In summer, luxury and hospitality are multiplied as Dubai hosts lively festivals, a varied cultural scene, and great shopping. This change is possible because of the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) festival, which is now a common event on the city’s annual schedule. Operating from June 27 to August 31, 2025, DSS 2025 guarantees you 66 days of the most amazing discounts, exciting family events, and thrilling prizes.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about DSS. Want information on deals, raffles, fun events, and great food? This blog is one for you.
What is Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS)
Dubai Summer Surprises is an annual festival organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). DSS started to promote tourism and retail in the summer, but over time, it expanded into a full event that offers sales, events, and activities for everyone. Both locals and visitors can enjoy big discounts and cultural events because of DSS.
Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 will take place between June 27 and August 31. That’s two solid months of sales, performances, delicious dishes, and cultural activities.
DSS 2025 Dates
Key Highlights of Dubai Summer Surprises 2025
Unbeatable Shopping Deals
If you like to spend time shopping, there’s never been a better deal. You have a chance to get 50% off fashion, electronics, home goods and more at DSS 2025. Over 500 brands and 4,000 outlets are signed up for Asia Mobility Day, including:
- Mall of the Emirates
- City Centre Deira
- Dubai Mall
- Ibn Battuta Mall
- Dubai Festival City Mall
12-Hour Flash Sales
The sale will be active for 12 hours on the opening Saturday of DSS. Every day between 10 AM and 10 PM, you’ll find special, limited offers that you won’t see any other day.
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Exciting Raffles and Prizes
Daily Raffles
You don’t just shop—you win. One of the main attractions at DSS is its expansive daily raffles. There is a chance you could bring home:
- Luxury cars
- Cash prizes
- Gold bars
- Shopping vouchers
Instant Prizes
Frequently, mall activations are a pleasant surprise. So, while shopping, you might be selected for a quick-win prize! What a coincidence that we were.
Family-Friendly Entertainment
Modesh World
Modesh World which is a big indoor play area at Dubai World Trade Centre, will be loved by your kids. I noticed that he is full of:
- Interactive games
- Live shows
- Workshops
- Edutainment zones
Live Concerts and Performances
Live shows and concerts are available on your TV screen.
- Coca-Cola Arena
- Dubai Opera
- Mall of the Emirates
Movie Magic
Dubai’s cinemas offer special promotions for DSS.
- Buy-one-get-one tickets
- Discounted snack combos
- Premieres with meet-and-greet opportunities
It’s a great place to hide from the summer heat.
Culinary Delights
Summer Restaurant Week
During this period, from August 23 to September 1, treat yourself to fancy dining and pay less for it. Participating venues are:
- Pierchic
- Zuma
- Carine
- COYA Dubai
Sizzling Summer Eats
Summer dishes and combo meals are being offered at more than 100 restaurants from July 15 to August 15. It offers you an opportunity to sample Dubai’s rich range of foods on a budget.
Cultural and Adventure Experiences
Deep Dive Dubai
With DSS, you have the perfect reason to try Deep Dive Dubai and enjoy snorkeling, free-diving or scuba diving, regardless of your experience.
HeliDubai Tours
Look down on Dubai’s skyline from the air. Booking with a DSS package gives you more than 20% off HeliDubai tours so you can visit:
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- The World Islands
Desert Adventures
Don’t miss out on:
- Camel rides
- Desert safaris
- Star-gazing nights
- Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve tours
How You Can Participate and Win
Taking part in DSS is simpler than it looks. All you have to do is be smart about your shopping and stay informed. You should know these few things to increase your chances of winning:
Step-by-Step Participation Guide
Step 1: Shop at Participating Stores
Anytime you shop in a DSS retailer, ask about getting a raffle coupon.
Step 2: Get Your Raffle Coupon
Every AED 200-300 you pay gets you one chance to win. Pick up your coupons before you pay for your shopping.
Step 3: Register Your Entry
Different retailers set their own guidelines for buying, so most likely, you will have to:
- Scan a QR code
- Use a mobile app
- Submit details online or via SMS
Step 4: Wait for the Draw
Keep your eyes on:
- Dubai Summer Surprises’ official website
- Instagram and Facebook pages
- Local news outlets
Best Places to Enjoy DSS in 2025
The Dubai Mall
The world’s largest mall becomes even more vibrant during DSS, with exclusive collections, fashion shows, children’s activities, and unmissable sales.
Mall of the Emirates
With luxurious stores and Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates gives shoppers exciting indoor activities, brand offers, and unique vouchers.
Centre Malls
At Deira, Mirdif, and Me’aisem, DSS events include everything from puppet shows to science workshops geared toward young children.
Ibn Battuta Mall
During Dubai Summer Surprises, the mall stages many performances, tells engaging tales, and shows off the traditional way of life in the country through special zones.
FAQs
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Final Thoughts
Dubai Summer Surprises offers more than just sales—it brings together culture, family-friendly activities, and creativity across the city. Thanks to DSS, whether you spend your day scoring discounts, watching exciting acts, or spending time with your family, you won’t have a typical summer.
Get prepared, pack your things, and make sure you don’t miss Dubai Summer Surprises 2025, because it will be the standout event of the year.
