DSS is here and Dubai families are ready to have some fun

After a bleak past couple of months across Dubi and the rest of the world due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) festival has injected much-needed joy and celebrations into the hearts of Dubai residents.
The annual family festival returned for its 23rd edition on Thursday and shoppers, predominantly families and kids, were seen at hotspots across Dubai taking advantage of the fun and safe events and mind-boggling promotions.
The DSS kicked off two days after the emirate welcomed holidaymakers from around the world. Moreover, strict safety measures have been put in place across the city as part of continuous efforts to fight Covid-19.
From fireworks and mega raffle draws to pop-up shops and yoga sessions at the viewing deck of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) handpicked a host of exciting events for its DSS line-up this year.
The fun started as soon as the malls opened their doors to guests on Thursday, with a 12-hour sale running from 10am until 10pm at Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) malls across Dubai. Visitors scooped up savings of 25 per cent to 90 per cent on a wide range of products, and those who spent Dh300 entered the 12-Hour Share Millionaire raffle with a grand lucky draw for 1 million Share Points.
Evening at Dubai Downtown witnessed families and children enjoying the fireworks and Dubai Fountain with the Burj Khaifa all lit up in the background to welcome residents and visitors back to the festival time.
Residents were excited at the DSS opening ceremony, with many who said they are very happy to see Dubai light up in colours again.
Ishtiaq Salafi said: "Nice to hear good news after a long time. I love you, Dubai."
Vishal Chaurasia said: "Thank you, Government of the UAE, leadership of Dubai for giving us back these days. It is something amazing to look forward to as the DSS has been something my entire family celebrated every year."
"Each year, Dubai Summer Surprises wows shoppers with its exciting and eclectic selection of deals, raffles, promotions, events and experiences. DSS has always had a special place in the hearts of Dubai residents and visitors and has established itself as one of the most eagerly awaited events on Dubai's calendar," said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of the DFRE.

The events to look for:

1) Do yoga at Burj Khalifa's At The Top

Ideal for fitness fans with a head for heights, Yoga At The Top invites guests to enjoy a unique workout at the Burj Khalifa's viewing deck. Taking place three times a week during the DSS, up to 24 yoga enthusiasts can soak up the early morning views with classes taking place from 7am.

2) Book an entire movie theatre for your friends and family

VOX Cinemas at the Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira and City Centre Mirdif will welcome film fans to book their own movie theatre for a 'Friends and Family-only' showing of the latest blockbusters. The private cinema screening offer is available throughout DSS. Each auditorium sits up to 10 guests, with standard experiences costing Dh450 per person, or Dh800 for Gold.

3) Don't miss the fireworks

The Pointe, the outdoor dining and shopping destination on the Palm Jumeirah, will play host to three nights of incredible fireworks and delicious deals at some of its most popular restaurants. Skies will be illuminated each night at 8.30pm from July 16-18, while residents and visitors can enjoy food discounts from July 12 to July 18.

4) Shop for a cause: Support the fight against Covid-19

Shoppers can support the UAE's war on Covid-19 this DSS with the Shop and Save Lives at Mercato Mall promotion. Between July 9 and July 29, Dh1 from every Dh100 spent in the mall will be donated to the UAE Homeland of Humanity campaign to combat the virus.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Dubai

Dhanusha Gokulan

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com