The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), has lauded the solid partnership between the government and private sectors, describing it as a unique role model of public-private collaboration that works collectively with a single-minded purpose to achieve the common goal of promoting a destination.

The role played by the private sector is one of the cornerstones of the success of Dubai government driven retail initiatives like the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), and their crucial contribution has once again come into sharp focus at the 22nd edition of DSF, which started on Monday, 26 December.

Some of the biggest private sector entities in the UAE have come together to support DSF 2017, one of the major annual festivals organised by DFRE. The latest edition of the world’s longest running festival of its kind runs until 28 January, providing 34 days of unique shopping experiences combined with big winnings and world-class entertainment.

Reflecting on the long-standing partnership between DFRE and its Strategic Partners and Key Sponsors, Saeed Mohammad Measam Al Falasi, Executive Director, Retail and Strategic Alliances, DFRE, said:  “Dubai Shopping Festival has proven its importance as a global attraction and has raised the bar of excellence in the festivals and events industry in the region to new heights. This would have not been possible without the support and commitment of our stakeholders. We are delighted to welcome back all our partners in the private sector for what will truly be a unique collaborative effort during DSF 2017.  It is this excellent synergy between us and our partners that has helped pave the way for a memorable and rewarding experience every year during DSF in the form of unbeatable shopping offers, life-changing daily raffles and diverse entertainment.”

The start of the 22nd edition of DSF also marked the launch of the Dubai Retail Calendar, a new retail initiative that contains the full programme of anchor retail activities and experiences being conducted and promoted citywide. 

DSF 2017 events and activations will be run under three themed retail segments – Apparel & Fashion, Beauty & Perfume and Gold & Jewellery – that reflects the varied shopping experiences in store for residents and visitors, and also the important role played by the retail sector.

The exciting shopping spirit generated by DSF will spread far and wide across the emirate with thousands of retail outlets offering incredible deals including discounts of up to 75% on a range of merchandise. 

For 2017, DFRE’s strategic partners are Emirates, AW Rostamani Group, The Dubai Mall, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, Dubai Festival City, Mercato, Paris Gallery, ENOC, Nakheel Malls, Dubai Duty Free, Meraas and Etisalat. Additionally, the key sponsors of DSF 2017 are Visa and Jumbo Group.

Emirates
“From world-class shopping malls, water parks, beaches and hotels, to hosting international events and festivals including Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), Dubai has become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the world. With the ongoing developments and opening of new attractions such as Dubai Canal and Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai continues to offer something unique for everyone whether they’re here to dine, shop, rest or venture.  Emirates is proud to have sponsored DSF since its inception in 1998. We are committed to developing Dubai into a world-leading tourism and business destination,” said Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Emirates Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Centre. 

“DSF has grown to become one of the most important events on Dubai’s calendar and has raised the profile of the city as a premier shopping destination, thanks to a robust entertainment and activity mix. Emirates is committed to support the government’s 2020 vision to position Dubai as the number one destination for tourism and business both on a regional and international level, “ he added.

The Dubai Mall
Nasser Rafi, Chief Executive Officer of Emaar Malls, said: “Dubai Shopping Festival underlines the city’s reputation as a global business and leisure hub, and welcomes visitors from across the world. As a strategic partner in driving the retail and leisure sector of Dubai, Emaar Malls is supporting DSF with a wide range of festivities across our mall assets. With the focus of DSF on family visitors, we have activities that would appeal to all, in addition to festive sales across the retail outlets. We are confident that DSF 2017 will record robust growth in visitor arrivals and further contribute to the city’s economy.”

Majid Al Futtaim Properties (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Me’aisem, Mall of the Emirates)
“Majid Al Futtaim has been a proud strategic partner of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) and Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) for almost two decades, transforming the retail landscape in the region and contributing to Dubai’s economy and growth in both retail and tourism sectors.  For the 22nd edition of the renowned world-class shopping festival, we look forward to delivering our founder’s promise of creating great moments for everyone, everyday. Majid Al Futtaim’s five lifestyle destinations in Dubai: Mall of the Emirates, City Centres Deira, Mirdif, Me’aisem and for the first time City Centre Al Shindagha and My City Centre Al Barsha, will delight millions of tourists and residents with a spectacular array of unique entertainment, including performances from international celebrities and glittering fashion shows, thrilling promotions and amazing prizes to win,” said Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Senior Director – Property Development, Shopping Malls for Majid Al Futtaim.