In this sparkling round-up of joyful celebrations, discover all the festive happenings and feel-good traditions taking over the country this season
The cooler breezes of winter have finally begun to drift in, and the city streets are quickly starting to shimmer with fairy lights, as Christmas in the UAE arrives with an unmistakable sense of magic. The country never does things in half measure, serving up lavish celebrations at world-class hotels, charming festive markets, winter wonderlands, and plenty of family-friendly events across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As always, the season is filled with countless ways to celebrate, and this year, the country is going all out once again, turning every corner into a joyful reminder that the holidays can be just as enchanting in the desert as they are anywhere else in the world.
A Uniquely UAE Christmas
Christmas in Dubai and Christmas in Abu Dhabi truly have a character all their own. Rather than leaning solely on tradition, the UAE blends global customs with its own flair for spectacle, style, and warm hospitality. Think towering Christmas trees in opulent hotel lobbies, dazzling light installations, and outdoor festivities enjoyed under clear December skies. It is a season filled with colour, energy, and a sense of celebration that sweeps effortlessly across the city’s grand landmarks and its hidden neighbourhood gems.
While many places around the world celebrate Christmas in the cold, Christmas in the UAE embraces the sunshine. Visitors and residents wander through festive markets in t-shirts, children race through snow-themed parks crafted especially for the season, and twilight tree-lightings glow against the warm tones of the desert sunset. It is a refreshing, unexpected, and wonderfully memorable way to celebrate the holidays.
Multicultural Celebrations
One of the most remarkable things about celebrating Christmas in the UAE is its rich multicultural influence. With residents from all over the globe, the country becomes a tapestry of traditions. Classic roast dinners, winter-themed festivals, beachside brunches, wellness-inspired gatherings, and contemporary celebrations all become the order of business, with something for everyone to enjoy. You will find European-style markets, Middle Eastern-inspired menus, Asian festive feasts, and modern seasonal twists created by chefs and artisans who call the Emirates home. It is a joyful blend of cultures, making Christmas feel both familiar and delightfully new.
Festive Happenings Across the Emirates
Across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, hotels, resorts, and destinations are embracing the holiday spirit with an incredible calendar of events.
One of the biggest highlights this season is the Yas Winter Fest, transporting ten days of festive fun to Yas Island. This enchanting event transforms Yas Gateway Park into a winter wonderland complete with shimmering decorations, nightly tree lightings, Santa meet-and-greets, a snow park for little ones, carnival rides, creative workshops, a festive market, live entertainment, and an array of delicious seasonal bites. With activities for every age, it has become one of the most anticipated celebrations of Christmas in Abu Dhabi.
Over at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, the celebrations are already in full swing with a vibrant line-up of family-friendly activities and unforgettable dining experiences. The magical tree-lighting ceremony in the grand lobby set the tone, while the upcoming festive day brunch, which will be filled with international delights, sees the resort capture the heart of the holiday season. Guests can also enjoy themed classes, pool parties, soothing wellness sessions, and festive live entertainment throughout the month, creating a lively and uplifting atmosphere.
Rove Hotels is bringing comfort and charm to Christmas in Dubai with its 12 Days of Festive Treats dinner across The Daily restaurants. Guests can tuck into traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, festive starters, hearty vegetarian options, and indulgent desserts in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Boasting a casual ambience and warm hospitality, it is a favourite for families and groups looking for a laid-back yet festive evening.
Meanwhile, Al Habtoor Polo Resort is rolling out a full calendar of seasonal happenings, including tree lightings, festive parties, wholesome Christmas brunches, and a disco-themed New Year’s Eve celebration. Guests can even order a beautifully prepared Turkey Takeaway to enjoy at home, perfect for those who want to bring a piece of the resort’s culinary magic to their own holiday table.
Across the emirates, hotels and dining destinations continue to elevate the season, so no matter your style, traditional, luxurious, relaxed, or adventurous, you will find countless ways to soak up the festive spirit.
Wrapping Up the Festivities
With so much to enjoy across the country, Christmas in the UAE is always a month-long celebration filled with joy and anticipation. Embrace the season, explore the festivities, and let the sparkle of Christmas in Dubai, Christmas in Abu Dhabi, and Christmas across the UAE guide you into holiday cheer.
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