FROM LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY TO A CELEBRATION OF THE SMURFS: PERFORMANCES AND SHOWS SET TO DAZZLE AND DELIGHT THIS DSF
Legendary British funnyman Michael McIntyre brings his unique brand of comedy to DSF
Smurf Village celebrates 65 years of the colourful characters at Mirdif City Centre during DSF
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 30 December 2023: Laughter, wonder and delight will fill the air at destinations citywide this Dubai Shopping Festival as some of the world’s finest comedians, most talented actors, and best loved characters gather for a wonder-filled line-up of live performances this festive season.
As Dubai’s favourite retail festival continues in spectacular fashion, there are mesmerising performances for everyone to discover in every corner of the city this winter. Take your pick from laugh out loud stand-up, immersive retro music experiences, fun-filled meet and greets, and captivating theatrical shows and make this a season when memories are made.
Vibrant beats and musical talents at Tunes DXB
Tunes DXB is making a triumphant return with an impressive lineup of live music for this DSF. Immerse yourself in vibrant beats and melodies set against the stunning winter backdrop at various locations across the city. From 5 to 14 January, music enthusiasts can enjoy these free shows at 10 different citywide locations, including Al Khawaneej Walk, Al Seef, BoxPark, Bluewaters, Dubai Festival City Mall, Last Exit Al Khawaneej, and DxBike.
A-List Stand-up Comedy
Comedy fans are in for a treat this DSF as BAFTA-winning comic and British funnyman Michael McIntyre takes to the stage at Coca-Cola Arena. The stand-up icon is in town for one night only on 13 January with his brand new show MACNIFICENT! and it’s sure to be a night to remember. Tickets to see the show, packed with hilarious one-liners and laugh-out-loud anecdotes, are on sale now. It’s sure to be a sell-out, so book your tickets before it’s too late!
Catch the multi-award-winning comedian Omid Djalili live in his uproarious show ‘The Namaste’ on 7 January at Dubai World Trade Centre. Known for his comedic prowess, Djalili’s stand-up sets are a brilliant blend of humour and insightful observations that connect with audiences globally. From Hollywood films like Mama Mia 2 to television, Netflix shows, and the iconic West End in London, Djalili is a familiar face across various platforms.
Discover Bling, Bands and Beats at City Walk
Don’t miss the next instalment of Music through the Ages, which is currently entertaining the crowds at City Walk. This weekend, from today (29 December) until New Year’s Eve, features incredible pop throwbacks for the latest theme ‘Bling, Bands & Beats’. From the irresistible charm of Justin Timberlake to the infectious beats of Beyoncé, and of course, the unforgettable moves of the ‘Crank That (Soulja Boy)’ dance sensation, awe-inspiring performers will take everyone on a journey through the 2000s where music and dance collide with a whirlwind of immersive nostalgia. Artists include Danny Aridi, Eirin, Taylor, DJ Keza and The Ark.
The Smurfs are in Town!
At City Centre Mirdif, fans of the much-loved Smurfs are in for an extra-special treat as the colourful characters celebrate their 65th anniversary and make themselves at home in Smurf Village at City Centre Mirdif from 4 to 21 January.
Papa Smurf, Smurfette, Brainy Smurf, Hefty Smurf and Dr Eddie Mentary will all take to the stage for a wonder-filled family experience, while visitors to Smurf Village can enjoy an interactive and immersive experience across nine exceptional zones including Smurfs House, Muscle Zone, Painter Smurf, Chef Smurfs, Farmer Smurf and the Beauty Zone.
Entry to Smurf Village is as easy as one, two, three. First, pick up special vouchers from your favourite stores at City Centre Mirdif when you spend a minimum of Dh200. Second, validate receipts for an activation token. And third, stroll on over to Smurf Village and share your token for entry. The Smurfs Stage Show and Smurfs Meet & Greet is completely free and open for everyone to enjoy while at the mall.
Captivating Performances
With a groundbreaking score that captivated audiences when it released a whole five decades ago in 1973, Tubular Bells by English musician Mike Oldfield, will come to life at Dubai Opera on 12 January. There’s a reason why this album broke musical barriers, reached the number one spot on the US, Canadian and Australian Billboard charts and sold more than two million copies in the UK and 15 million copies across the globe. These tracks, which fuse orchestral instruments with experimental sounds, were used as the opening theme music in the Academy Award-winning film The Exorcist. Book your seats for this phenomenal tribute before it sells out.
Also, the audience can enjoy a captivating evening with the renowned Ekaterina Krysanova and Ivan Vasiliev, principal dancers of the Bolshoi, at the Dubai Opera. Alongside over 60 performers, they will present the acclaimed ballet “Le Corsaire” on January 6 and 7. This mesmerising production celebrates the 97th anniversary of Yuri Grigorovich, the chief choreographer of the Bolshoi Ballet. Prepare for an absolute delight, from breathtaking pirouettes to exquisite costumes and seamless set transitions that will transport you scene by scene.
Gear up for an unforgettable concert as EXO’s renowned members – Chanyeol, Xiumin, and Chen – take center stage at the Coca-Cola Arena for a one-night-only performance. Join the chorus as these talented artists illuminate the venue with their electrifying tunes on January 14.
Closing Weekend – 3.2.1. Festival
Stay tuned for the electrifying closing ceremony of DSF and immerse yourself in an out-of-this-world experience featuring a star-studded line-up of exciting live performances, and immersive digital show, the biggest drone shows in DSF history, breathtaking fireworks, stunning light installations, world-class artists, aerobatics by Al Fursan, craveable food with everything from homegrown street food favourites to gourmet delights.
Fans, get ready, as A-list Arab stars Hussain Al Jassmi, Tamer Hosny and Balqees are all set to perform live on stage for an unforgettable night of music and melody. Mark your calendars for this ultimate event and celebrate with friends and family on 13 January at the city’s premier waterfront destination, SKYDIVE DUBAI, from 4pm to 12:30am. Doors open at 3:30, and tickets can be purchased on Platinumlist, starting from AED 50 onwards, while kids 12 years old and under can go for free.
Experience exceptional entertainment and adventures for all, every day, in a city like no other, with the 29th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival. Running from 8 December 2023 to 14 January 2024, get set to see the city at its best during the most wonderful time of the year and enjoy Dubai’s perfect winter weather. Adventures are waiting to be discovered in every corner – from enchanting experiences to out of this world entertainment – each and every day, for 38 days. And of course, Dubai Shopping Festival promises the very best in retail experiences – with sales, discounts, pop-up markets featuring homegrown exclusives, high street favourites, the ultimate in luxury and a variety of retail offerings, with something for everyone.
To explore all that Dubai Shopping Festival has to offer, check out Visit Dubai and @CelebrateDubai, @DiscoverDubai and @StyledbyDubai on social media channels.
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About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment
Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai’s retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events.
