Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) has returned, lighting up the city with vibrant energy, unbeatable deals and world-class entertainment. Running until the end of August, this much-anticipated annual festival has something for everyone, whether you're a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, or simply looking to make the most of the summer season.
DSS was first launched in 1998 by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment as a way to boost tourism and retail during the typically quieter summer season. Over time, it has become a cornerstone of Dubai's growth and its reputation as a year-round tourist destination.
July promises to be one of the most exciting months on the DSS calendar, packed with events, shopping offers, and dining experiences that make summer in Dubai truly unforgettable.
What You Can Expect
July is bursting with activities, kicking off with Dubai Summer Restaurant Week from 4 to 13 July. This culinary celebration invites diners to explore specially curated two and three-course menus at some of the city’s top restaurants, all at pocket-friendly prices. It's the perfect excuse to discover new flavours and revisit old favourites in a city known for its diverse dining scene.
And while you're enjoying the culinary scene, don’t forget to get your steps in. DSS is also turning the city’s malls into indoor race tracks. One of the highlights is the RX Summer Run on 6 July at City Centre Mirdif. Adults can challenge themselves in the 3km or 5km race, while children aged 4 to 15 can participate in an energetic 850m sprint. Registration is priced at Dhs 47.25, and all runners receive medals and certificates. For those who finish on top, cash prizes, shopping vouchers, and SHARE points await. Another exciting run takes place at Ibn Battuta Mall on 13 July, offering race distances of 2.5km, 5km, and 10km, catering to both casual joggers and serious runners. Early bird registration starts from Dhs 85, with branded t-shirts and finisher medals up for grabs
For shoppers, July is a treasure trove of bargains. With citywide sales offering up to 90% off across thousands of brands, you will see malls buzzing with flash sales, exclusive promotions and daily surprises. Participating venues include Mercato Mall, all Majid Al Futtaim malls including Mall of the Emirates, along with Dubai Festival City Mall and more. Retail therapy doesn’t get better, or more rewarding, than this.
Adding to the excitement are the much-loved DSS raffles. Every shopping trip could turn into a life-changing moment, with prizes ranging from luxury cars to jewellery and shopping vouchers. Simply shop at participating outlets above a certain amount, and you’re in the running, with winners being announced weekly. Among the headline giveaways are a brand new Polestar 4 LRSM for those who spend Dhs 300 or more at Dubai Festival City Mall, and a Jetour T1 SUV up for grabs if you shop for Dhs 200 or more at Mercato Mall. These high-value prizes bring a thrilling edge to every shopping spree.
Entertainment takes centre stage as well, with DSS Entertainer returning with 7,500 buy-one-get-one-free offers across a selection of hotels, dining spots, gyms, spas, and attractions for Dhs 195 at destinations like Wild Wadi Water Park, Motiongate Dubai and more. Families, couples, and adventure-seekers can enjoy big savings at top attractions, while hotel and dining offers help locals and visitors experience more of Dubai for less. Whether you're looking for an indulgent spa treatment, a gourmet night out, or a thrill-packed amusement park day, the DSS Entertainer makes it all more accessible.
Don't miss major shows and events, including Beat the Heat concert series at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 4 to 13 July, Adonis at Dubai Opera on 3 July, TJ Monterde at Coca-Cola Arena on 13 July and Shreya Ghoshal at DWTC on 19 July, among others. Families can also enjoy interactive shows, pop-up attractions, and visits from DSS mascots Modesh and Dana at malls across the city, keeping the little ones just as engaged as the grown-ups.
With so much happening throughout the month, DSS in July is a celebration not to be missed. Whether you're here for the blockbuster shopping deals, looking to break a sweat at one of the mall runs, or simply eager to experience the entertainment and surprises sprinkled across the city, DSS offers a summer calendar unlike any other. And July is just the beginning.