8 Festive Things to Do in Dubai This Christmas

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Top Things to Do This Christmas in Dubai: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Dubai is a tourist hotspot all around the year, but Dubai during Christmas is one-of-a-kind. With the pleasant weather (averaging 26°C/78°F) foretelling Santa Claus’s arrival, the city is wrapped in a blanket of warm lights.

The city embraces and celebrates the rich traditions of Christmas in its own style. Saying there are many exciting things to do in Dubai during Christmas is rather an understatement.

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We have taken the liberty to shortlist the top things to do this Christmas in Dubai with updated details for 2025.

Activity	Highlights	Dates & Pricing (Est.)
Visit Christmas Markets	Festive shopping, mulled wine, and Santa visits.	Dec 8 – Jan 7 Entry: Free to AED 30
Christmas Lights	Habtoor Palace & Dubai Festival City displays.	Throughout Dec Free
Christmas Eve Dinner	Gourmet 3-course meals & live jazz.	Dec 24 AED 350 – AED 900+
Christmas Day Brunch	Lavish family feasts with turkey & trimmings.	Dec 25 AED 450 – AED 850+
Winter Fun at Ski Dubai	Meet Santa in the snow.	Dec 1 – 25 From AED 150
Desert Christmas	Camel rides & BBQ under the stars.	Dec 24 – 25 AED 250+
Turkey Takeaways	5-Star roasts delivered to your door.	Order 48hrs prior AED 500 – AED 900

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1. Visit Dubai’s Best Christmas Markets

Beautiful street market at sunset in Dubai

Markets in Dubai are iconic, but the Christmas markets offer a distinct “European winter” vibe right in the Middle East. Expect handmade ornaments, mulled wine (at licensed venues), and visits from Santa.

Top Market Comparisons:

Market	Best For	Insider Tip
Madinat Jumeirah	Traditional German vibe & Abra rides.	Arrive by 4 PM to beat the parking rush.
Global Village	International gifts & massive scale.	Check out the “Snowfest” ice rink.
Expo City (Winter City)	Eco-friendly decor & Santa’s Grotto.	Great for families; mostly free entry.
Winter District	Urban vibes near Media City.	Perfect for after-work festive drinks.

Looking for the best shopping and dining experience? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Dragon Mart for an insider’s look at what this iconic destination has to offer.

2. Experience the Christmas Lights & Habtoor Palace

Woman taking photos of Christmas lights in Dubai

Christmas lighting is one of the biggest attractions in Dubai. While the malls are great, the real magic happens outdoors.

Habtoor Palace Winter Garden: This is arguably the most famous spot. It features a massive tree, food stalls, and live carolers. Note: There is often a redeemable entry fee (approx. AED 25).
Dubai Festival City: Watch the “Imagine” show with a special festive twist.
JBR & Dubai Marina: Perfect for a festive walk along the beach.

Logistics Tip: Traffic around Dubai Mall and JBR becomes gridlocked after 6:00 PM in December. We highly recommend using the Dubai Metro to travel between these major light displays.

If you’re in search of a unique getaway, Jebel Hafeet should be at the top of your list—check out our guide to make the most of your visit to this stunning mountain.

3. Celebrate Christmas Eve at Iconic Restaurants

Friends celebrating Christmas Eve dinner in Dubai

Dubai has long made its name on the culinary map. For Christmas Eve (December 24th), reservations are essential—ideally booked 3 weeks in advance.

Luxury: At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa. Dining on top of the world. Expect to pay premium prices (AED 1000+ per person).
Festive & Fun: The Irish Village. A more casual, lively atmosphere with a giant tree and traditional roasts.
Family: Reform Social & Grill. Great for kids, offering a British gastropub vibe.

Looking for the perfect spot to celebrate a festive business lunch this Christmas? Check out our full blog on the Best Business Lunch Destinations in Dubai.

4. Christmas Day Brunch: The Main Event

Christmas Brunch spread in Dubai

The “Christmas Brunch” is a Dubai institution. It typically runs from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on December 25th.

2025 Top Picks & Estimated Prices:

Ritz-Carlton JBR: The “London Social” Christmas edition. Approx AED 695 (Soft drinks) / AED 825 (House beverages).
Bubbalicious at The Westin: Massive spread, very popular. Approx AED 750+.
Atlantis The Palm (Saffron): A party vibe perfect for groups. Approx AED 500+.

Looking for a romantic Christmas getaway? Read our full blog on Ajman’s Hidden Gems to discover the best spots for a memorable holiday with your loved one.

5. Winter Fun at Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai - Snow Park Package

What is Christmas without snow? Ski Dubai offers the “Meet Santa” package. Tickets usually sell out by early December, so book online immediately.

The temperature inside is kept at -4°C, so dress warmly! Packages often include a hot chocolate, a printed photo with Santa, and access to the Snow Park rides.

6. Host at Home: Best Turkey Takeaways

Prefer to stay in your pajamas? Dubai’s top hotels offer “Turkey Takeaway” boxes. These come fully cooked with sides like Brussels sprouts, roasted potatoes, and stuffing.

Jones the Grocer: Famous for their roast packages (approx AED 695 for 6-8 people).
Address Hotels: Luxury turkey takeaway options.
Order Deadline: Most places require orders 48 to 72 hours in advance.

7. Celebrate Christmas in the Desert

snowman in the desert

For a non-traditional celebration, head to the dunes. Many desert safari operators run special “Christmas Day Safaris.”

Expect a BBQ dinner with a turkey twist, belly dancing, and even a Santa arriving on a camel! It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and perfect for visitors wanting to blend UAE culture with Christmas tradition.

8. Christmas Shows & Performances

Santa Claus jumping in front of a christmas tree

Cultural enthusiasts should head to the Dubai Opera. The classic The Nutcracker is a staple performance starting mid-December.

Dubai Opera: The Nutcracker (Dec 19 onwards).
Theatre by QE2: usually hosts family pantomimes like Wizard of Oz.
Zabeel Theatre: Look out for Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

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A Perfect Christmas Day Itinerary in Dubai

Not sure how to plan the big day? Try this schedule:

09:00 AM: Breakfast at Jumeirah Beach (weather is perfect).
01:00 PM: The Grand Christmas Brunch (Book months ahead).
05:00 PM: Walk off the food at the Global Village Winter Wonderland.
08:00 PM: Watch the Dubai Fountain show (Free).

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

1. Is alcohol served during Christmas in Dubai?
Yes. Alcohol is served in licensed venues (hotels, bars, clubs) and at most Christmas Brunches. However, drinking in public streets or strictly public beaches is not allowed.

2. What is the weather like in Dubai during Christmas?
It is pleasant and mild. Expect daytime highs of 26°C (79°F) and cooler evenings around 16°C (60°F). You might need a light jacket for outdoor markets at night.

3. Do I need to book Christmas Brunch in advance?
Absolutely. The popular venues (Ritz-Carlton, Bubbalicious, etc.) often sell out by late November or early December.

4. Where can I see a huge Christmas tree in Dubai?
The most iconic trees are at Galeries Lafayette (Dubai Mall), the Habtoor Palace Winter Garden, and Town Square Dubai.

5. Are shops open on Christmas Day?
Yes, Christmas is not a public holiday in the UAE (though widely celebrated). Malls, supermarkets, and attractions remain open with standard operating hours.

8 Festive Things to Do in Dubai This Christmas