Here's a guide to some of the best free experiences to enjoy during DSS 2026:

Modesh World

Date: Until 23 August, daily from 12 PM to 10 PM

Location: Sheikh Saeed Halls 1-3, Dubai World Trade Centre

Price: Free entry

One of the region's largest indoor family entertainment destinations returns for its 27th edition with free entry for all. Families can enjoy more than 25 live shows every week, interactive workshops, daily appearances by Modesh and Dana, and dedicated free entertainment zones throughout the venue. This year's highlights include the first-ever collaboration between Modesh, Dana and Baby Shark, which brought exclusive live shows and Meet & Greet to Modesh World from 18 to 30 July. 

With more than 130 rides, games and attractions available through the Tap Card system, Modesh World offers a full day of family fun under one roof.

DSS Performing Arts Fest

Date: Until 16 August

Location: Dubai Festival City Mall, Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Deira

Price: Free

New for DSS 2026, the first-ever DSS Performing Arts Fest transforms three malls into entertainment destinations across three weekends. Visitors can enjoy full-scale parades, dance performances, acrobatic displays and aerial acts running throughout the day, with each mall hosting its own programme of shows and experiences.

Dubai Mallathon

Date: Until 15 September, daily from 6 AM to 10 AM

Location: Dubai Festival City Mall

Price: Free

Start your morning with an indoor walk or run as Dubai Festival City Mall transforms into an air-conditioned fitness track throughout the summer. Open to all fitness levels, Dubai Mallathon encourages visitors to stay active while avoiding the summer heat. Participants can also track their progress through the BLUE App for the chance to win weekly rewards, with a special Mallathon Race Day taking place on 22 August.

DSS Entertainment

Date: Every weekend until 30 August, from 4 PM to 10 PM

Location: The Outlet Village, Ibn Battuta Mall, City Centre Mirdif, Nad Al Sheba and Palm Jumeirah Mall.

Price: Free

Malls across Dubai come alive every weekend with free entertainment as part of DSS Performing Arts. Visitors can enjoy everything from themed flash mobs and fashion catwalks to live musicians and dance performances, with each location offering something different throughout the summer.

New Balance x Common Grounds Summer Series

Date: 28 August

Location: Dubai Hills Mall

Price: Free

As part of the Dubai Mallathon programme, the New Balance x Common Grounds Summer Series brings runners together for a morning of fitness and community. Participants meet at the New Balance store before taking on the indoor Mallathon route, followed by a complimentary recovery breakfast at Common Grounds for the first 100 participants. The specially curated menu includes high-protein dishes, fresh juices and complimentary electrolytes, making it the perfect way to refuel after the run.