Dubai has been aglow with vibrant and captivating fireworks as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), captivating audiences since December 15 and continuing until January 14. The dazzling displays, held at various locations, involve meticulous planning, skilled technicians, and approximately 1.2 tonnes of fireworks provided by the Al Zarooni Group. Let’s take a peek behind the scenes to understand what goes into creating this visual spectacle.
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1. Quantity of Fireworks:
- Amount Used: Around 1.2 tonnes of fireworks are utilized for the month-long displays.
- Main Type: Aerial shells are the primary fireworks used, producing breathtaking spherical effects.
2. Types of Fireworks:
- Varieties: Besides aerial shells, other types include Roman candles, single-shot candles, mines, comets, box sets candles, and combinations for diverse visual effects.

3. Themes and Venues:
- Venue-Based Themes: Each display is designed with themes that complement the specific venues. For instance, more traditional colors and effects are employed for locations like Al Seef, known for its rich history and traditional architecture.
4. Technical Expertise:
- Skilled Technicians: Nine highly-skilled technicians licensed by the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) manage the operations. They form three teams that collaborate throughout the season.
- Software Utilization: Sophisticated state-of-the-art software is employed for designing and programming the shows, ensuring alignment with safety and security protocols.

5. Safety Measures:
- Storage and Transportation: Fireworks materials are stored in Dubai Police-controlled storages and transported to the destination a day before the show.
- Origin of Materials: Fireworks mainly come from China and are shipped via containers through sea routes.
6. Ordering and Preparation:
- Ordering Process: The process of bringing in fireworks containers is complex, involving at least three months from placing an order to reaching Dubai.
- Preparation Timeline: The preparation for hosting the DSF fireworks begins three to four months before the festival. Coordination, allocation of materials, equipment setup, and layouts are completed in the pre-event phase.

7. Technological Sophistication:
- Material Arrival: The materials reach Dubai through containers from China, leveraging technology and stringent safety measures.
- Order Lead Time: Given the nature of fireworks, obtaining permits, approvals, and transporting materials takes significant lead time.
8. Team Coordination:
- Preparatory Steps: Preparations include coordination within teams, venues, and relevant authorities, with permits and approvals obtained two weeks before the shows.
- Equipment Setup: Equipment setup and layouts are completed three to four days before each show.

The DSF fireworks, a harmonious blend of artistry and technology, offer a dazzling celebration of lights, colors, and creativity, captivating audiences and contributing to the festive ambiance of Dubai during this annual shopping extravaganza.