Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa provided a spectacular backdrop to a magnificent show marking the opening of the 16th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival. The ceremony was attended by His Highness Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and His Excellency Sami Al Qamzi, Director General of Department of Economic Development, in addition to Laila Suhail, CEO of Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE), Ibrahim Saleh, Festivals Coordinator General and Deputy CEO of DEPE, and other senior officials.

A colorful show featuring choreographed dance sequences, acrobatics and performances on the surface of the water formed the highlight of the ceremony that used a giant DSF shopping bag structure as the background for the event.

Water and light played a key role in adding beauty and style to the event as the water fountain came alive with lively music melodies at the event which also saw a spectacular fire work display that lit the Burj Khalifa sky and stretched to cover the entire city as four separate locations in Shindadgha area, Outlet Mall, Global Village and Creek Park started a simultaneous fire work display that was enjoyed by thousands.

The show was divided into 4 acts symbolizing the festive and vibrant atmosphere of DSF and of Dubai itself and the event's unique water screen projection displayed images of the past and new Dubai in a back drop of light that matched the music beat and the rhythm of performers.

The event was enhanced by jet skis, water screen projections, traditional Ayala dancers, and a cultural parade featuring dancers from across the world to reflect the DSF tagline, ‘One World, One Family, One Festival'.

Hours before the start of the official ceremony at 8pm, thousands gathered at Dubai Creek Park, the site of the public opening of the festival. Dance troupes and performances kept the atmosphere alive and ensured a strong public attendance as the park buzzed with a host of activities, ranging from music to dance acts, as well as jugglers, musicians and clowns. Games for children and adults were made available giving families and children plenty to enjoy as the event stretched until 12 midnight.

The highlight at Dubai Creek Park was a spectacular 20-minute fireworks display with thousands lining up the length of the creek.

The coming month will see events across Dubai in addition to shopping promotions and the opportunity to win prizes worth millions of dirhams.