Have you ever bought something at full price, only to spot it marked down just days later? In the UAE, that feeling is all too common. With a major sale in Dubai happening almost every month from the iconic Dubai Shopping Festival to summer sale events, Eid sale promotions, and Black Friday shopping deals, timing makes all the difference.
This complete 2026 month-wise calendar helps you track Dubai shopping offers and plan smarter so you never miss the best deals in Dubai again.
Key Takeaways
| Month | Event | Duration | Discount Up To | Best Categories |
| January | Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF – closing days) | Until 11 Jan | Up to 90% | Fashion, electronics, beauty |
| February | Chinese New Year | 10 days | Varies | Jewellery, gifting |
March | Ramadan Begins | ~35 days | Varies | Groceries, modest fashion, home |
| Ramadan & Eid Al Fitr | Continues | Varies | Gifting, fashion, fragrance | |
May | Great Online Sale | 3 days | Up to 95% | Fashion, beauty, electronics |
| Dubai Esports & Games Festival | 17 days | Varies | Gaming, gadgets | |
| Eid Al Adha Retail Season | ~10 days | Varies | Fashion, electronics | |
| 3-Day Super Sale (Edition 1) | 3 days | Up to 90% | Fashion, home, beauty | |
| July – August | Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) | ~2 months | Up to 90% | Fashion, kids, electronics |
| August | Back to School | 2–3 weeks | Varies | Laptops, stationery, kidswear |
| October | Dubai Home Festival | 17 days | Up to 75% | Furniture, appliances |
November | Dubai Fitness Challenge Offers | 30 days | Varies | Activewear, fitness gear |
| Diwali Promotions | ~10 days | Varies | Jewellery, festive wear | |
| 3-Day Super Sale (Edition 2) | 3 days | Up to 90% | Fashion, electronics | |
| White / Yellow Friday | 3–10 days | Up to 80–90% | Electronics, appliances | |
| UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) | 4 days | Varies | Fashion, gifting | |
December | GITEX Global | 5 days | Event-led | B2B tech |
| 12-Hour Mega Sale | 12 hours | Up to 90% | Fashion, home | |
| End of Year / New Year Sale | 2–3 weeks | Varies | Partywear, electronics |
The Complete UAE Sale Calendar for 2026
This is your at-a-glance guide to every major shopping event happening across the UAE in 2026, mapped month by month so you can plan purchases with confidence. Use this calendar to catch the best sale in Dubai moments and avoid paying full price when bigger discounts are just around the corner.
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2025–26
Dates (Dec 2025 – Jan 2026 portion)
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) runs from 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, with the January 2026 portion covering 1–11 January. It traditionally kicks off the retail year and remains one of the most anticipated shopping events in the UAE.
Duration
DSF spans 38 days, making it one of the longest-running and most structured sale in Dubai periods. Unlike short flash promotions, this festival offers weeks of consistent Dubai shopping offers across categories.
Typical discount range
- 25%–75% is common across major categories, with some promotions marketed as going up to ~90% (usually clearance lines, selected SKUs, or limited-time drops).
Categories that usually get the strongest DSF deals
- Fashion & footwear (end-of-season markdowns + extra % off)
- Electronics & appliances (bundle pricing, trade-in deals, bank/wallet offers, warranty add-ons)
- Beauty, fragrances & grooming (gift sets, bundles, value packs)
- Home & lifestyle (furniture, décor, kitchen)
- Watches/jewellery (promos on selected pieces; “value-add” offers are common)
Best places to shop
- The Dubai Mall + Mall of the Emirates: biggest brand mix + heavy campaign activity across categories.
- City Centre malls (Mirdif / Deira / Me’aisem, etc.): strong family-shopping bundles and multi-brand promos (great for “one trip, many categories”).
- Dubai Outlet Mall: if you want the “already-discounted + extra % off” feel (best for fashion and shoes).
- Online store apps (mall brands): DSF promos often mirror online, so you can compare prices fast.
Ramadan & Eid in Dubai (Ramadan season + Eid Al Fitr lead-in)
Dates (Feb – Mar 2026 window)
Ramadan & Eid retail season in Dubai is scheduled from 16 February to 22 March 2026. This is the period when Dubai shopping offers start ramping up ahead of Eid, and the city moves into its most promotion-heavy weeks outside of DSF.
Duration
35 days — long enough that deals roll out in waves (early Ramadan promos, mid-season bundles, then peak Eid sale offers closer to the end).
Typical discount range (Ramadan + Eid Al Fitr season in Dubai)
- Groceries & essentials: often up to 60–70% off on selected pantry staples, bulk packs, and household items.
- Fashion & modest wear: commonly 30–70% off, with selected collections sometimes promoted higher near Eid.
- Beauty & fragrance: usually 20–60% off, strongest through gift sets, bundles, and value packs.
- Electronics & appliances: typically 10–60% off, with real savings often coming from bundles, cashback, or bank offers rather than flat discounts.
Categories that usually get the strongest Ramadan & Eid deals
- Groceries, FMCG & household essentials (highest promotion volume during Ramadan).
- Modest fashion & occasion wear (Eid outfits, footwear, handbags, family sets).
- Fragrances & beauty gifting (limited-edition sets and bundle pricing).
- Home & hosting essentials (tableware, cookware, décor, small kitchen appliances).
- Electronics & giftable gadgets (especially in the final week before Eid).
Best places to shop
- Mall-heavy shopping (Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, City Centres): strongest for modest fashion, fragrance gift sets, hosting/home essentials.
- Carrefour / Lulu / Union Coop: best for bundle pricing + family packs during Ramadan.
- Online groceries + quick commerce: fastest for price comparisons and coupon-led deals during peak weeks.
Chinese New Year Promotions (Dubai) — 2026
Dates (Feb 2026 window)
Chinese New Year celebrations and retail promotions in Dubai run from 13 February to 22 February 2026. It’s a short but high-visibility period where you’ll see themed campaigns, gifting pushes, and selective markdowns across malls and popular retail districts.
Duration
10 days — usually packed with time-bound promotions that change fast, so it’s worth checking Dubai mall offers early in the window.
Typical discount range
- Groceries/essentials: often 25%–60% on selected staples via hypermarkets and “savers” sections; cashback promos also appear.
- Some campaigns and retailer messaging mention up to ~65% and in certain cases up to ~70% on selected Ramadan items or limited-time deals (often very specific product groups).
Categories most strongly discounted
- Groceries & FMCG essentials (pantry staples, beverages, cleaning, household)
- Modest fashion & occasion wear (Eid outfits, family sets)
- Perfumes & gifting (gift packs, bundles, “buy more save more”)
- Home & hosting (tableware, kitchen appliances, décor)
- Electronics & appliances (retailer-led Ramadan offers, bundles)
Best places to shop
- Gold & jewellery hubs: big gifting push usually shows up here (offers vary by retailer).
- Major malls (Dubai Mall / Mall of the Emirates / City Centres): themed gifting campaigns + bundle-style promos are common.
- Hypermarkets + grocery chains: if you’re targeting pantry/household deals (more “value packs” than luxury markdowns).
Great Online Sale (3-Day Mega Sale – Date TBA)
Dates (2026 window)
The Great Online Sale Dubai is confirmed as a short, high-impact e-commerce event, but the 2026 dates haven’t been officially announced yet but usually held in May. What’s consistent is the pattern: it’s positioned as a 3-day online-only sale in Dubai’s retail calendar, and previous editions have typically landed in the late-March window—so expect something similar in 2026 (until DFRE publishes the exact days).
Duration
Officially a 3-day mega sale (and in some past years it expanded slightly), designed to create urgency and a “buy now” spike—exactly the kind of event people mean when they search for a sale in Dubai today and want instant deals.
Typical discount range
- Visit Dubai has promoted editions with deals up to ~95% off on selected items/brands.
- Retailers often advertise more typical caps like up to ~60% in electronics-led executions (varies by retailer/category).
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
This one is designed to be wide like DSF, but online-only:
- Fashion, shoes, accessories
- Health & beauty
- Baby & kids essentials
- Electronics
- Furniture & décor / home
Best places to shop
- Online marketplaces + big e-com retailers are the main event (this sale is built for online shopping).
- Shortlist these types of sites (based on official mentions): Noon, Sharaf DG, Jumbo, 6thStreet, Brands for Less, Damas, plus participating brand websites.
- Pro move: check brand apps first (app-only codes and limited-time drops are common in online-only events).
Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) 2026
Dates (May 2026 window)
Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) runs from 8 May to 24 May 2026. It’s one of the few “sale in Dubai” periods that’s built around gaming + tech, so the offers you’ll see are far more focused than a general shopping fest.
Duration
17 days, usually with rotating promotions (weekend drops, mid-festival bundles, and “final days” flash offers).
Typical discount range
DEF deals are often bundle-led, not just flat markdowns. In practical terms, shoppers usually see:
- Gaming accessories & peripherals: ~10%–50% (headsets, keyboards, mice, controllers)
- Laptops / monitors / TVs: ~10%–30% (often paired with freebies or extended add-ons)
- Consoles & big-ticket gaming gear: usually smaller discounts, but better value bundles (free games, extra controller, subscriptions, gift cards)
- Games / subscriptions / digital add-ons: ~20%–70% depending on platform and title
So if you’re chasing the best deals in Dubai on gaming gear, DEF can beat random mid-season promos—especially when the bundle value is strong.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though it’s a festival, DEF’s shopping angle is very “online-first”—meaning deals are easiest to spot on retailer websites/apps and then verified in-store if needed. Typical categories include:
- Gaming: consoles, controllers, accessories, gaming chairs/desks
- Electronics: laptops, tablets, monitors, TVs, audio
- Mobile & gadgets: selected phones, wearables, accessories
- Toys/collectibles & pop-culture merch: depending on participating retailers
- Entertainment bundles: memberships, digital credits, add-ons (where available)
Best places to shop
- Electronics retailers (online + in-store): best for gaming accessories, laptops, monitors, bundles during the festival window.
- GameExpo at DWTC (22–24 May 2026): ideal for event bundles, merch, peripherals, and limited-time promos.
- Big malls with electronics anchors: you’ll see festival-led “gaming week” promos pop up.
GameExpo (within DEF) 2026
Dates (May 2026 window)
GameExpo (the public-facing highlight inside Dubai Esports & Games Festival) runs from 22 May to 24 May 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Duration
3 days — a tight, high-traffic weekend-style window where most “limited-time” promotions are designed to move fast.
Typical discount range
GameExpo discounts are mostly event-led and product-led, not a citywide clearance like Dubai Shopping Festival. In practice, you’ll usually see:
- Tickets: frequent early-bird / limited-time ticket discounts (often positioned as a % off standard pricing).
- Gaming accessories & merch: commonly 10%–40% on selected items (headsets, keyboards/mice, controllers, collectibles), depending on the retailer/exhibitor.
- Games / digital add-ons: often 20%–70% on selected titles or bundles (especially if platforms run event-weekend promos).
- Big-ticket hardware (consoles/laptops): usually smaller price cuts, but better bundle value (freebies, add-ons, gift cards, subscriptions) rather than huge markdowns.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though the event is physical, the shopping behavior is very “compare-first” — people check pricing online, then buy at the venue or via retailer apps. Expect offers across:
- Gaming: consoles, controllers, headsets, keyboards/mice, gaming chairs/desks
- Tech & electronics: laptops, monitors, TVs, audio, accessories
- VR/immersive gadgets: demos + device promos
- Collectibles & pop-culture merch: figurines, apparel, limited drops
- Family entertainment add-ons: bundled activities and event-linked packages (varies by organiser/partners)
Best places to shop
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) – GameExpo floor: best for limited bundles, merch, and event-only deals.
- Retailer apps/websites during DEF week: best for comparing prices fast on gaming laptops, monitors, consoles, and accessories.
- Electronics-heavy malls (same weekend): good if you want to try gear in-store after checking online.
Eid in Dubai – Eid Al Adha Retail Season (2026)
Dates (May 2026 window)
The Eid in Dubai (Eid Al Adha) retail season is scheduled for 22 May to 31 May 2026. Eid Al Adha itself is moon-sighting dependent, but this window is when the city’s major Eid offer campaigns and Eid sale pricing typically peak—especially in the final few days before the holidays.
Duration
10 days of rolling promotions, with the strongest markdowns usually landing in the last 3–5 days (when gifting and last-minute shopping spikes).
Typical discount range
Eid deals in Dubai are usually a mix of straight discounts + bundles (so the “real value” is often in add-ons):
- Fashion, footwear, accessories: ~20%–70% (often “extra % off” on already reduced items)
- Electronics & appliances: ~10%–60% (bundles, bank offers, cashback, freebies are common)
- Beauty & fragrance gift sets: ~15%–50% (value packs and limited sets show up a lot)
- Home & kitchen: ~15%–50% (tableware, small appliances, décor)
- Gold/jewellery: discounts vary, but you’ll often see value-add offers (making charges offers, gifts, vouchers) more than heavy price cuts
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though malls go big during Eid, the deal-hunting behavior is increasingly online-first—people compare quickly, then buy online or visit malls for final picks. Most common categories:
- Occasion wear + family fashion (Eid outfits, shoes, handbags)
- Gifting (fragrance, watches, jewellery, gift bundles)
- Electronics (phones, laptops, TVs, kitchen appliances)
- Home & hosting (dining sets, décor, small appliances)
- Beauty & grooming (gift sets, skincare bundles, personal care)
Best places to shop
- Dubai Mall + Mall of the Emirates: best for Eid outfits + gifting + fragrance in one trip.
- City Centre malls (Mirdif/Deira): strong for family shopping + multi-brand offers.
- Online marketplaces + brand apps: fastest for electronics bundles and last-minute price drops.
3-Day Super Sale (Citywide) – Edition 1 (2026)
Dates (2026 window)
For 2026, Edition 1 of the 3-Day Super Sale is confirmed as part of Dubai’s retail calendar, but the exact dates are announced closer to the event. In recent years, the first edition has typically landed around late May / early June, often lining up near the Eid sale period—so it’s one of the most watched “sale in Dubai” weekends of the year.
Duration
3 days (a short, high-urgency window where brands push their sharpest markdowns and “weekend-only” offers).
Typical discount range
This event is known for citywide markdowns that can reach up to 90% on selected items, with realistic shopper expectations usually looking like:
- Fashion & footwear: ~30%–80% (highest depth tends to be clearance and end-of-season lines)
- Beauty & fragrance: ~20%–60% (often bundles/value sets rather than single-item cuts)
- Electronics & appliances: ~10%–50% (plus bundle value—freebies, bank offers, cashback)
- Home & lifestyle: ~20%–70% (furniture/homeware can get aggressive on selected pieces)
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though it’s citywide (malls + standalone stores), shoppers usually discover the best deals online first—then decide whether to buy online or visit stores. Commonly discounted categories include:
- Fashion, footwear, accessories
- Electronics, mobiles, laptops, TVs, appliances
- Beauty, grooming, fragrances
- Home, furniture, décor, kitchen essentials
- Kidswear & family shopping essentials
Best places to shop
- Big malls (Dubai Mall, MOE, City Centres): best for quick brand-to-brand comparison in 3 days.
- Outlet shopping (Dubai Outlet Mall): best for clearance-on-clearance in fashion.
- Brand websites/apps: best for flash codes and “today-only” drops.
Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2026
Dates (July–August 2026 window)
Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) runs from 3 July to 30 August 2026. It’s the UAE’s flagship summer sale season—long enough that offers come in phases, and the final weeks usually feel like a citywide clearance push.
Duration
59 days of rotating promotions, family activations, raffles, and back-to-school pricing waves.
Typical discount range
DSS is known for “big headline” discounts, but the real pattern looks like this:
- Fashion, footwear, accessories: ~25%–75% (and higher on end-of-season clearance)
- Kidswear + back-to-school: ~20%–60% (often bundle/value packs)
- Electronics (laptops/tablets/TVs): ~10%–40% (best value usually comes via bundles, cashback, or add-ons)
- Beauty & fragrance: ~15%–50% (gift sets and multipacks are common)
- Home & small appliances: ~15%–60% (strongest on selected lines and weekend drops)
You’ll also see “final sale” moments promoted as up to 90% on selected items, typically limited sizes/SKUs.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though DSS is very mall-visible, most shoppers discover the best offers online first (apps, brand sites, marketplace listings), then decide where to buy. The strongest categories are:
- Fashion + footwear (summer clearance)
- Family shopping + kidswear (DSS is built for this)
- Back to school (laptops, tablets, stationery, shoes, uniforms where applicable)
- Electronics & accessories (especially mid-range deals + bundles)
- Beauty, grooming, fragrance (sets and value packs)
- Home & living (décor refresh, small appliances, bedding)
- Staycations & experiences (often promoted alongside retail offers)
Best places to shop
- Mall of the Emirates: strong for fashion, kids, and summer clearance.
- City Centre malls: great for everyday shopping + kidswear + back-to-school mix.
- Online first: best for tracking weekend drops and final-sale markdowns.
Back to School (within Dubai Summer Surprises) 2026
Dates (Aug 2026 window)
Back-to-School deals sit inside Dubai Summer Surprises (3 July–30 August 2026) and typically peak in August. For 2026, DSS is confirmed, but the exact Back-to-School sub-dates are usually announced closer to August. Based on how DSS is structured in recent years, Back-to-School most often runs in the final 2–3 weeks of DSS (mid-to-late August), when families move from browsing to buying.
Duration
Usually 2–3 weeks within DSS (with the last 7–10 days often being the most aggressive for bundles and “limited-time” drops).
Typical discount range
Back-to-School promotions are more “value + bundles” than pure clearance:
- Laptops / tablets: ~10%–35% (best value often via bundles: bag, mouse, warranty, software, cashback)
- Printers + accessories: ~15%–40% (bundle pricing is common)
- Kidswear, shoes, uniforms (where applicable): ~20%–60% (multi-buy offers are typical)
- Backpacks, stationery, lunchboxes: ~15%–50% (buy-more-save-more)
- Mobile + accessories: ~10%–30% (often with add-ons rather than huge cuts)
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even if you shop in malls, the deal discovery is mostly online-first (apps, brand sites, marketplaces), then people buy online or go in-store to finalize. Core categories:
- Tech for students: laptops, tablets, headphones, printers, calculators
- School essentials: backpacks, stationery, lunch gear, water bottles
- Kids’ clothing & shoes: everyday basics + school-appropriate footwear
- Bedroom/study setup: desks, chairs, lamps, organizers (select retailers)
Best places to shop
- City Centre Mirdif: good for school shopping across kidswear, shoes, and essentials.
- Electronics retailers online/in-mall: best for laptop/tablet bundles.
- Hypermarkets: best for stationery, lunch gear, and basics.
3-Day Super Sale – Edition 2 (Citywide) 2026
Dates (late-year 2026 window)
Edition 2 of the Dubai Super Sale is the late-year comeback of the citywide 3-day event. For 2026, it’s expected to fall in November, but the exact dates are typically confirmed closer to the event. If it lines up with major public-holiday shopping momentum (like end-November/early-December retail rush), it may also come with extended hours or extra weekend energy.
Duration
3 days (short, high-urgency). This is the kind of weekend people mean when they search “sale in Dubai today” because offers rotate quickly and don’t usually roll over.
Typical discount range
This event is famous for deep, headline-grabbing markdowns on selected items, with a realistic spread like:
- Fashion & footwear: ~30%–80% (clearance can go higher on limited sizes)
- Beauty & fragrance: ~20%–60% (often stronger through bundles/value sets)
- Home & lifestyle: ~20%–70% (selected lines get aggressive, especially near season change)
- Electronics & appliances: ~10%–50% (best value often comes via bundles, cashback, bank deals, or freebies)
You’ll sometimes see promotions marketed as “up to 90%” — usually on selected SKUs, end-of-line items, or limited stock.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though it’s citywide, the deal discovery tends to be online-first (apps, brand sites, marketplaces), then shoppers choose online checkout or in-store pickup. Common categories include:
- Fashion, footwear, accessories
- Electronics, mobiles, laptops, TVs, appliances
- Beauty, grooming, fragrances
- Home, décor, furniture, kitchen essentials
- Kidswear & family essentials
Best places to shop
- Online marketplaces + electronics retailers: best for price wars on tech.
- Big malls: best for fashion/beauty deals + easy exchanges.
- Outlet malls: best for end-of-season fashion markdowns.
Dubai Home Festival (DHF) 2026
Dates (Oct–Nov 2026 window)
Dubai Home Festival runs from 16 October to 1 November 2026. It’s the city’s biggest home-focused shopping season—ideal if you’re planning a move, upgrading furniture, or timing a major home purchase for the best value.
Duration
17 days of rotating promotions, brand drops, and weekend-heavy deal waves.
Typical discount range
Expect up to 75% off on selected home items across participating retailers, with the best-value moments usually happening on weekends and “final days” pushes. Alongside straight discounts, many brands also lean into bundle pricing (for example: sofa + rug combos, bedroom sets, kitchen appliance bundles) to make the overall deal feel bigger than a single markdown.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Although it’s highly visible in malls, DHF is very online-first in how people find deals (retailer apps/sites, price comparisons, then store visits for confirmation). Common discounted categories include:
- Furniture: sofas, beds, dining sets, wardrobes, mattresses
- Home décor: rugs, curtains, cushions, wall art, mirrors
- Lighting: floor lamps, ceiling lights, smart lighting
- Kitchen & dining: cookware, tableware, small appliances
- Large appliances: refrigerators, washing machines, ovens (often bundle-led)
- Electronics for the home: TVs, soundbars, smart home add-ons
- Storage & organization: shelves, cabinets, home office basics
Best places to shop
- Home mega-stores + furniture showrooms: best for sofas, beds, dining sets, big-ticket buys.
- Appliance retailers online: best for bundle deals and cashback offers.
- Malls with many home brands: easiest way to compare multiple stores in one visit.
Dubai Fitness Challenge Promotions (DFC) 2026
Dates (Oct–Nov 2026 window)
Dubai Fitness Challenge (Dubai 30×30) runs from 31 October to 29 November 2026. It’s primarily a citywide wellness initiative, but many brands line up fitness-themed offers during the same window.
Duration
30 days of campaigns and partner-led promotions that usually roll out in weekly waves (launch week, mid-challenge pushes, and a strong final-week finish).
Typical discount range
DFC doesn’t publish one official discount rate because promotions come from participating retailers and partners. What’s consistently authentic to say is:
- Deals are typically moderate, product-led markdowns plus bundle/value add-ons (free accessories, “buy more save more”, membership perks, cashback).
- The biggest “savings” often comes from bundles (shoe + apparel sets, home-gym starter kits) or partner perks, not extreme clearance-style pricing.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even when people buy in-store, deal discovery is usually online-first (brand apps, retailer sites, partner pages). Common categories include:
- Activewear & sports shoes (running, training, athleisure)
- Fitness equipment (yoga/HIIT gear, weights, small home-gym items)
- Wearables & fitness tech (trackers, smartwatches, headphones)
- Recovery & wellness gear (massage tools, braces/supports, hydration)
- Healthy lifestyle bundles (gym packages, studio offers, wellness services where included)
Best places to shop
- Sports retailers in malls: best for shoes + activewear try-ons and quick comparisons.
- Brand apps/websites: best for bundle offers (shoes + apparel + accessories).
- Fitness equipment stores: best for home-gym starter kits.
Festival of Lights (Diwali Retail Promotions) 2026
Dates (Nov 2026 window)
Dubai’s Festival of Lights (Diwali) retail season runs from 2 November to 12 November 2026. It’s a focused, gifting-led shopping window where brands roll out festive offers across malls and online platforms.
Duration
11 days, usually with the strongest promotions landing around the main celebration days and the following weekend.
Typical discount range
There’s no single official discount rate for Diwali promotions because offers are retailer-led. What’s authentically consistent is the deal style and where the bigger savings show up:
- Jewellery: often promoted through making-charge reductions, exchange bonuses, gifts with purchase (like gold coins), and selected-piece markdowns—in some cases retailers have advertised up to ~70% off on specific diamond/pearl collections (selection-based, not storewide).
- Fashion & accessories: typically seasonal markdowns + festive bundles (the exact % varies brand to brand).
- Beauty & fragrance: commonly gift sets, value packs, and bundle pricing rather than one big flat discount.
- Electronics: usually bundle value (accessories/warranty/cashback) more than extreme price cuts.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even when people buy in malls, discovery is very online-first (brand apps, retailer sites, marketplaces), then they shortlist and purchase. Common discounted categories include:
- Gold & jewellery (gifting-led offers)
- Festive fashion + accessories (occasionwear, handbags, footwear)
- Beauty & fragrance (gift sets, multipacks)
- Home décor & festive hosting (lights, décor, tableware)
- Selected electronics (giftable gadgets and bundles)
Best places to shop
- Jewellery stores in major malls: best for gifting-led offers.
- Beauty & fragrance retailers: best for gift sets and value packs.
- Festive fashion stores + ethnic wear hubs: best for occasion outfits and accessories.
White Friday / Yellow Friday (Retailer-Led) 2026
Dates (late-Nov 2026 window)
White Friday and Yellow Friday are retailer-led (not one single official festival), so dates vary by platform. In the UAE, they typically land in late November, often built around the Black Friday weekend and extending into a multi-day sale window. In 2026, you should treat it as a late-November event rather than one fixed day.
Duration
Usually 3–10 days, depending on the retailer. Many platforms run it as a week-long (or longer) mega sale, with “early access” days and a final 48-hour push.
Typical discount range
This is one of the strongest periods for broad retail discounts, but the depth depends heavily on category:
- Electronics & appliances: ~10%–50% (best value often through bundles, cashback, trade-ins, free accessories)
- Fashion & footwear: ~20%–70% (clearance lines can go higher)
- Beauty & fragrance: ~15%–60% (gift sets + multipacks do especially well)
- Home & kitchen: ~15%–60% (small appliances and homeware can get aggressive)
- Groceries / pantry staples (where included): typically lighter discounts, but strong bundle/value deals
You’ll also see marketing headlines like “up to 80–90%,” which are usually selected items or limited stock.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
This season is extremely online-first—even shoppers who buy in-store usually compare prices online first. The most common categories include:
- Electronics: phones, laptops, tablets, TVs, audio
- Appliances: kitchen + home appliances
- Fashion: clothing, shoes, accessories
- Beauty & personal care: skincare, fragrance, grooming kits
- Home & living: décor, bedding, storage, small furniture
- Everyday essentials: supermarket categories on platforms that include them
Best places to shop
- Noon + Amazon: best for electronics, appliances, and fast deal drops.
- Electronics retailers’ websites: best for bundles (TVs, laptops, phones).
- Malls: best for fashion/beauty deals if you want in-store try-ons and easy returns.
Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day Promotions) 2026
Dates (late Nov–early Dec 2026 window)
Eid Al Etihad retail promotions run from 30 November to 3 December 2026. This sits right at the start of the year-end shopping rush, so many brands time their campaigns to ride the long-weekend momentum.
Duration
4 days of concentrated, holiday-led offers and mall activations.
Typical discount range
There isn’t one official discount rate for Eid Al Etihad because promotions are retailer-led. What’s reliable to expect is:
- Short, high-urgency markdown windows (often “weekend-only” style)
- Bundle/value offers (gift sets, multi-buy, add-ons)
- In some years, Dubai has paired the National Day period with a citywide super sale concept where retailers advertise very deep “up to” discounts on selected items — but the exact depth varies each year and by store.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Deal discovery tends to be online-first (apps, websites, marketplaces), then shoppers either buy online or head to malls for final picks. Most common categories promoted during Eid Al Etihad include:
- Fashion & footwear (family shopping + last-minute outfits)
- Beauty & fragrance (gift packs and festive bundles)
- Homeware & lifestyle (seasonal refresh + hosting items)
- Electronics & gadgets (bundle-led offers, accessories, add-ons)
This overlap is why it often feels like an early year end sale Dubai moment for many shoppers.
Best places to shop
- Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- City Centre malls
- Online marketplaces
GITEX Global 2026
Dates (Dec 2026 window)
GITEX Global 2026 runs from 7–11 December 2026. The structure is typically: 7 Dec (Summit day) followed by the main expo days 8–11 Dec.
Duration
5 days.
Typical discount range
GITEX Global is not a retail “sale” event in the way Dubai Shopping Festival or a mall promotion is. Any “discounts” you’ll see are usually event-access or business-offer based, not storewide markdowns. The most authentic expectations are:
- Ticket / pass pricing: early-bird or limited-time promo pricing (percentage varies by release and is not fixed year to year)
- Exhibitor offers: deal-making incentives on B2B products/services (e.g., waived setup fees, bundled onboarding, extended trials), which are not standardized and often negotiated
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
This is a tech and business event, so the “offers” that matter are typically discovered online-first (registration pages, exhibitor landing pages, partner announcements). Categories commonly represented:
- AI, cloud, data infrastructure
- Cybersecurity
- Enterprise software & SaaS
- Telecom, networking, hardware solutions
- Digital health, fintech, smart city / gov tech
- Startups and innovation showcases
Best places to shop
- Dubai World Trade Centre
- Tech vendors’ official websites
- Electronics retailers running parallel promotions
12-Hour Mega Sale (Dubai) — 2026
Dates (2026 window)
As of now, the 2026 edition’s official announcement (date + participating malls/brands list) hasn’t been published publicly. What is consistent from how Dubai runs this event is that the 12-Hour Mega Sale is typically tied to DSF’s opening weekend energy and has repeatedly been scheduled on 26 December (Boxing Day timing).
Duration
12 hours (commonly promoted as 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM when it runs).
Typical discount range
This is one of the most aggressive flash-sale formats Dubai does:
- Usually marketed as up to 90% off on selected items/brands.
- Realistically, the mix tends to be 25%–90%, depending on category, stock, and whether it’s clearance or a limited-time promo.
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Even though the sale is “in-the-moment,” discovery is still online-first (people shortlist offers before going in):
- Fashion & footwear (often the biggest volume of deals)
- Kidswear & family shopping
- Home & lifestyle (homeware, décor, selected furniture lines)
- Beauty & fragrance (gift sets/value packs)
- Electronics & gadgets (usually selected deals + limited quantities)
Best places to shop
- Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- Participating malls across Dubai
End-of-Year & New Year Sales (UAE) 2026
Dates (Dec 2026 → early Jan 2027 window)
These sales are retailer-led, so there isn’t one official nationwide date. In Dubai/UAE, “End-of-Year” promotions typically build from mid-December, peak in the last 10–12 days of December, and roll into New Year week (often through the first week of January). Many brands also align this period with DSF timing, which is why it feels like one long savings season.
Duration
Usually 2–3 weeks overall, with the most aggressive markdowns concentrated in late December and a final push during the New Year weekend.
Typical discount range
Because it’s not a single festival, discount depth varies by brand—but the patterns are consistent:
- Fashion & footwear: ~20%–70% (clearance lines can go higher)
- Beauty & fragrance: ~15%–50% (gift sets/value packs are common)
- Electronics & gadgets: ~10%–40% (best value often through bundles, cashback, freebies)
- Home & lifestyle: ~15%–60% (especially on selected homeware and seasonal lines)
- Grocery / everyday essentials: usually lighter markdowns, but strong bundle/value deals
Categories covered (broad, online-first)
Deal discovery is very online-first (apps, brand sites, marketplaces), then shoppers either check out online or visit malls for fit/quality. Most common categories:
- Partywear, shoes, accessories
- Gifting (fragrance, beauty sets, watches, jewellery offers)
- Electronics (phones, laptops, TVs, audio)
- Home & hosting (tableware, décor, small appliances)
- Kidswear & family shopping
Best places to shop
- Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- Dubai Outlet Mall
- Noon
- Amazon.ae
FAQs
1) WHAT IS DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL DATE 2026?
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) crosses over the year, so the 2026 portion is the final stretch in early January. If you’re planning around the biggest sale in Dubai, track DSF dates first because it sets the tone for the year’s best Dubai shopping offers.
2) What’s the difference between Dubai Shopping Festival vs Dubai Summer Surprises?
DSF is the winter headline event (broad, citywide, high-energy), while DSS is the long summer sale season with phased offers and big “final sale” drops. If you want variety, DSF wins; if you want time to plan and compare, DSS is easier for steady shopping discounts in Dubai.
3) When do the deepest “Dubai Super Sale / 3-Day Super Sale” discounts usually happen?
The Dubai Super Sale is short and aggressive—think 3 days of fast-moving deals, often with “selected items” going very deep. If you’re searching dubai sale today, these 3-day windows are the ones that feel most urgent and worth acting on quickly.
4) Is White Friday / Yellow Friday better than DSF for electronics?
Often yes—especially for big-ticket tech. During White Friday / Yellow Friday, retailers compete hard online, so it’s easier to compare prices and catch bundles (devices + freebies/cashback). If your goal is black friday shopping deals on phones, laptops or TVs, this period is usually the strongest.
5) What’s the best way to shop smart so you don’t miss Dubai mall offers or online deals?
Use a simple routine: shortlist what you want, watch your target month in the calendar, then compare Dubai mall offers vs online pricing before you buy. For fashion and try-ons, malls work best; for electronics and fast deal checks, online is usually the quickest path to the best deals in Dubai.
At Last
Planning ahead is the smartest way to win every sale in Dubai without overspending. With major events like Dubai Shopping Festival, summer sale campaigns, Eid sale promotions, and Black Friday shopping deals happening across the year, timing truly matters. Use this month-wise calendar to track Dubai shopping offers, compare Dubai mall discounts, and shop when prices are at their best. When you align your purchases with the right event, finding the best deals in Dubai becomes much easier.
