{"id":66754,"date":"2026-01-06T06:12:42","date_gmt":"2026-01-06T06:12:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/?p=66754"},"modified":"2026-01-06T06:12:42","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T06:12:42","slug":"e-motb-returns-for-season-13-unveiling-a-bold-future-forward-vision-as-dubais-premier-open-air-retail-and-entertainment-experience","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/2026\/01\/06\/e-motb-returns-for-season-13-unveiling-a-bold-future-forward-vision-as-dubais-premier-open-air-retail-and-entertainment-experience\/","title":{"rendered":"e& MOTB Returns for Season 13: Unveiling a Bold, Future-Forward Vision as Dubai\u2019s Premier Open-Air Retail and Entertainment Experience"},"content":{"rendered":"

e& MOTB Returns for Season 13: Unveiling a Bold, Future-Forward Vision as Dubai\u2019s Premier Open-Air Retail and Entertainment Experience<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\nDubai, UAE \u2014 19 December 2025<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 As a cornerstone of the 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), e& MOTB (Market Outside The Box), the region\u2019s leading open-air retail and lifestyle event, returns from 1 January to 11 January 2026 at the iconic Dubai Design District (d3) Waterfront. Now in its 13th edition, e& MOTB unveils its most ambitious transformation yet, introducing a redesigned layout, immersive futuristic activations, expanded retail and F&B offerings, and a dynamic entertainment programme for all ages.<\/h3>\n

\nWith free entry, extended operating hours, and a curated selection of more than 95 retail and F&B brands, e& MOTB continues to champion homegrown talent while delivering world-class experiences that celebrate innovation, creativity, and Dubai\u2019s vibrant winter culture.<\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\nOver 90 F&B and Retail Brands: Championing Homegrown Talent<\/strong>
\ne& MOTB continues its legacy of spotlighting Dubai\u2019s thriving SME landscape alongside international newcomers, offering a diverse mix of fashion, beauty, wellness, lifestyle, collectibles, and street-food concepts.<\/h3>\n

\nHighlights include:<\/strong>
\nF&B<\/strong>: The Yard, Slice 45, Oma Bakery, RHRN, Bond Matcha, Eat BTWN, TRD Tacos, Wok The Wok, Mihbash, Dizi Caf\u00e9, Bar Baar, Noodle Box, Amoodi\u2019s Creamery, Misto Caf\u00e9, Roll\u2019d, Little Pinch, The Cut by Maitha and more.<\/h3>\n

\nRetail<\/strong>: Terribly Real, Sugar Lab, Hype Selection, Cre8, Oud Cady, Kool Kaos, Ashri Skin, By Farida & Co, Office Thirteen, Shabab Edition, Tuffy Cosmetics, Ryoko, Unshown DXB, Palmeira, Komusta, Jonquille, Naksha, Not Friends, Gateway Collection, Swirly Wirly, Lamita Jewels, Elise Wear, Razfa, Sxill Lab, SNGLZ, Ego Sustainable, Ryoko and others.<\/h3>\n

\nMore than 85% of MOTB vendors this year are SMEs under five years old, reaffirming the platform as one of the UAE\u2019s most influential creative incubators. Of this, nearly 50% of this year\u2019s brands are homegrown, reaffirming MOTB\u2019s role as a platform for emerging UAE talent.<\/h3>\n

\nDynamic Entertainment: DJs, Live Musicians, and Dance Battles<\/strong>
\nThe 2026 entertainment programme delivers a vibrant array of performances, spanning acclaimed DJs, talented live bands, energetic dance troupes, and engaging community showcases.<\/h3>\n

\nHeadline Concerts: As part of this year\u2019s line-up, e& MOTB will host two major free-to-attend headline concerts. On 2 January 2026, Belgian-Moroccan superstar DYSTINCT takes over the main stage with his global Afrobeats and R&B sound. On 10 January 2026, Turkish rap sensation Lvbel C5 headlines with his chart-topping, youth-driven performance style \u2014 two standout nights that reinforce e& MOTB as DSF\u2019s home of cutting-edge live entertainment.<\/h3>\n
    \n
  • <\/li>\n
  • \n

    Entertainment includes:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n

    DJs: Jevanni Letford, DJ Hanna, DJ RiQQ<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n

    Live Musicians: Marvin Lee, Maria Flamek, Dan Moores, Tydee, Charlie Ryan, Ada, Zain Malik, Chasing Embers, Sonix Band, Back to Back, Saving Sara<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n

    Stage Performances: Urban Pirouette, Dance of the Future, Boombox Beats, Urban Battle, The Metallic Era, Nextwave Dancers<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n

    Community Partners: Melodica, B Club Artist Showcase, DCT Youth Program, Afrofit fitness classes<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n

    Dance Battle Stage: A two-weekend competition featuring auditions, semi-finals, and finals, expertly curated by Hiphop Cardio.<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    \nThe Glow Bloc: Premium Brands and Elevated Experiences<\/strong>
    \nReturning for its second successful year, The Glow Bloc serves as MOTB\u2019s premium zone for established regional and international brands. Designed in contrasting orange hues, this exclusive space hosts immersive installations, glow-up activations, and bespoke beauty experiences.<\/h3>\n
      \n
    • <\/li>\n
    • \n

      Confirmed brands include:<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n

      Kayali \u2013 fragrance layering bar<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n

      MAC \u2013 backstage beauty studio<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n

      NARS \u2013 editorial artistry arena<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n

      Dyson \u2013 futuristic styling lab<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n
    • <\/li>\n
    • \n

      Complementing this premium retail offer, F&B experiences include \u2019t Pareltje (European gourmet fries), Caviar Kaspia and Nama Yoso by Chef Reif Othman.<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Immersive Hero Activations: Journey into the Future<\/strong>
      \ne& MOTB invites visitors on captivating journeys through innovative, interactive experiences:
      \nJourney to 2126 (Sponsored by Nescaf\u00e9): A multi-room immersive attraction transports guests through the Dubai of the future, featuring:
      \nAn Infinity Feed mirror room
      \nAn interactive doodle room
      \nAn upside-down train cabin photo moment
      \nA futuristic sampling lounge This 10\u201315 minute walkthrough stands as one of the key highlights of the 2026 edition.<\/h3>\n

      \nEmarat Station \u2013 \u201c100 Years Forward\u201d: A futuristic reimagining of a petrol station, complete with a 360\u00b0 video booth, a gamified loyalty activation, and stylised fuel-dispenser installations.
      \nNew for 2026, a live beauty masterclass led by renowned makeup artist Ghaliah Al-Nassar offers visitors backstage-style tutorials and content-friendly glam moments.
      \nWorkshops & Glitter Zone: Visitors can create personalised pieces at 11 hands-on workshops;
      \nSlime Workshop
      \nRings & Things
      \nTote Bag Customisation
      \nPhone Case Customisation
      \nDenim Patch Jackets
      \nEmbroidery
      \nClay Jewellery Trays
      \nLip Gloss Making<\/h3>\n

      \nA New Design Era: Midnight Obsidian Theme<\/strong>
      \nSeason 13 debuts the Midnight Obsidian theme \u2013 a sleek, monochromatic aesthetic that seamlessly blends futuristic soundscapes, cutting-edge digital artistry, and architectural evolution. The event transitions effortlessly from daytime vibrancy to an after-dark, obsidian-toned atmosphere, symbolising Dubai\u2019s continuous rise as a global hub for creativity, design, and youth culture.<\/h3>\n

      \nA Reimagined Festival Site with Major Upgrades<\/strong>
      \nThis year, e& MOTB debuts a refreshed festival layout designed to make the experience smoother, more social, and more visually striking than ever.<\/h3>\n

      \nFlowing V-Shaped Layout: A new open, V-shaped design makes it easier to explore the different zones, discover new brands, and enjoy seamless movement across the festival.
      \nNew Elevated Terraces: Two beautiful terraces now overlook the entire site \u2014 perfect for taking a break, enjoying the sunset, or capturing panoramic photos
      \nDestination Double-Deckers: Two standout two-storey activations bring an elevated experience to the heart of MOTB, including Odela & Co.\u2019s beauty hub and AW Rostamani\u2019s lifestyle showcase.<\/h3>\n

      Futuristic Festival Entrance: Guests arrive through a dramatic new tunnel-style entrance \u2014 an insta-ready moment that sets the tone for the festival\u2019s futuristic Midnight Obsidian theme.
      \nUpgraded Retail Touchpoints: Across the festival, refreshed photo spots, shaded seating corners, and upgraded try-on areas enhance comfort and create more moments worth capturing.<\/h3>\n

      \nSeason 13 welcomes its most diverse sponsorship line-up to date, including: e& (Title Sponsor), Emarat, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Mai Dubai, AW Rostamani and Nescaf\u00e9. These valued brands are seamlessly integrated through immersive zones, sampling experiences, product showcases, and premium viewing decks.<\/h3>\n

      \nLocated at the d3 Waterfront Slab, e& MOTB offers:
      \nFree entry for all visitors
      \nOperating hours:
      \nMonday\u2013Thursday: 4 PM \u2013 10 PM
      \nFriday: 4 PM \u2013 12 AM
      \nSaturday\u2013Sunday: 12 PM \u2013 12 AM<\/h3>\n

      \nA Flagship DSF Experience<\/strong>
      \ne& MOTB continues to be a defining highlight of DSF, bringing together culture, commerce, entertainment, and community in an open-air environment that powerfully showcases Dubai\u2019s creative economy. With new architectural features, engaging activations, and a potent blend of SMEs and global brands, Season 13 delivers an elevated experience from day to night, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
      \nFor more information about Dubai Shopping Festival please visit mydsf.ae or follow @dubaifestivals on social media<\/h3>\n

      <\/h3>\n
        \n
      • \n

        Ends \u2013<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        DSF Strategic Partners<\/strong>
        \nDSF 2025-2026 is supported by Key Sponsor Commercial Bank of Dubai, and Strategic Partners, including: Al-Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall and Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Souq Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nad Al Sheba Mall, Palm Jumeirah Mall, and The Outlet Village), Emirates airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), talabat plus more to be revealed<\/h3>\n

        \nAbout Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)<\/strong><\/span>
        \nThe Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) returns for its 31st edition from 5 December 2025, to 11 January 2026, transforming the city into a spectacular winter wonderland for 38 days of unparalleled shopping, entertainment, gastronomy, and culture. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), DSF continues its legacy as a landmark event that reflects Dubai\u2019s vision as a leading global destination, offering new experiences, record-breaking shows, and unforgettable prizes for residents and visitors alike.<\/h3>\n

        \nAbout Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment<\/strong><\/span>
        \nDubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai\u2019s retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events.<\/h3>\n

        \nFor further information, please contact:
        \nDubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
        \nmediarelations@dubaidet.ae
        \n[+971] 600 55 5559<\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

        e& MOTB Returns for Season 13: Unveiling a Bold, Future-Forward Vision as Dubai\u2019s Premier Open-Air Retail and Entertainment Experience Dubai, UAE \u2014 19 December 2025\u00a0\u2013 As a cornerstone of the 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), e& MOTB (Market Outside The Box), the region\u2019s leading open-air retail and lifestyle event, returns from 1 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":66758,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[2],"tags":[29],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66754"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=66754"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66754\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":66759,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66754\/revisions\/66759"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/66758"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=66754"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=66754"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hashtagdubai.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=66754"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}