Things You Must Do In Dubai During Your Christmas Vacation
Dubai, a city known for its ultramodern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious lifestyle, also offers an enchanting experience during the Christmas season. Despite its desert climate, Dubai goes all out to celebrate Christmas with great pomp and show. If you're planning a holiday in Dubai during this festive season, here are some activities and experiences you absolutely must not miss.
1. Explore the Winter Wonderland at Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates is a unique place to start your Christmas adventure. It’s an indoor ski resort with 22,500 square meters of indoor ski area. Here, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing, or just play in the snow. During Christmas, Ski Dubai transforms into a winter wonderland with festive decorations and activities.
Highlights:
Meet the Snow Penguins
Enjoy the chairlift ride
Participate in the Snow Bullet ride
2. Visit the Dubai Opera’s Festive Shows
Dubai Opera becomes a hub of cultural activity during the festive season. You can catch a variety of shows from ballets and operas to classical concerts and more. Christmas classics like The Nutcracker are often part of the seasonal repertoire.
Highlights:
Experience world-class acoustics
Enjoy festive-themed performances
Explore the stunning architecture of the opera house
3. Wander Through the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
The Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market is one of Dubai’s most picturesque holiday markets. Set against the backdrop of meandering waterways and the iconic Burj Al Arab, this market offers a magical festive experience with stalls selling unique gifts, seasonal treats, and traditional decorations.
Highlights:
Abra rides around the waterways
Live music and dance performances
Delicious festive foods and beverages
4. Enjoy a Desert Safari Experience
A desert safari in Dubai during Christmas? Why not! The cool December weather is perfect for a safari where you can enjoy dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional Arabian night with belly dancing, henna, and a barbecue dinner under the stars.
Highlights:
Experience dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle
Watch the sunset over the desert
Enjoy a Bedouin-style camp evening
5. Marvel at the Dubai Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is a spectacular outdoor recreation park known for its unique light installations and live performances. During Christmas, the theme park is decked up in festive lights and offers a plethora of activities for families.
Highlights:
Dinosaur Park with life-sized models
Glow Park with eco-friendly light art
Art Park with installations made from recyclable materials
6. Shop at the Global Village
Global Village is Dubai’s leading family entertainment and cultural attraction with a unique shopping experience at its heart. The pavilions from different countries offer a festive shopping experience with a plethora of artisan gifts and exotic snacks.
Highlights:
Fireworks displays
Concerts and live performances
Carnival rides and games
7. Dine on a Christmas-Themed Cruise
Embark on a Christmas-themed Dhow Cruise along Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. These cruises offer a special festive menu, decorations, and sometimes even Santa visits, providing a memorable dining experience with stunning views of the city skyline.
Highlights:
Live entertainment and music
Sumptuous buffet with festive specialties
Stunning views of Dubai’s skyline
8. Indulge in Festive Dining at Atlantis The Palm
Atlantis The Palm offers a range of festive dining options during Christmas. Their restaurants serve special Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day meals that include everything from traditional turkey dinners to luxurious seafood buffets.
Highlights:
Underwater dining at Ossiano
Festive brunches and dinners
Specially curated menus by renowned chefs
9. Capture the Festivities at Dubai Festival City
Dubai Festival City hosts one of the most spectacular Christmas celebrations. The Festival Bay gets a festive makeover with the Imagine show – a stunning display of lasers, lights, and fountains.
Highlights:
IMAGINE show of water, pyrotechnics, and lasers
Themed marketplaces and pop-up shops
Live entertainment and activities for kids
10. Visit Santa at WAFI Mall
WAFI Mall is known for its extravagant Christmas tree and life-sized gingerbread house. It also hosts a range of activities including a visit from Santa Claus, making it perfect for younger visitors.
Highlights:
Meet and greet with Santa Claus
Choir performances featuring Christmas carols
Unique Egyptian-themed architecture
11. Experience the Winter Festival at City Walk
The Winter Festival at City Walk is a must-visit for its European-style Christmas market, ice rink, and festive workshops. It’s a great place to soak up the holiday atmosphere while enjoying outdoor shopping and dining.
Highlights:
Artisan market stalls
Outdoor ice skating rink
Workshops for all ages
12. Enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea at Burj Al Arab
The iconic Burj Al Arab offers a luxurious festive afternoon tea in its sumptuous Skyview Bar. Enjoy a selection of tea, sandwiches, scones, and pastries with a panoramic view of the Arabian Gulf.
Highlights:
Panoramic views from the Skyview Bar
A selection of teas and a festive menu
Live piano music
What is the weather like in Dubai during Christmas?
The weather in Dubai during December is generally mild and pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C.
Are there any Christmas-specific events in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai hosts a variety of Christmas-specific events including markets, festivals, themed dinners, and shows throughout December.
Can you find traditional Christmas meals in Dubai?
Absolutely! Many restaurants and hotels in Dubai offer traditional Christmas meals, including turkey dinners with all the trimmings.
Is it necessary to book attractions in advance during Christmas in Dubai?
It is highly recommended to book popular attractions and dining experiences in advance during the festive season, as they can get quite crowded.
What are some good places to shop for Christmas gifts in Dubai?
Some of the best places to shop for Christmas gifts in Dubai include the Dubai Mall, Global Village, and various festive markets around the city.
How do I get around Dubai during my Christmas vacation?
Dubai offers several convenient transportation options including taxis, the metro, buses, and even traditional boats called abras. Renting a car is also a popular option.
Direct BookingDubai transforms into a festive paradise during Christmas, offering a blend of traditional and unique holiday experiences. From snowy adventures at Ski Dubai to luxurious festive dinners at the world’s most iconic hotels, there’s something for everyone in this dazzling city. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Christmas vacation in Dubai!
Ready to explore Dubai this Christmas? Visit us at Forever Tourism LLC to plan your perfect holiday!