Dubai is celebrating Eid al-Adha with an extensive array of cultural and entertainment activities across the city, designed to bring families and friends together while providing unforgettable experiences during this festive occasion.

The events include musical performances, theatrical plays, and children’s activities, alongside shopping promotions and hospitality offerings at top restaurants and hotels.

A comprehensive program has been organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), running from June 2 to June 8. Souheila Ghobash, the Vice President of Planning and Operations for Festivals at DFRE, stated that the celebratory events are part of the ‘Eid in Dubai’ initiative, which aims to provide rich and varied experiences suitable for all family members.

Activities will span live music, cultural events, and family-oriented events in various shopping malls throughout the city.

Exclusive hotel packages and significant retail promotions will also be available, along with valuable prizes, positioning Eid as a unique occasion for both residents and visitors.

Ghobash emphasized the importance of providing exceptional experiences by collaborating with partners in both the public and private sectors.

Families are a primary focus, as plans concentrate on delivering an integrated experience that combines entertainment, culture, and freshness.

For instance, families can enjoy an Arabic play titled ‘Great Wishes’ performed at the Zabeel Theatre in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.

Shopping centers are transforming into comprehensive entertainment hubs, such as Mercato Mall, which will host family-friendly events, including live children's shows, cotton candy stands, craft workshops, as well as exclusive discounts through the ‘Privilege Plus’ app.

Tourism is further enhanced through special offers for families visiting Dubai’s attractions, such as discounts at the Dubai Dolphinarium, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and interactive summer experiences at LEGOLAND, along with events at The Green Planet, Kayo Karting, and Hatta Wadi Hub, among others.

The program also aims to provide a diverse artistic and cultural experience that showcases Dubai’s identity as a global destination that celebrates all cultures.

According to Ghobash, the criteria for selecting artists and performances involve their popularity and ability to attract large audiences, ensuring a variety of performances in music, theater, and comedy to create a comprehensive experience for attendees.

Notable events this season include a concert by the renowned Arab artist Mohammed Abdu, global comedy shows featuring French artist Romain Frayssinet and Indian comedian Sharadha Jain, along with the play ‘A Thousand and One Nights and a Wedding.’ Ghobash highlighted that the diversity of artistic works is essential to engage audiences in the vibrant city of Dubai, with ongoing efforts to attract top-level talent to deliver exceptional experiences during the festive seasons.

In the culinary sphere, Dubai holds a prominent position in the region for its gastronomy and culinary arts, featuring restaurants and chefs recognized with Michelin stars.

Ghobash noted the emphasis on showcasing these extraordinary dining destinations during Eid with unique culinary experiences that allow locals and visitors to enjoy authentic flavors in festive environments.

Among the highlights of this season are luxurious Eid dinners at Enigma restaurant and upscale tea sessions at the Mosaic Lounge, in addition to diverse dishes offered by renowned establishments such as Farik, Palm Kitchen, Punjab Grill, and Dabba Lin.

Ghobash asserted that the seasonal event schedule, particularly during holidays, is pivotal in supporting and revitalizing tourism, both for domestic visitors from across the UAE and incoming tourists.

The meticulously designed activity schedule caters to diverse interests, enhancing Dubai's appeal as a comprehensive entertainment and cultural destination.

This strategy aims to increase hotel occupancy rates and attract more visitors to tourist attractions and shopping centers, thus extending the duration of stays and encouraging repeat visits.

Events contribute to the local economy by boosting expenditure in various sectors including hospitality, retail, transportation, and entertainment.

The organized activities reinforce Dubai's prominence as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, showcasing the exceptional experiences that highlight the city's vibrant diversity in alignment with the goals set by the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

In addition to entertainment and cultural offerings, shopping remains a fundamental pillar during festive seasons in Dubai.

Ghobash explained that the shopping events are meticulously developed to meet public expectations and stimulate the retail sector, collaborating with major partners from shopping centers and brands.

Notably, the ‘3 Days of Mega Discounts’ event was organized ahead of Eid al-Adha, allowing the public to take advantage of price reductions reaching up to 90% on a wide range of products.

Ghobash emphasized that this initiative arises to meet the growing demand and to offer a rewarding shopping experience for participants.

DFRE relies on the ‘Dubai Annual Retail Calendar,’ which includes diverse campaigns and promotional events throughout the year, covering holiday seasons and special occasions, thereby serving as a strategic framework to stimulate consumer spending and reinforce Dubai's status as a premier shopping destination.