Christmas in Dubai is a truly remarkable and unconventional festive experience. While Dubai’s primary culture is predominantly Muslim, it has embraced the spirit of Christmas, thanks to its diverse and international community. The city comes alive with Christmas events, enchanting markets, and festive decorations adorning its renowned landmarks.
In December, Dubai’s mild and pleasant climate makes it the perfect winter getaway destination. The city magically transforms into a Christmas wonderland immediately following the UAE’s National Day on December 2nd, with colorful lights, events, and activities taking over the streets.
If you’re seeking a departure from traditional winter celebrations, Dubai offers an extraordinary alternative. This futuristic desert city invites you to embark on a unique holiday adventure filled with thrilling activities. From high-speed boat rides to desert safaris, camel excursions to dolphin encounters, there’s something to captivate every traveler’s heart.
While Dubai’s Christmas celebrations may not be as visually prominent as it is in many global cities around the world, the festive spirit is unmissable. The UAE offers an unforgettable end-of-year experience under the winter sun, with an abundance of places to visit, things to do, and a lively atmosphere for you and your loved ones to enjoy!
Winter Garden
From November to March, Habtoor Palace Dubai transforms into the Winter Garden, a magical open-air space filled with festive charm. This winter wonderland features lush gardens adorned with sparkling lights and decorations, creating a captivating atmosphere for families.
It’s a popular spot to celebrate Christmas in Dubai, with a grand and majestic Christmas tree surrounded by a variety of food stalls offering over 50 culinary option, from traditional hot chocolate to gourmet snacks. Visitors can also enjoy Santa Claus visits, Christmas tree lighting, and musical performances. The Winter Garden also offers an array of engaging activities and a pet-friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect place to capture unforgettable moments.
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
Dubai’s popular Christmas market returns for 16 days in mid-December, featuring traditional treats, live music, and a grand Christmas tree. The Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market, set behind the Burj Al-Arab, offers an enchanting experience with family-friendly activities like a North Pole Train, a towering Christmas tree, and a Venetian carousel. Don’t forget the Abra boat ride with Santa Claus through beautifully lit waterways. It’s a festive celebration not to be missed.
Christmas at Ski Dubai
Christmas at Ski Dubai is a unique and magical experience that brings the festive spirit right to the heart of the Dubai desert. Located in the Mall of the Emirates, this indoor ski facility transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The main attraction is Santa’s Grotto, where you can meet Santa Claus, take memorable photos, and receive a special gift whereas Mrs. Claus will add some warmth with engaging stories.
You can also enjoy Christmas treats like gingerbread penguins, mince pies, and peppermint hot chocolate. The snow park offers thrilling adventures, with skiing, snowboarding, and toboggan runs for all ages. Expert instructors are available to assist beginners, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
Bluewaters Island
Annually, Bluewaters Island, located close to Dubai Marina, undergoes a vibrant Christmas makeover. Imagine wandering through an enchanting village adorned with sparkling snow, twinkling lights, and colorful ornaments. Reindeer sculptures watch over you as you step into a world of wonder and surprises. You can meet Santa, share words of joy, and capture a magical photograph as a cherished memory. Enjoy a Christmas band, dancers, and a captivating drone show in the night sky. Action and adventure abound with an ice rink, snowball challenges, and the Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel offering spectacular views. Don’t forget to visit Madame Tussauds wax museum for celebrity selfies.
Expo Winter City
The futuristic Expo 2020 pavilions have transformed into Expo City, becoming a delightful family destination for Christmas in Dubai. The Winter City event at Expo City, spanning from mid-November to mid-January, offers 50 days of festive celebrations.
The event features a 52-foot-tall Christmas tree and a White Christmas theme, creating a mesmerizing winter wonderland within the iconic Wasl Dome. Visitors can enjoy thrilling zip-lining, climbing walls, and fun slides. Mrs. Claus entertains the kids, while “Carols by Candlelight” fills the air with classic Christmas songs. Gingerbread decorating and baking workshops add a creative touch to the festivities. The toy factory offers personalized teddy bears, and Santa’s Grotto lets children write letters to Santa, building excitement for Christmas day.
Dubai Shopping Festival
From early December to late January, Dubai hosts the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), a global shopping extravaganza established in 1996. This seven-week festival offers outstanding shopping deals in major malls and historic markets like the Dubai Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Beyond shopping, DSF features daily entertainment, art exhibitions, and street events, including culinary experiences, fashion shows, international artist performances, and spectacular fireworks displays in the night sky. It’s a must-visit festival for shoppers and entertainment enthusiasts.
Queen Elizabeth 2
Dubai’s QE2 cruise liner hosts a special floating Christmas market as part of its winter wonderland celebration. This market offers handmade arts, crafts, Christmas gifts, live cooking stations, and live music. The QE2, known for its history and charm, has transformed into a floating hotel, becoming a unique venue for Christmas celebrations. You can enjoy festive dinners and shop for unique gifts at the onboard Christmas market. The highlight is the sumptuous Christmas Dinner, expertly prepared by the ship’s renowned chefs.
Global Village
Dubai’s Global Village is a popular Christmas destination. From October 18, 2023, to April 28, 2024, Global Village offers a unique fusion of entertainment, shopping, diverse cuisines, and cultural attractions across its 27 pavilions, which represent various world regions. It’s a cultural journey that allows visitors to immerse themselves in different traditions, local delicacies, and captivating performances.
The extensive marketplace features thousands of shops, showcasing a wide array of products, from spices of India to matryoshka dolls from Russia, African wood carvings, European fashion, authentic Persian carpets, and premium sidr honey from Yemen. During the Christmas season, the park transforms into a festive wonderland, featuring a grand Christmas tree and delightful attractions, including the world’s smallest Santa Claus in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Christmas Events and shows to enjoy:
For a guaranteed spot, it’s a good idea to book your seat without any delay.
Magic Phil’s Cirque du Silly
Date: December 9 and 10, 2023 | Theatre by QE2
Magic Phil, a beloved entertainer for kids, is set to perform at the Theatre by QE2. This family-friendly show features festive elements to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. The performances are scheduled in the morning, including a matinee show, making it convenient for young ones to enjoy without staying up too late and potentially catching a glimpse of Santa delivering gifts.
Peter Pan
Date: December 15 and 26, 2023 | Theatre by QE2
Embark on a journey to Neverland with Peter Pan, Captain Hook, Wendy, and The Lost Boys as they grace the stage at the Theatre by QE2. This timeless tale of eternal youth will come to life twice daily from December 15 to December 26. The show lasts for two hours with a brief 15-minute break in between. Don’t miss this classic adventure!
Dear Santa live
Date: December 8 and 9, 2023 | Zabeel Theatre
Celebrate the holiday season with a special show, Rod Campbell’s “Dear Santa,” featuring a lively cast of performers. This 40-minute production is perfect for young children and includes sing-along songs and opportunities for the audience to join in the fun. It’s a festive and interactive experience designed to delight the little ones.
The Nutcracker
Date: December 15 to 17, 2023 | Dubai Opera
Dubai is set to host an enchanting performance of “The Nutcracker” presented by the Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of Astana from Kazakhstan. This magical show takes the audience into a child’s fantastical realm, where the story unfolds on Christmas Eve beneath a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
Slava’s SnowShow
Date: December 8 to 10, 2023 | Dubai Opera
“Slava’s SnowShow,” a timeless winter performance that has graced stages worldwide since 1993, offers a delightful multisensory theatrical journey. Featuring clowns, snow effects, and engagement with the audience, it’s a delightful family-friendly show, making it a perfect choice for the holiday season.
Beauty and the Beast
Date: December 14 and 26, 2023 | Fairmont – The Palm
The Dubai Panto group is returning with “Beauty and the Beast” this year. You can catch this pantomime at Fairmont The Palm’s ballroom from December 14 to December 26. It’s a delightful holiday production you won’t want to miss.
In this cosmopolitan city, boasting one of the most diverse expatriate communities in the Middle East, Dubai’s Christmas festivities truly cater to everyone’s taste. Whether it’s indulging in a Christmas shopping extravaganza or enjoying the enchanting Christmas-themed performances, Dubai ensures that the holiday season is a time of joy, unity, and celebration for all.
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