Vote for song
Merge 104.8 | 27 June 2024
Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the city will have 65 days of non-stop fun with a jam-packed calendar of electrifying events, incredible shopping experiences, brilliant bargains, thousands of offers and things to do, alongside prizes, diverse gastronomy, and never-seen-before hotel and attraction offers.
The CEO of DFRE, Ahmed Al Khaja, said: “This year’s Dubai Summer Surprises features the biggest summer line-up launched to date. Promising a memorable summer for everyone, we’ve designed an exceptional DSS programme that features thousands of offers and things to do for everyone, from families to friends and couples, and from value seekers and luxury explorers to adventure hunters. Catering to every preference and price point, Dubai has set out to outdo itself yet again as it offers a compelling alternative to traditional summer destinations, with world-class entertainment, endless offers, exciting adventures, and a vibrant culinary scene. We aim to make Dubai an unparalleled experience for residents and visitors this summer, delivering on the objectives of the D33 agenda to make Dubai one of the best places to live and work in the world.”
DSS OPENING WEEKEND
The DSS Opening Weekend Celebrations will light up Dubai’s malls on 28 and 29 June. City Centre Mirdif will feature captivating acts by Norwegian dance group Quick Style, Jordanian indie band Autostrad, Jordanian-Palestinian singer and songwriter Dana Salah, Iraqi–Canadian singer and songwriter Ali Gatie; while Mall of the Emirates will see DJ Keza, DJ Tala Samman, and DJ Sonya spin their beats alongside dance performances by Hallway Boyz, Moto Dancers, and a Bharatnatyam and Hip-Hop Fusion. Dubai Festival City Mall will host dazzling parades, mesmerising dances, and captivating stilt walkers as they create an unforgettable summer atmosphere.
Music lovers will get a chance to enjoy three opening weekend concerts including, Georges Wassouf and Al Shami at the Coca-Cola Arena on 28 June, Xzibit, D12, and Obie Trice also at the Coca-Cola Arena on 29 June, and Ethiopia’s biggest pop star Teddy Afro, who will perform at the venue on 30 June.
Deal hunters and bargain lovers should mark their calendars for the DSS 12 Hour Sale on 28 June. From 10am to 10pm, visitors can grab whopping discounts of up to 90 per cent off across more than 100 brands at Majid Al Futtaim malls and shop till they drop as they splurge on everything from fashion, and homeware to beauty, electronics, and more. Participating malls include City Center Al Shindagha, City Centre Deira, City Centre Me’aisem, City Centre Mirdif, and Mall of the Emirates.
Dubai’s favourite summertime destination, Modesh World, will add to the excitement with its 25th anniversary grand celebrations this year, welcoming the young and the young-at-heart to create unforgettable memories at one of the region’s largest indoor entertainment and amusement facilities. Families and children can expect a celebratory atmosphere brimming with endless excitement, thrilling live entertainment, unmissable events, fun and interactive workshops, and amazing giveaways. Kids can join Dubai’s beloved Modesh and his friend Dana for unforgettable adventures across 170 exhilarating rides and attractions, including an all-new Inflatable Park and Animal World Play Area, more than 100 arcade games and VR experiences, soft play areas, and much more. Plus, all taste buds are catered to with over 20 dining options, including a one-of-a-kind experience at the Modesh Cafe.
The DSS opening weekend will also see the launch of Movie Magic brought to you by DSS at all Roxy Cinemas across Dubai. The cinemas will be abuzz with activity during the opening weekend, where families can catch their favourite films on the big screen, complete with unlimited popcorn refills. Kids can unleash their creative genius via arts and crafts, face painting, games, and more. The wonderland of movie magic will continue throughout the summer, with a packed calendar of world premieres, special screenings and events, celebrity appearances, and much more. Visitors can expect daily surprises, win instant prizes, receive unexpected treats, and enjoy delicious combo deals on tickets and snacks.
CONCERTS AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
This summer, the Beat the Heat concert series returns for its 3rd edition, transforming Dubai World Trade Center into a vibrant hub of Indie Arabic music. Presented as a collaboration between Spotlighthive, Dubai Summer Surprises, and Dubai Calendar, this year’s edition goes beyond music to offer a full entertainment experience with games and F&B zones across two weekends – 12-13 July and 19-20 July. Performances from Siilawy, Marwan Moussa, and a line-up of regional stars like Dafencii, Hleem, and Soulja will set the stage ablaze, taking Dubai summer to a whole new level. What’s more, Dubai will welcome top performers like Abo El Anwar, Abyusif, Moscow, Big Sam, Noel Kharmen, and Aziz Maraka as they enthral audiences with their electrifying performances.
For classic music enthusiasts, the 2024 Symphonic Middle East Festival brings together a mesmerising performance by ST-DUO, a renowned piano duo alongside captivating tango by Argentinian dancers. The event opens on 5 July at Zabeel Theatre, Dubai.
FAMILY FUN AND OFFERS
Families can unwind with unbeatable summer staycation deals and extended getaways, perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Hundreds of hotels are offering Kids Go Free offers, making summer escapes even sweeter for families and children, along with iconic attractions like Madame Tussauds, The View at The Palm, Burj Khalifa At the Top, and the captivating AYA Universe. Additionally, dozens of top hotels and resorts across the city are offering riveting couples offers, including romantic getaways, wellness retreats, fine-dining experiences, unique date ideas, and many incredible experiences to explore together for less.
Those looking to enjoy maximum value this summer can grab the exclusive DSS Entertainer package, which unlocks over 7,000 buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) offers across a superb selection of the best dining, attractions, water parks, beauty, fitness locations and other destination experiences across Dubai. The DSS Entertainer is priced at just AED 195, with all exclusive offers being redeemable every day of the week. The DSS Entertainer is available until 1 September, and is valid from three months of the date of activation. What’s more, users can share BOGO vouchers with up to three friends. With such big savings on offer, there’s even more reasons for everyone to explore and enjoy more pocket friendly fun this DSS.
EXCLUSIVE RETAIL PROMOTIONS
Shopaholics can rejoice all summer long as DSS transforms Dubai into a shopper’s paradise with unbeatable deals and exciting promotions. Residents and visitors can dive into 10 weeks of retail bliss across more than 800 top brands at over 3,500 stores throughout the city, where discounts of up to 75 per cent await. From on-trend fashion finds to limited-time offers, DSS presents the perfect opportunity to snag incredible deals on coveted international and local brands on everything from lifestyle products and beauty essentials to cutting-edge electronics while scoring big savings. Participating stores sweeten the deal with a chance to win huge prizes, while exclusive weekly promotions offer even more ways for everyone to maximise their retail therapy.
The excitement doesn’t stop at everyday discounts. DSS unveils exclusive weekly promotions throughout the summer to shower shoppers with even more rewards – from amazing prizes with DSS Amber Millionaire, to incredible deals during DSS Beat the Clock with Rivoli Group, and sparkle all summer long with DSS Sparkling Week with Damas plus much more.
DSS Daily Surprises promises to be another exciting experience for bargain hunters from 2 July to 4 August, bringing 34 days of daily surprises across sports, fashion, beauty, and home labels. Details for each day’s surprise will only be unveiled 24 hours beforehand so stay tuned.
What’s more, DSS is giving shoppers the chance to win big with the SHARE Millionaire Win a Maserati campaign running from 28 June to 1 September. Shoppers who spend AED 300 or more at the Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, and City Centre Mirdif will automatically enter into a draw for the chance to win 1 Million SHARE points. 6 winners will be crowned throughout the summer, with one lucky shopper also cruising away in a brand new Maserati Grecale GT. To participate, visitors can simply scan their shopping receipts on the SHARE app or pay through SHAREPay at any of the participating malls.
Mall-goers can shop and win a Lexus with Dubai Festival City Mall upon spends of just AED 300, along with instant daily prizes. Plus, IHG hotel guests in Dubai unlock special discounts across the mall’s entertainment and F&B options.
Wafi City is launching its own Spend and Win campaign from 28 June to 1 September. Shoppers who spend a minimum of AED 300 across any outlet within the mall, including Wafi Restaurants, Wafi Health Club & Spa, Khan Murjan Souk, and Wafi Hotels will automatically enter into a grand raffle draw to win a dazzling 22.2 carat diamond necklace and earrings set in 18 carat white gold, valued at a magnificent AED 70,000. Adding to the excitement, there are also exciting giveaway prizes throughout the campaign.
DSS is a proud partner of Tickit this year, a first-of-its-kind rewards programme offering members an effortless and instant way to earn and redeem points. Shoppers can Win with Tickit from 28 June to 1 September and enter 5 raffle draws to win AED 10,000 when they make up to three purchases at participating outlets. Additionally, spends of over AED 500 through an ADCB card at partner locations increase shoppers’ chances of becoming one of 10 lucky winners to receive AED 10,000 in Tickit points.
GASTRONOMY
Dubai’s culinary scene heats up this summer with the sizzling return of the Summer Restaurant Week from 23 August to 1 September. Foodies are invited to embark on a delicious adventure with a curated list of 50 top family-friendly restaurants offering specially priced set menus for lunch and dinner. From internationally renowned hotspots to hidden gems, food aficionados can savour delectable dishes crafted by talented chefs across a diverse range of cuisines. Catering to all dining desires and budgets from casual family outings or fine-dining experiences, guests have the chance to explore new favourites or revisit old classics.
The foodie fun in Dubai this summer doesn’t end there. Kicking off on 15 July is the inaugural edition of Sizzling Summer Eats. For 30 days, foodies can enjoy incredible discounts on a curated list of 100 of Dubai’s best family-friendly restaurants starting at 20 per cent for two and rising up to 30 per cent for four diners, presenting the perfect way to enjoy time out with friends, family, and loved ones.
MALL ACTIVATIONS AND PROMOTIONS
To celebrate the UAE premiere of Despicable Me 4, Mall of the Emirates is launching an interactive activation featuring a thrilling ball-pit slide and quirky photo ops from 1-16 July. This family-friendly experience requires a minimum AED 300 mall spend, enticing visitors to shop and participate for a chance to win exciting prizes.
City Centre Deira will beat the summer heat by hosting indoor-themed fun and entertaining nights every Saturday and Sunday until 21 July at the Food Central from 6pm to 11pm; while City Centre Mirdif will host a thrilling e-gaming festival, as well as live performances by everyone’s favourite Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar characters, and several ways to win instant prizes.
Mercato Mall transforms into the ultimate summer destination for families this year. Dazzling daily circus entertainment runs from 28 June to 1 September, while the highly-anticipated summer slide promises thrilling experiences for all ages. Shoppers can also take advantage of the “Shop & Win” promotion offering customers the chance to win AED 5,000 weekly cash prize for every AED 200 spent.
But that’s not all. Iconic retail hotspots across the city are bringing together the best for DSS, including Box Park, The Outlet Village, Al Seef, Al Khawaneej Walk, and Last Exit Al Khawaneej.
SPECTACULAR RAFFLES
Making this summer even more memorable are multiple chances to win incredible prizes at participating stores across various citywide outlets – be it at the city’s iconic malls, community retail hotspots, or charming souks.
The Dubai Summer Surprises Raffle Campaign 2024 will put the keys to a brand-new GAC GS8 2024 in the hands of six lucky shoppers from 28 June to 1 September. Upon spends of AED 200 or more at 18 participating malls under the Dubai Shopping Malls Group, shoppers can automatically enter into the draw. Participating malls include Al Ghurair Center, Al Barsha South, Al Barsha Mall, Al Bustan Center, and more.
The Dubai Jewellery Group’s Glittering City of Gold Jewellery Deals brings summer sparkle to Dubai. From 10 June to 15 July, 150 participating jewellery outlets offer up to 50 per cent off diamonds and pearls along with reduced making charges on gold, exclusive gifts upon purchase, and raffle entries for a chance to win AED 100,000 worth of vouchers, and more.
Dubai’s malls will transform into back-to-school havens between 5-28 August with a much-awaited Back to School Raffle Campaign 2024. An AED 200 spend can get customers to score a digital raffle ticket and enter to win a share of AED 100,000. 20 winners have the opportunity to take home AED 5,000 each.
The DSS Mega Raffle from 16 June to 26 August will bring 8 lucky winners the chance to cruise into the summer in brand new Mini Coopers. Shoppers can buy raffle coupons for AED 50 at ENOC stations or select malls, with every 10,000 tickets sold resulting in a draw.
CITYWIDE SUMMER CAMPS
Children across the city can embark on endless creative adventures with exceptional summer camps at leading attractions. Ski Dubai is back with its enthralling summer camp from 1 July to 30 August, calling young explorers to celebrate summer in the snow. Offering daily or weekly passes for kids aged 4-12 years, Ski Dubai opens the doors to lots of fun and learning with snow sports, educational programmes, trips to VOX Cinemas and the Magic Planet, and much more. Daredevils and adventurers can also conquer the Dubai Ice Warrior Challenge as they navigate through a maze of 20 daring obstacles to reach the finish line.
L’ÉCOLE Middle East School of Jewellery Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, brings together highly immersive jewellery arts workshops from 1-13 July. With classes designed for both kids and adults, it is the perfect opportunity to bond with loved ones this summer. From creative kids workshops to advanced courses in art history of jewellery and world of gemstones, with all proceeds from the programme going towards Dubai Cares.
Expo City Dubai is calling young explorers aged 5-12 years to enjoy enriching summer experiences from 8 July – 23 August. Offering the perfect blend of laughter, learning, and lasting memories, the camp is packed with creative activities, hands-on workshops, thrilling outdoor discoveries, and endless fun.
The Al Shindagha Museum Summer Camp will immerse children aged 6-13 years in thrilling challenges and mind-blowing indoor activities. Running over two weeks, from 15-19 July and 22-26 July, children will have the opportunity to hone their critical thinking, physical prowess, and problem-solving.
CITY DECOR AND AMBIANCE
As always, DSS arrives in style this year with a vibrant atmosphere brimming with stunning themed structures, captivating lighting displays, iconic branding illuminating the city, and enthralling performing arts. Bringing the top performers, dances, musicals, aerial shows, and more, these city-wide activations will bring endless excitement to Dubai all summer.
Moreover, everyone’s favourite mascots, Modesh and Dana, will pop up as larger-than-life statues across Dubai and vibrant DSS flags will be displayed across prominent locations, ensuring the spirit of DSS is felt citywide.
Dubai Summer Surprises 2024 is supported by key sponsors Al Futtaim (Dubai Festival City Mall and Dubai Festival Plaza), Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, and Mall of Emirates), Dubai Holding Asset Management (Al Seef, Bluewaters, City Walk, The Beach, and The Outlet Village), Mercato Shopping Mall, Merex Investment, Nakheel (Ibn Battuta, Nakheel Mall, and The View at The Palm); as well as AW Rostamani, Emirates Airlines, ENOC, e&, and talabat.
For more information, visit @CelebrateDubai on social media and the Dubai Summer Surprises website.
