DUBAI, Jan 4: Since December 15 of the previous year, Dubai has been illuminated by vibrant and lively fireworks, casting enchanting displays that are set to dazzle until January 14. These mesmerizing pyrotechnics are part of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), unfolding over a month during the 'fireworks nights' at four distinct locations. Following exhibitions at Dubai Festival City, Hatta, and Al Seef, the captivating spectacle will then shift to Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR, from January 5 to 14.

Whether tourists or residents, people pause in awe, gazing at the night sky transformed into a vivid, fiery panorama. However, have you ever wondered about the efforts behind orchestrating this stunning nightly showcase?

Al Zarooni Group, the presenter of these shows, reveals that approximately 1.2 tonnes of fireworks contribute to the month-long displays. The primary fireworks used are aerial shells, which burst in the sky, creating breathtaking spherical effects.

Nisreen Boustani, PR and Corporate Communication Manager for Mercato and Town Centre Jumeirah (both under the Al Zarooni Group), shared insights into the variety of fireworks materials employed. These include Roman candles, single shot candles, mines, comets, box sets candles, and combinations, designed mainly for lower height effects.

The displays are carefully curated to match the themes of the venues. For instance, Al Seef, with its traditional and historical significance, demands colors and effects that complement its distinct architecture.

Behind the scenes, nine highly skilled technicians, licensed by the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), collaborate to present the shows. Working in three teams, they utilize sophisticated software to design and program each show, tailoring them to the specific needs of individual locations while prioritizing safety and security measures.

These technicians are involved in all shows to ensure flawless execution and strict adherence to safety protocols. The fireworks materials are stored in Dubai Police-controlled storages and are transported to each destination a day before the scheduled show.

Shipping Fireworks to Dubai Primarily sourced from China, known as the "birthplace of fireworks," the materials make their way to Dubai via containers transported by sea. Boustani emphasized the intricate process of importing fireworks containers, citing the challenges posed by the product's nature and the stringent safety and security requirements. Typically, it takes a minimum of three months from placing an order to the arrival of the fireworks in Dubai.

The groundwork for hosting the show commences three to four months before the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). This involves extensive coordination among teams, venues, and relevant authorities. Additionally, preparations encompass the allocation of materials, equipment, staff, and vehicles to be utilized throughout the season. Permits and approvals from all relevant authorities are secured two weeks prior to the shows. The setup of equipment and layouts is finalized three to four days before each show.