Christmas in Dubai: a guide

Dubai dazzles at any time of year, but the man-made metropolis glitters all the brighter at Christmas.

From winter wonderlands in the desert and tree lighting extravaganzas to festive feasts and the iconic New Year fireworks, Christmas in Dubai is just as gloriously over-the-top as you’d expect.

Whether you’re looking for a white Christmas that swaps snow for sugar-soft sand, a glamorous indoor ski experience or first-class Christmas menus from some of the finest restaurants in the world, a Christmas holiday in Dubai is one for the bucket list.

Dubai in December

Those looking to get their festive kicks on the beach should make a beeline for Dubai in December.

Sunny skies with cool breezes mean you can top up your vitamin D by the shore, while the water’s still warm enough for a dip in the ocean. You’ll find plenty of activities and entertainment across the city throughout the month, many with a festive theme – think Michelin-starred Christmas brunches or meeting a LEGO Santa.

Do they celebrate Christmas in Dubai?

While Islam is the official religion, Dubai has such a large and thriving expat community that Christmas celebrations are widespread and spectacular. Christmas isn’t a public holiday here, which means almost everything is open on Christmas Day in Dubai.

From restaurants to shopping malls, not only is it business as usual – most places get wildly into the festive spirit. Shops and eateries are decked out in twinkling lights and traditional red, green and gold decorations and you’ll even find Santa and his elves making the rounds at the Christmas markets.

Dubai Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets in Dubai are like nothing you’ve ever seen. Dotted throughout the city from early December, they rival some of Europe’s most popular. Here’s our pick of the Christmas markets in Dubai to visit:

Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market

Everything is bigger and brighter in Dubai, including the Christmas markets. The Jumeirah tops the list as the most opulent of them all, centred around a lavish 36-foot Christmas tree strewn with fairy lights and festive decorations.

Pick up one-of-a-kind gifts from stalls selling homemade crafts, artisanal goods and eclectic treasures or take the kids on an unforgettable train ride to the “real” North Pole to meet Santa and tell him what’s on their Christmas wish list.

The Winter District at Dubai Media Amphitheatre

This is one of the newest kids on the block when it comes to Dubai Christmas markets, and one of the city’s most eye-poppingly extravagant – think dazzling festive lights, a gigantic Christmas tree and a glittering ice rink, all overlooked by a giant inflatable snowman. You’ll also find plenty of festive treats to tuck into, from hot chocolate to oven-fresh pizza.

Winter Fest at Expo City

If you’re travelling with the kids, this is the place to bring them. They’ll love decorating their own gingerbread houses and taking a ride on the Santa-themed zipline before kicking back with a lively musical performance. Winter Fest promises 50 days of festivities from UAE National Day right through to New Year.

Dubai Christmas Food

A foodie paradise year-round, Dubai pulls out all the stops when it comes to Christmas. From Michelin-starred chefs serving seasonal tasting menus to street food vendors offering festive treats, it’s worth spending Christmas in Dubai for the food alone. We’ve gathered some top picks not to be missed:

For your Christmas Day meal: Ossiano

Dubai is known for its out-there dining experiences and a meal at Ossiano in Atlantis The Palm tops the list – only in Dubai would you expect to spot stingrays and sharks gliding past your table as you dine. The Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant is serving a festive feast on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, featuring cured duck croustille with green apple jelly, lobster velouté with artichoke, and guinea fowl with cep jus and sunchoke tatin.

For a festive party: Caña by Tamoka

Let your hair down in style with a festive knees-up at Caña by Tamoka, a vibrant beachfront venue on JBR. Expect handcrafted cocktails, a lively party atmosphere with DJs and percussionists and captivating views of the glittering night sky over Ain Dubai. Book for New Year’s Eve and enjoy front-row seats to the record- breaking fireworks show at midnight – one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring displays, earning itself a place in the Guinness World Records Book.

For seasonal snacking on the go: Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace

The enchanting Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace is a magical urban oasis festooned with twinkling lights, Christmas trees and seasonal decorations, open from the first of November. The food stalls are the main event here – bring out your inner child at Rollercoaster Ice-Cream UAE, pick up some local delicacies at Shawarma Vibes or try a taste of Hawaii at Aloha Dubai.

Where to spend Christmas in Dubai: Best places to stay

Dubai is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, with eye-catching architecture and hospitality so good you’ll never want to leave. Here are some of our favourite spots to book for the festive season:

Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa

Swaying palms overlook a scene of tranquil beauty at Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. Take in the dazzling Arabian Gulf as you dine on the private beach beneath the stars or enjoy a sumptuous set menu at the Porterhouse Bar and Grill on Christmas Eve – five fantastic courses with live music.

JA Palm Tree Court

All-inclusive, all-suites and all set within a beachfront paradise, a stay at JA Palm Tree Court promises superb views and lies just metres from a championship nine-hole golf course. Surrounded by tropical vegetation and mere steps from the Arabian Gulf, you’ll find 16 on-site restaurants serving everything from poolside snacks to gourmet feasts.

Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Book a stay at the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina to score some serious brownie points with the kids. The hotel is centred around a giant aquapark with splash pads, slides and a wave pool – guaranteed to tire out even the most active tots and teens. While they’re taken care of you can sunbathe on the beach, take in the panoramic views or do some thrill-seeking of your own with a variety of watersports.

Five of the best Christmas activities in Dubai

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do in Dubai in December. Here are some of our top picks for Christmas activities in Dubai:

Raffles Tree Lighting Ceremony

The tree lighting ceremony at Raffles is as celebrated as the hotel’s first-class food and service. Expect complimentary mulled grape drinks, festive treats and maybe even a visit from Saint Nick himself.

Ski Dubai

An indoor winter wonderland year-round, Ski Dubai in the Mall of Emirates is a whole day out in itself. Take your pick from winter sports including skiing, snowboarding and ziplining, and don’t miss the chance to meet the Ski Dubai snow penguins – a colony of over 40 Gentoo and Emperor penguins living in a custom-built home.

Take a boat ride with Santa

Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market is home to one of the best Santa experiences in the city. Take the kids to meet Father Christmas on a festive boat ride accompanied by carols and overlooked by a giant Christmas tree.

Be dazzled by La Perle de Dragone

Dubai’s most famous and popular live show, La Perle de Dragone, is a must-see. This spectacular living installation is a true fairytale come to life – dreamlike, poetic and surreal – with performances from 65 artists in a 1,300-seat water theatre.

The weather: Can you sunbathe in Dubai in December?

In Dubai at Christmas, the weather ranges from lows of 17ºC to highs of 26ºC, making December one of the best times to visit Dubai. You can sunbathe in Dubai in December, although you may find the evenings a little chillier, so pack a light jacket.

Is Dubai busy during Christmas?

December is one of the busiest months for tourism in Dubai, with thousands drawn to the winning combination of great weather, festive décor and seasonal delights. However, while the most popular hotspots might feel a little crowded, you shouldn’t find it too difficult to get around.

Are things open on Christmas Day in Dubai?

Yes, almost everything in Dubai is open on Christmas Day, including hotels, bars, restaurants and shops. This includes churches too, so you can attend a Christmas service.

This feature was created on 28th November 2024. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print.