Dubai has unveiled the landmark 10th edition of its Retail Calendar, setting the stage for a year of major festivals and events that reinforce the emirate’s position as a global hub for shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Launched by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the 2026 calendar features 18 citywide events spanning retail, fashion, culture, fitness, and digital activations. The milestone edition builds on record performance in 2025 and celebrates a decade of growth that has united more than 1,000 brands and 4,000 outlets across Dubai.

Anchoring the year is the 31st Dubai Shopping Festival, running from 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, with an expanded program of discounts, concerts, drone shows, raffles, and family-friendly attractions. Other recurring pillars include Dubai Summer Surprises, the Dubai Home Festival, and the Festival of Lights.

The calendar also marks significant cultural and community occasions such as Ramadan and Eid in Dubai, Chinese New Year, Eid Al Adha, and UAE National Day. The Dubai Fitness Challenge returns for its 10th anniversary, continuing its mission to encourage daily activity among residents and visitors.

Digital-first consumers will benefit from the Great Online Sale, while gaming fans can look forward to the fifth edition of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival after its record-breaking attendance and participation in 2025.

According to DFRE, the expanded lineup underscores Dubai’s commitment to innovation and its strategy to enhance economic vitality through engaging, multicultural, and inclusive experiences.

  • Dubai Shopping Festival: 5 Dec 2025 to 11 Jan 2026
  • Chinese New Year: 13 to 22 Feb 2026
  • Dubai Fashion Season: Q1–Q4 2026
  • Ramadan and Eid in Dubai: 16 Feb to 22 Mar 2026
  • Dubai Esports and Games Festival: 8 to 24 May 2026
  • Eid Al Adha: 22 to 31 May 2026
  • Dubai Summer Surprises: 3 Jul to 30 Aug 2026
  • Dubai Home Festival: 16 Oct to 1 Nov 2026
  • Festival of Lights (Diwali): 2 to 12 Nov 2026
  • Dubai Fitness Challenge: 31 Oct to 29 Nov 2026
  • Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day): 30 Nov to 3 Dec 2026

News Source: Dubai Media Office