Christmas in Dubai 2024: 21+ Ideas What To Do

White snowflakes, frost on the cheeks, green Christmas trees, and sleighs drawn by deer are not what come to mind when we think of Christmas in Dubai.

However, this unique city can provide unconventional holiday pleasure, with shopping festivals, cozy lighting, skating rinks, food trucks serving delectable Christmas delicacies like Stollen and Gingerbread cookies, fake snow in the city center, and an outdoor movie theater playing new and classic New Year’s films and cartoons. We’ve focused on the newest venues and activities for December 2024 and January 2025 in our guide to winter fun in warm Dubai.

Christmas in Dubai 2024 Specials

Winter District

 

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A huge Christmas tree and a variety of festive themes will be on display at Winter District, all set against the striking background of the Museum of the Future.

What bright-light and leisurely walk fans can expect at the spot:

• Shopping: here you will find new handmade decorations for the Christmas tree, mistletoes as the decorations for the front door, bright tinsels, scented candles, red stockings, gift wrapping, or gift boxes already prepared for every taste. Local clothing and jewelry stores will present new collections and bring an Arabian touch to the winter wonderland.
• Snow Activities: Saddle up for some seasonal fun and go sledding, skating on the ice, or competing with others in the snow fight zone!
• F&B Treats: The food kiosks will serve hot beverages, and hearty dishes of International cuisine (shawarma, crispy fried potatoes with sauces, sandwiches, and kebabs, will be on the menu as per photos from the district’s social media accounts), as well as classic Christmas desserts and even ice cream and fruit pops.
• Kids’ Zone: Instagram assures you that the kid will be entertained. Apart from strolling and admiring the lights and decorations, the child can participate in master classes focused on appliqué, make natural materials crafts for the New Year, and decorate a wooden lamp in the form of a snowy house.
• Santa’s Grotto: Encourage your kid to think miracles happen! In the heart of the winter district, the genuine Santa Claus will be waiting in his modest hideout, ready and willing to serve as a free model for your pictures!

The holiday festivities will feature a photo booth designed to resemble a charming ski resort, live music performances, interactive nativity plays, a gaming zone, a delectable chocolate bar, a whimsical carousel, and an exciting shooting gallery offering the chance to win a delightful toy.

• Dates: 14 December 2024 – 22 December 2024
• Timings: 12:00 PM-12:00 AM
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: from AED 25 (book your tickets here)
• Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre

Winter City (Expo City)

A spectacular Christmas tree at Al Wasl House, Santa’s Grotto, and a dedicated mailbox for letters to Santa are among the well-known attractions that you may still enjoy this year.

You can also bring your furry canine friend to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus’s house.

Exciting new features are various themed photo zones, including a chance to snap a picture with the gingerbread man. The Mobility District will also introduce European Christmas-themed markets, a climbing wall, ziplines with an ice theme, and interactive activities where you can sing festive songs like “Jingle Bells” to celebrate the holiday spirit.

• Dates: 6 December 2024 – 31 December 2024
• Timings: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: Free for kids under 5 years old, AED 40/ adult , and AED 80/adult from 20-24 December (book your tickets here)
• Location: Expo City – Al Wasl Avenue – Dubai

Winter Garden At Habtoor Palace Dubai

 

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Winter Garden offers a delightful pet-friendly market area with various entertainment options. The Christmas festivities kick off on December 1st, with a photo booth session available for 16 AED at the Casa Pons kiosk. Adults can also indulge in a unique experience by creating their fragrance with Lablicious. For the little ones, there are kid-friendly activities, including play areas with drawing and coloring zones, inflatable pools and slides, and trampolines.

Visitors can also explore a diverse range of culinary delights from numerous kiosks, such as Lastpoint Café, Gourmet Turkish Ice Cream, Hangry Joe’s offering hot chicken and wings, authentic Italian cuisine at Locanda Da Vinci, sweet corn treats from Magic Corn, and delicious burgers from Flat Burger, among others.

Live entertainment will be featured throughout the festive season, with daily pop song performances from November 1st to December 31st, national day celebrations on December 2nd, and a lineup of Christmas hits and festive songs from December 3rd to December 31st. The entertainment continues into the new year, with jazz and pop performances from January 1st to January 31st, 2025.

• Dates: 1 November 2024 – 31 January 2025
• Timings: 4:00 PM-12:00 AM (Weekdays), 4:00 PM-1:00 AM (Weekends)
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: 25 AED (fully redeemable on F&B)
• Location: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai

Winterland at Oli Oli Museum

Oli Oli, a renowned children’s play museum in Dubai, is currently hosting a captivating temporary exhibition called “Winterland.”

This impressive exhibition features the UAE’s largest miniature winter village, complete with over 700 intricately crafted pieces, including landmarks, joyful citizens, and the Winterland Express. Visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of Winterland, enjoy winter activities and explore the charming miniature village.

The exhibition is open during regular museum hours, allowing guests to experience the magic of Winterland as part of their visit to OliOli.  Additionally, guests can enjoy a unique opportunity to engage with this delightful seasonal display during their visit to the museum.

• Dates:will be announced later
• Timings:  Monday-Thursday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Friday&Sunday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price:  AED 149 for 1 Child + 1 Adult (Standard Plus Ticket)
• Location: 62 4 A St – Al Quoz – Al Quoz 1 – Dubai

Festive Season at Global Village

Global Village magically transforms into a wintry wonderland with a beautiful Christmas tree and captivating activities as the holiday season draws near. The tiniest Santa Claus from Ripley’s Believe It Or Not is among the highlights. In addition, the park will still have 27 pavilions that represent different parts of the world, giving guests the chance to learn about and experience a variety of Christmas customs from around the world. Notably, Tuesdays are reserved just for women and families, guaranteeing a unique experience for them.

• Dates: approx. 11 December 2024- 4 January 2025
• Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4:00 PM-12:00 AM, Thursday to Saturday 4:00 PM-1:00 AM
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: from 22.5 AED (book your tickets here)
• Location: 38C5+F57 – Dubai

Dubai Miracle Garden

For not snowy, but a vibrant and floral adventure, head over to the Dubai Miracle Garden. This unique outdoor family environment is exclusively open during the autumn-winter season and boasts an impressive display of over 150 million flowers, captivating umbrella passages, and a range of kid-friendly attractions such as the Smurf Village and a serene lake park. During weekends, visitors can enjoy mesmerizing shows featuring Indian dancers, acrobats, neon displays, and drum performances starting from 6:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

The garden also features a variety of shops offering spices, teas, oriental perfumes, sandy souvenirs, Arabic dresses, and traditional costumes, providing a truly immersive experience. When it comes to food and beverages, visitors can indulge in delectable offerings such as shawarmas at Shawarma City, doughnuts starting from 10 AED at Krispy Kreme, and dessert kiosks serving fruit salad for 30 AED, as well as delicious pizzas at Rukun Al Sham.

• Dates: will be announced later
• Timings: Monday to Thursday 9:00 AM-9:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 AM-11:00 PM
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: 95 AED (adults), 80 AED (children 3-12 y.o.), free (children under 3 y.o) (book your tickets here)
• Location: Street 3 – Al Barsha – Al Barsha South – Dubai

Dubai Parks And Resorts

For Christmas 2024, Dubai Parks and Resorts will become a jolly wonderland with a variety of entertaining events and attractions suitable for all ages. With spectacular decorations, holiday-themed entertainment, and special events occurring all year long, visitors can anticipate being completely engrossed in the festive spirit.

A large Christmas tree with shimmering lights and ornaments will be the center of attention for the joyous celebrations in the park. In addition, visitors can anticipate captivating attractions like interactive activities, performances with a festive theme, and exceptional photo ops.

• Dates: will be announced later
• Timings: depends on the park.
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: from 330 AED, free for children under 3 y.o (book your tickets here)
• Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai

Queen Elizabeth 2

Christmas 2024 on the Dubai Queen Elizabeth 2 cruise liner promises to be a memorable and enchanting experience with its festive offers.

Visitors can expect a festive tree lighting ceremony with Santa Claus creating a magical atmosphere for all onboard (50 AED per person) or with an extra buffet dinner (from 195 AED per person). Additionally, the ship will host special performances, live music, and entertainment to spread the holiday cheer.

Guests can indulge in traditional Christmas dining experiences, featuring delectable festive Afternoon Tea on weekends from 3 PM to 6:30 PM (from 175 AED), special holiday treats at Queens Room (from 295 AED per adult and 95 AED per kid 6-11 y.o.) right on the 25^th of December from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM.

• Dates: 6 December 2024 – Tree Lighting Ceremony; 25 December 2024 – Christmas Lunch.
• Timings: 5:30 PM onwards – Tree Lighting Ceremony;
• Entry Fee/Ticket Price: from AED 50  per adult, from AED 30 per child (6-12 y.o.), free (children under 5 y.o.);
• Location: Bur Dubai – Port Rashid – Dubai

Christmas Markets

Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market

Covering an expansive area of 1,750 square meters, the market serves as a vibrant hub for family-friendly activities and a delightful destination for all your Christmas shopping needs.

Kids can enjoy exciting rides on small trains or carousels, participate in engaging master classes to craft their own gingerbread house, and learn about the traditional abra boats, all while wondering if Santa can navigate this unique floating vehicle.

A captivating feature of the market is the towering 10-meter Christmas tree, serving as the focal point for mesmerizing light and music shows. After all the festive fun, visitors can indulge in holiday shopping and savor delicious treats offered at the market.

For those traveling to the market, it’s advisable to pre-book a taxi, as parking availability is limited.

• Dates: 6 December 2024 – 12 January 2025
• Timings: Monday to Thursday 3:00 PM-12:00 AM, Friday to Sunday 12:00 PM-12:00 AM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: Free
• Location: Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre, Madinat Jumeirah – King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St – Dubai

Dubai Festival City Mall

Discover the captivating Christmas markets at Dubai Festival City Mall, brimming with joyous décor and a warm, festive atmosphere. The markets provide a fantastic selection of food and drink establishments, enabling guests to savor both traditional and seasonal fare. In addition, visitors can participate in interesting sports, art, entertainment, and yoga classes taught by professionals, giving them the chance to pick up new abilities.

The opportunity to take priceless pictures with adored characters like Pluma and other whimsical figures dressed charmingly is one of the best parts of the Christmas markets. These photo ops offer a dreamy setting for treasured Christmas memories.

Also, you can enjoy The IMAGINE show, a record-breaking attraction that has earned two Guinness World Records in its first year. It features a unique sensory experience using light, water, and fire. The show timings are as follows: Weekdays (Mon – Thu): 07:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Weekends (Fri – Sun): 07:00 PM to 11:00 PM. And it is free for all the visitors.

• Dates: 13 December 2024 – 5 January 2024
• Timings: Monday to Thursday 5:00 PM-10:00 PM, Friday to Sunday 5:00 PM-12:00 AM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: Free
• Location: Crescent Rd – Dubai Festival City – Dubai

Christmas Brunches and Dinners

Buddha-Bar

Enjoy an exquisite Christmas Day Brunch with an array of delicious Pan-Asian dishes and limitless beverages. Experience the infectious vibe of the brunch while taking in a wide variety of live performances that are sure to make you feel cheerful. Only on Christmas Day from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM at the bar located at Grosvenor House.

At AED 450 per person, the package comes with soft drinks; hops and grapes are included in the AED 550 per individual option. The AED 650 per individual package, which guarantees an incredibly decadent celebration, offers a selection of high-quality drinks for those looking for a premium experience.

Nikki Beach

Enjoy a lavish Christmas Day celebration from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm at Café Nikki, where you may indulge in a delicious feast. Enjoy the textures of classic grilled Atlantic salmon, roasted Norbest turkey breast, and a delectable assortment of housemade bread and sweets, all set against the breathtaking setting of Café Nikki.

Choose from an array of exclusive packages to enhance your festive experience:

• For a premium indulgence, the Christmas buffet brunch priced at AED 850 per person includes Champagne, house spirits, house wines, cocktails, beers, and soft beverages.
• Opt for the Christmas buffet brunch at AED 650 per person, offering house spirits, house wines, cocktails, beers, and soft beverages.
• The Christmas buffet brunch with soft beverages is available at AED 500 per person, providing a delightful non-alcoholic dining experience.
• Children under 12 can join the celebration for AED 250, ensuring a memorable Christmas feast for the whole family.
• Entertainment includes a live duo band, a resident DJ, a special visit from Santa, and post-brunch access to the pool and beach until sunset, ensuring a festive celebration to remember.

Sofitel

Savor the festive season at Sofitel’s Manava and Porterhouse Steaks & Grills, where Christmas brunches come alive with live music and entertainment. Manava goes the extra mile with face painting, balloon shows, magic tricks, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Meanwhile, Porterhouse Steaks & Grills sets the stage for a musical journey through pop hits, offering an exclusive dining experience for adults and teens aged 12 and older.

Come on December 25, 2024, from 1 pm to 4 pm, and choose from a range of exclusive packages to elevate your Christmas celebration:

• Embrace the spirit of the season with the alcohol package priced at 649 AED per adult, ensuring a festive experience filled with merriment.
• Opt for the non-alcohol package at 499 AED per adult, offering a delightful dining experience for those seeking a non-alcoholic celebration.
• Young adults aged 12 to 20 can join the festivities for 249 AED, creating cherished holiday memories with loved ones.
• Children aged 6 to 11 are invited to partake in the Christmas brunch for 149 AED, ensuring a joyful celebration for the whole family.

Crescendo (Anantara)

Experience an unforgettable Christmas Day celebration at Crescendo, where you may lose yourself in a symphony of live music and festive treats. Savor an abundance of delicious food options, accompanied by a selection of fine drinks, including wonderful sparkling treats.

Come celebrate the occasion on December 25, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Select from a variety of special packages to make your holiday experience even more memorable:

• Children aged 6 to 11 are invited to partake in the Christmas celebration for AED 265, ensuring a delightful experience with soft beverages.
• Indulge in the festive ambiance with the package priced at AED 575 per person, offering a delightful dining experience with soft beverages.
• Elevate your experience with the house beverages and Prosecco package priced at AED 785 per person, ensuring a truly indulgent celebration.
• For a premium experience, the package priced at AED 850 per person includes Champagne and a house package, ensuring a truly luxurious celebration.

Experience the magic of Christmas with live music, surprises from Santa, and a feast to remember at Crescendo.

Learn more about the best Christmas Day Brunches, Lunches and Dinners in Dubai.

Winter Activities

Ski Dubai (Winter Wonderland)

 

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Ho-ho-ho, Santa is waiting for you! Until December 25th, join us for a magical encounter with Santa for 160 AED, which includes a printed photo with Santa, a special gift, a comforting cup of hot chocolate, and cozy fleece gloves. Secure your time slot in advance to ensure a memorable meeting with Santa.

For families, the Family Meets Santa package is available for 600 AED, including 4 surprise gifts crafted by Santa’s elves and a cherished printed family photo.

For an extra dose of fun, opt for the Meet Santa & Snow Park package for 325 AED, which includes all the Santa meeting perks plus entry to the Snow Park with 7 thrilling attractions.

A delightful breakfast with Santa awaits you at 8:00 AM for 160 AED. Your Christmas meal comes with a chance to take photos with Santa and a surprise each day from the significant Advent Calendar, making for a happy start to the day.

• Dates: 1 December 2024 – 25 December 2024
• Timings: 9:00 AM-6:00 PM (advance booking required)
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 160 AED
• Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai

Dubai Ice Rink

Imagine a winter wonderland in a hot city! At the Dubai Ice Rink, you can escape the heat and experience the thrill of gliding across the ice. Lace up your skates and get ready to immerse yourself in the joy of figure skating. If you’re new to the sport or looking to improve your skills, consider hiring a seasoned trainer with over 30 years of expertise to guide you through the intricacies of figure skating (instruction starts from AED 190).

• Timings: 10:00 AM-12:00 AM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 110 AED
• Location: Unit GF – 207 – Dubai Mall – Financial Center Rd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai

Christmas Movies

Aura SkyPool Movie In The Sky

Getting into the spirit of Christmas and New Year’s Eve can be achieved by watching the timeless holiday film, Home Alone. This is a special offer that is quite cozy: it’s at a height of 210 meters, with a stunning view of the Arabian Gulf, a large screen, and the chance to refuel with canapés and sparkling wine! Only those who are at least 21 years old may attend the session. Since there are only 50 spots available, be sure to book your spot.

• Dates: 12 December 2024
• Timings: 8:30 PM-11:00 PM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 600 AED
• Location: Aura Skypool, Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Tower – 50th Floor – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai

JBR Winter Nights

Prepare for the return of JBR Winter Nights in 2024, which will turn the waterfront promenade into a lively weekend getaway spot. Accept an enthralling schedule of live acts, outdoor film screenings, kid-friendly activities, and a variety of food and retail options.

Movie Nights	Kids Activities	Roaming Entertainment / Buskers
Fridays and Saturdays (5:00 PM& 7:00 PM)	Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)	Saturdays and Sundays (6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM)

Holiday faves like «Home Alone», «The Polar Express», and «Jingle All the Way» will enchant viewers as the season draws near, bringing a mysterious ambiance to everyone.

• Dates: 18 October 2024 – 31 December 2024
• Timings: 
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: free
• Location: Rimal JBR

Christmas Shopping

Dubai Shopping Festival

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is a spectacular event that provides a wide range of shopping opportunities, entertainment options, and family-friendly events during the winter period. Along with a full schedule of events that includes fashion presentations, live music, and fireworks, visitors will receive exceptional shopping offers and promotions from a variety of brands. The festival also offers gourmet festivals, lottery draws with amazing prize opportunities and cultural activities.

• Dates: 6 December 2024 – 12 January 2025
• Timings: depends on the mall or store
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: free
• Location: 3,500+ shopping venues

Christmas Events

The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera

The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera is a captivating ballet performance presented by the prestigious ballet and orchestra of Astana Opera. This production brings Tchaikovsky’s timeless Christmas classic to life with stunning choreography, elaborate costumes, and mesmerizing stage designs. Audiences will be taken on a magical journey following Clara, her enchanted Nutcracker doll, and the mysterious magician Drosselmeyer, all set to iconic compositions such as the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Waltz of the Flowers.” Perfect for the festive season, the show promises an enchanting experience for all.

• Dates: 19 December 2024- 22 December 2024
• Timings:  2:00 PM or 9:00 PM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 290 AED (check availability)
• Location: Dubai Opera

QE2 Christmas Concert in Dubai

The QE2 Christmas Concert is a festive, family-friendly event held aboard the iconic QE2 ship in Dubai. Featuring the Dubai Singers choir, the program includes traditional carols, Christmas songs, amusing readings, and opportunities for audience participation, including a sing-along. The event promises a joyful atmosphere with festive treats like mince pies and mulled wine, making it a delightful celebration for all ages.

• Dates: 12 December 2024
• Timings: 7:30 PM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 100 AED (check availability)
• Location: Queen Elizabeth 2

Christmas Concert with Dubai City Sound Choir at The Fridge in Dubai

It is a festive musical celebration that offers a fresh take on traditional Christmas carols. Set in the unique venue of The Fridge Warehouse in Alserkal Avenue, the event features reimagined arrangements performed by talented musicians, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for the holiday season​.

• Dates: 8 December 2024
• Timings: 4:00 PM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 60 AED (check availability)
• Location: Alserkal Avenue

Wizard of Oz at Theatre by QE2, Dubai

The “Wizard of Oz” production at the Theatre by QE2 in Dubai is a festive, family-friendly musical adaptation of the classic story. Featuring professional actors, vibrant sets, toe-tapping songs, and audience participation, this Christmas show takes you on a magical journey with Dorothy, Toto, and their friends as they travel the yellow brick road to Oz, facing challenges from the Wicked Witch along the way. Perfect for all ages, this live performance promises fun, excitement, and holiday cheer.

• Dates: 14 December 2024- 26 December 2024
• Timings: 1:30 PM or 5:30 PM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from 60 AED (check availability)
• Location: Queen Elizabeth 2

Pluma Show/Circus in Dubai

The Pluma Show/Circus in Dubai is a modern circus experience held at the Pluma Circus Tent in Dubai Festival City Mall. It tells the inspiring story of Pluma, a young girl discovering empowerment and chasing her dreams through breathtaking acrobatics, aerial stunts, and captivating visuals. Designed for all ages, the show features a mix of daring performances, immersive storytelling, and a magical atmosphere perfect for families and friends.

• Dates: 5 December 2024- 12 January 2024
• Timings: Thursdays: 7:00 PM; Fridays & Saturdays: 5:00 PM & 7:30 PM; Sundays: 5:00 PM
• Entry fee/Ticket Price: from  (check availability)
• Location: Dubai Festival City Mall

As you can see, there are a lot of inexpensive or even free activities in our choices for Dubai’s Christmas season. We also suggest that you check the establishments’ official websites and social media accounts, as some may not have the most recent information on winter events. Put on the red cap to make yourself appear like Santa’s elf helper, read our Christmas guide, and take in Dubai’s blasting New Year’s vibes.