Dubai plays host to many festivals and events throughout the year. The following are just a few of the many events that attract visitors to this amazing city, there are just too many to mention!
January / February
Dubai Shopping Festival – Dubai is regarded as shopper’s paradise all year round with January being an excellent time to grab some bargains. Millions of people visit the city’s shops during the Shopping Festival which takes place throughout January. There are also firework displays, concerts and children’s entertainment which offer a welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of the shopping frenzy.
Dubai Marathon – This is a charity fund raising event where participants pay a small entrance fee with the hope of winning a large cash prize. The event consists of three different races; the 3km fun run, the 10km road race for over 15′s and the 50km marathon for 18′s and over.
February / March
Dubai Tennis Championships – Consisting of an Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), the Dubai Open is held at the Aviation Club, attracting the best tennis players from all over the world.
Dubai Desert Classic – This is one of the most popular golfing events held in the UAE. Held at the Emirates Golf Club, the event attracts some of the world’s top golfers who participate for the chance to win large money prizes.
Dubai International Jazz Festival – If you love your Jazz why not attend this annual festival on your package holidays to Dubai. Past acts have included Jamie Cullum, Robin Gibb, Toto and Stanley Jordan.

Nad Al Sheba Racecourse
March / April
Emirates World Series, The Dubai World Cup – With a six million US dollar prize, this is the world’s richest horse race. Attracting the best jockeys, trainers and horses from all over the world, all the action takes place at the state-of-the-art Nad Al Sheba Racecourse.
Dubai Desert Rock – An amazing two day music festival which has featured such artists as Iron Maiden, The Prodigy, The Darkness and Megadeth.
Dubai Art Fair – Attracting the world’s best artists who display their works at The Madinet Jumeirah.
April / May
The Bride Show – Held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, this wedding themed event attracts hundreds of exhibitors from all over the UAE.
Festival of Taste – If you love food, this is the event not to miss. Held at The Madinat Jumeirah, the festival runs for a whole week with the

Madinat Jumeirah
world’s top chefs preparing specialities for various social events whilst giving tips on cooking and presentation.
June / July / August
Dubai Summer Surprises – Designed to encourage tourists to visit Dubai at the peak of hottest part of the year. Spread over 10 weeks, the DSS (Dubai Summer Surprises) are split into different themes such as food, the arts, adventure and nature. Many of the hotels in the city offer special ‘shopaholic’ travel deals to attract more guests to Dubai.
September /October
Motexha Textile Show – Attracting exhibitors and visitors from across the region, this annual trade fair is the largest of its kind in the Middle East. Held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, the show features more than 500 exhibitors covering all aspects of the clothing and textile trade.
October / November
UAE Desert Challenge – Starting off in Abu Dhabi and finishing in Dubai, this rally is the last race in the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup. If you love fast cars this five day event is for you.
Desert Rhythm – A fairly new two day music festival where such artists as Kanye West and the British singer/songwriter Mika have introduced themselves to the UAE.
November / December
National Day Festival – Dubai’s National Day Festival is celebrated every year, marking the Emirate’s independence from Great Britain. The city puts on many special events for the public throughout the day.

Dubai Exiles Rugby Club
Dubai Rugby Sevens – Every year the Dubai Exiles Rugby Club plays host to the first round of the IRB Sevens Series. This three day event sees 16 International rugby teams compete for the series trophy. Shows and events for all ages add to the fun of this exciting event.
Dubai International Film Festival – Aimed at independent and art-house cinema, this festival gives them the chance to show their work to large audiences with special guests.
Connect with Us