypt, Lebanon, Nepal, Thailand, Ukraine, Russia and, Yemen. Those looking for an adrenaline rush can head to the Fun Fair that features amazing rides and for a more serene ride, Italian gondolas are available at specially made canal.

Al Seef Street

As one among the main attractions of this DSF, Al Seef Street presents a wide range of entertainment and shopping options for visitors of all age categories. The venue will host the famed Night Souk, offering bargains on a range of brands from evening till the early hours of morning. A specially designed stage will host entertainment shows from 5pm to 10pm and floating restaurants parked along the Creek will serve a variety of cuisines. The venue will also stage the anxiously awaited draws at 9pm apart from the Dubai Carnivals at 8pm.

DSF 2009 Lexus Mega Raffle

Jan 15 will witness the first day of the Lexus Mega Raffle where one winner will take home two Lexus models - the RX350 and the ES350, in addition to AED 100,000 as cash in various currencies. The draw will be held on a specially set-up stage at Al Seef Street at 9pm.

The Walk at JBR Activities

The Walk at JBR is the latest addition to Dubai's shopping and leisure destinations. Located in New Dubai, the Walk at JBR will be one among the colourful venues hosting DSF events. The Walk will include activities such as street paintings, recycled art displays, metal art, stand-up comedy shows, sand sculptures, photography displays, and kiosk selling fashion accessories and handicraft.

In-Mall Events

The famed touring circus group, the Chinese State Circus, will be a major highlight at Dubai Festival City in addition to a Floating Stage, the Thursday Night Rhythm, and the Festival Centre Fun Fair. Al Ghurair City and Dubai Outlet Mall will showcase the Peru and Mexico cultural lifestyle shows while Mercato will host the Masked Parade.

Heritage Events

As an integral element of every DSF edition, Heritage shows, activities, and displays will be held across various venues from Jan 15 onwards. The Shindagha Heritage Area will be the focus of events in addition to numerous other activities at the Hatta Heritage Village.

Other attractions

Jumeirah Road Drive Through Festivities
Stretching along the scenic Jumeirah Road, visitors will find the street transformed into a carnival of sorts this DSF. Cafes and restaurants will set up tables in the open and a host of international performers are slated to entertain diners, passers-by, and those simply driving along. The venue has been designed in a way that families can drive up in a car and get their favourite cup of coffee or a meal at a hand's stretch.