Dubai Shopping Festival, the annual shopping extravaganza that attracts millions from across the globe has kicked off, as the UAE attempts to boost its indifferent retail sector.

In its inaugural year, DSF attracted 1.6 million visitors in 1996 who spent about Rs 139 billion dirhams in 43 days. The year 2009 saw visitor numbers touching 3.35 million who spent approximately Rs 633 billion. The month-long festival, which is awaited by bargain hunters both in and outside the UAE, is expected to boost an otherwise indifferent retail industry over the last few months.

Shops try to outdo each other over discounts while malls have erected facades for this 15th edition of the festival. Hundreds gathered to watch a dazzling fireworks display on Al Seef Street to herald the beginning of the festival.