Dubai: DSF Drone Show returns with brighter displays and new pyro effects
Nora Fatehi set for e& DSF Nights performance at Festival Bay
DUBAI – The Dubai Shopping Festival opens today, bringing back one of its most popular attractions – the DSF Drone Show above Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.
The nightly displays return bigger and sharper, with more than 1,000 LED drones forming high-precision visuals in the sky. Visitors can enjoy two shows each evening at 8pm and 10pm throughout the festival season.
The first production, Dubai, City of Dreams, runs until 25 December and celebrates the emirate’s evolution, blending sweeping formations with detailed imagery of its landmarks. From 26 December to 11 January, Celebrations takes over with bold colour bursts, high-energy transitions and graphics designed to uplift crowds along the waterfront.
Ain Dubai joins the experience
For the first time, Ain Dubai joins the experience with a synchronised lighting sequence, adding a giant illuminated backdrop to the drone formations. This season also introduces drone-powered pyro elements used twice in each show, enhancing the pace and vibrancy of the performances.
Both displays are free to attend, drawing families and visitors to the waterfront nightly. Early arrival is advised for those aiming to secure clear viewing points along the beachfront.
Festival add-ons
The DSF calendar expands beyond JBR and Bluewaters, bringing a range of entertainment across the city. At Dubai Festival City Mall, e& DSF Nights returns with a headline performance by Nora Fatehi on 6 December at Festival Bay. The venue will also host fireworks from 5 December to 11 January, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Hatta Wadi Hub welcomes adventure lovers with DSF x Hatta Wadi Hub activities running from 5 to 31 December. The area will also feature fireworks every Friday and Saturday until the end of the month.
New experiences
A special highlight for Hatta is the arrival of a first-of-its-kind cinema dome by ROXY Cinemas in collaboration with the festival. Operating from 5 to 31 December, the dome offers an immersive movie-watching experience in the mountains, combining outdoor settings with advanced projection technology.
Visitors can follow the full DSF schedule of events, shows and offers at the official festival website. With drones, fireworks, concerts and unique outdoor attractions, the 2025–2026 edition sets the tone for one of Dubai’s most vibrant winter seasons.