500 Drones In the heart of Dubai’s Bluewaters Island, a purpose-built platform gears up for the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) Drones Show. Exclusive access granted, witness the meticulous process behind the 46-night spectacle, even on a windy day.
500 Drones, 16 Crew Members
A dedicated team of 16 works tirelessly alongside 500 drones, preparing for two daily shows at 7 pm and 10 pm. The challenge? Transforming blinking lights into an intricate narrative using advanced 3D animation tools.
The Captivating Journey Begins: 500 Drones
As the countdown ensues, drones defy the winds, taking their positions above Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR. The story unfolds, captivating the audience in front of Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel.
Tourist’s Day and Futuristic Metaverse
Kaltham Alshamsi, Executive of Events Planning at DFRE, unveils the show’s thematic exploration. The first show mirrors a tourist’s day, exploring iconic sites, while the second thrusts spectators into a futuristic metaverse, envisioning Dubai in 2040.
The Spectacle’s Heartbeat
For the Khaleej Times team, the highlight is the drones’ graceful return to the landing platform. Crew members meticulously examine and ensure the health of each drone, reflecting the dedication behind the spectacle.
From Tent to Sky: The Daily Routine
Launched in 2020, the show is now in its third annual edition, with the drones stored in a tent acting as an “airport and hangar.” The daily routine involves meticulous battery checks and preset formations, showcasing the disciplined routine before and after each show.
The Show’s Architects
Behind the scenes, a multidisciplinary team collaborates to build the show. UK-based Sky Magic provides drones and animations, On the Sly Audio Production produces the music, and DXB Live oversees the show’s execution.
Weathering Challenges
Weather conditions, particularly high-speed winds and rain, impact the drone shows. The decision to proceed or cancel is based on real-time weather monitoring, emphasizing the dedication to delivering a seamless show.
Beyond January 29
While the current season concludes on January 29, the planning for the next edition begins immediately after. Alshamsi emphasizes the meticulous planning and thoughtful consideration required to bring the best experience to visitors and residents.
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