Each December, the UAE turns into a dazzling winter wonderland, combining classic holiday cheer with contemporary Arabian elegance. Whether you’re an expat craving familiar festive customs, a tourist discovering new celebrations, or a local family seeking seasonal entertainment, this complete guide provides all the essential information about Christmas 2025 in the UAE.
Christmas Traditions Meet Emirati Hospitality
Although Christmas is not an official public holiday in the UAE, the country enthusiastically celebrates the festive season. The festivities are mainly cultural and commercial, with hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues offering enchanting experiences that compare to traditional Christmas destinations only with sunshine and palm trees instead of snow.
Here’s a revised event list focused exclusively on Christmas events:
Notes:
- TBC = To Be Confirmed
- Dates are approximate and subject to change
- Check reference links for latest updates and bookings
Your Perfect Match If…DUBAI: Christmas Markets & Events
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
The crown jewel of Dubai’s festive celebrations, this is the most beloved Christmas market in the city.
- Monday to Thursday: 3:00 PM onwards
- Friday to Sunday: 12:00 PM onwards
Location: Fort Island, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Dates: December 5-31, 2025
Timings: Monday to Thursday: 3:00 PM onwards
Friday to Sunday: 12:00 PM onwards
Entry: FREE (individual activities priced separately)
Highlights:
- Massive 36-foot Christmas tree with light and sound shows
- 1,750 square meters of festive souk space
- Live band playing holiday classics
- North Pole train ride for children
- Venetian carousel
- Four-lane bungee jumping
- Unique festive abra rides with Santa Claus
- Snow fight zone
- Seasonal food stalls and artisanal gifts
- Handcrafted ornaments and local items
Best For: Families, photographers, couples seeking romantic ambiance
Getting There: Located in Jumeirah, easily accessible via Sheikh Zayed Road. Ample parking available at Madinat Jumeirah.
Winter City at Expo City Dubai
A full winter festival experience at the iconic Al Wasl Plaza.
Location: Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai
Dates: December 6-31, 2025
Timings: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily
Entry: AED 50 per person (Children under 3: FREE)
(Free for Al Wasl Season Pass holders)
Highlights:
- Giant Christmas tree with daily lighting ceremony
- Disney+ themed area (new for 2025)
- Festive workshops and crafts
- Seasonal food and beverages
- Live entertainment and carol singing
- Interactive family zones
- Candy Cane Comet theme with “Candy Cane Watchers” activities
- One lucky guest selected daily to light the Christmas tree
- Snow globe photo opportunities
- Make-A-Wish toy drive
Best For: Families with young children, structured activity seekers
Getting There: Expo City is easily accessible via Al Khail Road. Free parking available.
Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers
A chic, free festive market beside the Museum of the Future.
Location: Square in front of Museum of the Future, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Dates: December 13-28, 2025
Timings:
- Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
- Weekends: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Entry: FREE (activities priced individually)
Highlights:
- Festive marketplace with high-end retail stalls
- Gourmet food concepts and international cuisine
- Bar lounge with festive cocktails and warm beverages
- Ice rink for skating
- Santa’s Grotto for children
- Live entertainment (music, carolers, dance shows)
- Children’s zone with inflatables
- Carnival games and workshops
- Escape room experience
- Hourly live performances
Best For: Adults, couples, photography enthusiasts, evening outings
Getting There: Located on Sheikh Zayed Road near DIFC. Metro: Emirates Towers Station
Dubai Festival City – Celebration by the Bay
Waterfront festive market with carnival vibes.
Location: Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall Waterfront
Dates: December 12, 2025 – January 7, 2026
Timings:
- Weekdays: 4:00 PM onwards
- Weekends: Extended hours until midnight/1:00 AM
Entry: FREE (some activities separately priced)
Highlights:
- Wooden-style market huts with gifts and ornaments
- Experiential food market with diverse vendors
- Carnival game stalls (archery, axe throwing)
- Inflatable park with slides, obstacle courses, trampolines
- Interactive art installations
- Cultural events and performances
- Famous fountain and laser light show (every 30 minutes from 7:30 PM)
- Waterfront dining options
Best For: Families seeking entertainment variety, evening strollers
Getting There: Located on Crescent Road. Ample parking at Dubai Festival City Mall.
Experience Christmas in real snow!
Location: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates
Dates: December 1-25, 2025
Timings: Daily during mall hours
Entry: From AED 140 – AED 160
Highlights:
- Real snow environment
- Santa meet-and-greets
- Hot chocolate station
- Snow Park activities
- Festive decorations throughout the attraction
- Warming treats and seasonal beverages
Best For: Families wanting a traditional snowy Christmas experience
Legoland Dubai – Festive Bricktacular
Location: Legoland Dubai Resort
Dates: December 8, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Timings: Park operating hours
Entry:
- Online: AED 295 per person
- Gate: AED 330 per person
Highlights:
- Festive Fun Calendar activities
- Candy cane hunts
- Lego Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony
- Holiday-themed treats and crafts
- Special seasonal activities throughout the park
Best For: Families with children aged 2-12
Charming waterfront market with traditional vibes.
Location: Al Seef, Dubai Creek
Dates: December 1-31, 2025
Timings:
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Entry: FREE
Highlights:
- String lights and lanterns along the waterfront
- Handmade crafts and artisanal pieces
- Seasonal bites and traditional treats
- Laid-back atmosphere by the creek
- Beautiful photo opportunities
Best For: Couples, intimate gatherings, those seeking quieter festive vibes
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Christmas Village
Location: Centara Mirage Beach Resort, Deira Islands
Dates: December 5-31, 2025
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry: FREE
Highlights:
- Giant gingerbread house
- Snow-play zones
- Artisanal crafts and Christmas decorations
- Carol singers and live music
- Festive character meet-and-greets
- Cookie decorating workshops
- Gingerbread house making classes
- Seasonal treats (stollen, pudding, gingerbread)
Best For: Resort guests, families with young children
ICD Brookfield Place Festive Market
Location: Level 1, ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC
Dates: Select dates in December 2025
Timings: TBC
Entry: FREE
Highlights:
- Chic shopping environment
- Gourmet food stalls
- Artisanal gift vendors
- Elegant Christmas atmosphere
- Perfect for corporate gifting
Best For: Professionals, luxury shoppers, corporate events
Location: Wafi City Mall
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Timings: Mall operating hours
Entry: FREE (activities separately priced)
Highlights:
- Indoor festive magic
- Santa’s Grotto
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Festive decorations throughout the mall
Best For: Families seeking indoor activities
Magical Christmas World at Dubai Autodrome
Location: Dubai Autodrome, Motor City
Dates: December 17-26, 2025 (LIMITED TIME!)
Timings: TBC
Entry: TBC
Highlights:
- Giant Christmas tree
- Santa Claus meet-and-greet with photo opportunities
- Bouncy castles for children
- Gingerbread house building
- Face painting
- Food and beverage stands
Best For: Last-minute festive outings, families
ABU DHABI: Christmas Events & Markets
Yas Winter Fest FLAGSHIP EVENT
Location: Yas Gateway Park, Yas Island
Dates: December 13, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Timings: Daily (extended festival period)
Entry: From AED 160 per adult (tickets available online)
Highlights:
- 45-foot Christmas tree
- Ice skating rink
- Live music performances
- Winter marketplace with craft vendors
- Carnival rides and attractions
- Festive food stalls
- Santa’s Village with letter writing
- Santa meet-and-greets throughout December
- Snowfall Park with giant snow globe
- Winter inflatables
- Celebration Stage with live shows and choir performances
- Outdoor movie screenings
- Nightly tree-lighting ceremony
Best For: Families wanting all-in-one festive experience, extended stay visitors
Getting There: Yas Island, accessible via Yas Highway. Multiple parking zones available.
Snow Abu Dhabi Winter Wonderland
Location: Snow Abu Dhabi, Reem Mall
Dates: December 12-25, 2025
Timings: Daily mall hours (tickets on sale from December 1)
Entry:
- Standard meet-and-greet: From AED 165 (early bird AED 130 Dec 4-13)
- Family Pass (up to 4 people): AED 499
- Breakfast with Santa (Dec 14-25): 0-2 years AED 75, 2+ years/adults AED 150
Highlights:
- Real snow environment
- Forest of Christmas trees
- Mail wish lists to North Pole
- Santa Claus and elves meet-and-greet
- Magical photo opportunities
- Christmas goodie bags
- Hot chocolate included
- Snow park adventures
- Breakfast with Santa experience
- Snowman building
- Snow Movies
Best For: Families with children aged 2+, snow experience seekers
Location: Main Atrium, Ground Floor, Reem Mall
Dates: Until December 28, 2025
Timings:
- Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Entry: FREE
Highlights:
- Santa letter-writing station with weekly gift presentations
- Gift wrapping counter
- Advent calendar “spin to win” experience
- Arts, crafts, and balloon making in play area
- Snow globe photo experience
- Weekend live performances
- Make-A-Wish toy drive donation station
Best For: Families seeking free indoor activities
Winter Village at Abu Dhabi Mall
Location: Atrium, Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Zahiyah
Dates: December 12, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Timings: Mall operating hours
Entry: FREE (some activities charge small fees)
Highlights:
- Festive Market (December 12-24)
- Themed photo opportunities
- Tinsel Woods walk-through experience
- Santa appearances
- Live performances and entertainment
- Holiday food stalls
- Snow machines
- Craft workshops
Best For: Central Abu Dhabi residents, mall-based festivities
Winter Wonderland at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
Location: North Atrium, Level G, The Galleria
Dates: December 6-26, 2025
Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entry: FREE (Santa meet-and-greet requires registration)
Highlights:
- Fresh festive installations
- Meet Elva – UAE’s first AI elf influencer
- Santa’s Winter Fair with multiple zones
- Craft stations and games
- Snowball toss and antler toss games
- Letter writing to Santa
- Interactive photo opportunities
- Waterfront promenade atmosphere
Best For: Tech-savvy families, city-center visitors
Christmas Market Under the Dome at Emirates Palace
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Dates: December 5-8 & December 24-26, 2025
Timings: TBC
Entry: FREE (parking fills quickly – arrive early)
Highlights:
- Luxury dome setting
- Artisan crafts and gourmet food stalls
- Carol singers
- High-end festive atmosphere
- Perfect for luxury gift shopping
Best For: Luxury shoppers, elegant festive experience
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – WinterFest
Location: Ferrari World, Yas Island
Dates: Until January 11, 2026
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry: From AED 345 (theme park admission)
Highlights:
- Gio’s Winter Wishes themed zones
- NEW ice rink opening
- Tree-lighting ceremony on Italian Street
- Daily advent calendar giveaways at La Piazza
- Story-time sessions
- Snow playground
- Little Pioneers Village for younger children
- Festive character encounters
Best For: Theme park enthusiasts, families with older children
Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi Christmas Celebrations
Location: Warner Bros World, Yas Island
Dates: Until January 11, 2026
Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry: From AED 345
Highlights:
- Festive character meet-and-greets
- Holiday-themed attractions
- Seasonal decorations throughout the park
Best For: Theme park fans, character enthusiasts
SHARJAH: Christmas Events
Enchanted Southern Gardens Winter Festival
Location: House of Wisdom, Southern Gardens
Dates: December 14-25, 2025
Timings: Late afternoon and evening
Entry: Likely FREE (check House of Wisdom calendar)
Highlights:
- “The Little Prince” festival theme
- Illuminated story world
- Themed paths and storytelling corners
- Theatre shows
- Art workshops
- Explorer’s Passport with stamp-collecting activities
Best For: Literature lovers, families with artistic children
Note: Sharjah also hosts New Year’s Eve fireworks at three coastal locations: Al Majaz Waterfront (5-minute show), Khor Fakkan Beach (10-minute display), and Al Heera Beach (10-minute display).
AJMAN: Christmas Celebrations
Ajman Saray, A Luxury Collection Resort
Location: Ajman Saray Resort
Dates: December events throughout the month
Entry: Various packages available
Highlights:
- Festive afternoon tea
- Christmas brunches
- New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner (AED 1,100 per person – compulsory for Dec 31 reservations)
- Beachfront festive atmosphere
Best For: Luxury seekers, resort guests
CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCES & ENTERTAINMENT
The Nutcracker Ballet at Dubai Opera
Dates: December 18-21, 2025
Price: TBC
Performer: Astrakhan Theatre Opera Ballet
Classical Tchaikovsky performance telling Clara’s enchanting story.
Location: New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates
Dates: December 19-21, 2025
Price: From AED 195
Irish-inspired festive concert with music, laughter, and traditional favorites.
Location: Expo City Dubai
Dates: Multiple shows in December
Price: TBC
Firdaus Orchestra performing enchanting carols with live dancers and Christmas-themed projections.
The Great Christmas Elf Bake Off
Location: Theatre by QE2, Port Rashid
Dates: December 6-7, 2025
Price: AED 75
Location: New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates
Dates: December 6-25, 2025
Price: Children AED 165, Adults AED 120
Traditional Christmas attraction with Santa encounters.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Hotel Theatre
Dates: Throughout December
Price: TBC
CHRISTMAS DINING: BRUNCHES & DINNERS
Top Festive Dining Experiences:
Premium Brunches (Christmas Day):
- Atlantis, The Palm: Multiple venues with packages from AED 399-799
- Nammos Dubai: Mykonos-meets-Dubai glamour, seasonal menu
- CE LA VI: Pan-Asian menu with Burj Khalifa views
- La Petite Maison: Alsace-inspired décor, Mediterranean cuisine
- Carine: Relaxed elegant dining with live DJ
Christmas Eve Dinners:
- IHG Hotels & Resorts: 30% off at 40+ restaurants (Dec 8 – Jan 7)
- Barbossa: Sharing platters, 2-4 hour packages from AED 299-699
- Multiple hotel venues: Packages from AED 395-695 per person
Turkey Takeaway Options:
- Atlantis, The Palm: Medium (6-8 people) or Large (10-12 people)
- Rodeo Drive: Whole Turkey Feast or Turkey Roulade Feast
- Various hotels offering complete Christmas meal packages
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS FEATURES
Dubai Shopping Festival 2025
Dates: December 5, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Daily car and cash prizes, mega sales, concerts, raffles, and fireworks throughout the city.
Christmas Day Fireworks
Location: Al Seef, Dubai Creek
Date: December 25, 2025
Time: 9:00 PM
Duration: 3 minutes
Entry: FREE
Festive Restaurant Decorations:
Popular restaurants like La Petite Maison, CE LA VI, Signor Sassi, and others feature elaborate Christmas décor creating Instagram-worthy dining experiences.
PRICING GUIDE & BUDGETING
Free Events:
- Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market (entry)
- Winter District at Emirates Towers
- Al Seef Christmas Market
- Dubai Festival City – Celebration by the Bay
- Most mall-based markets
- Reem Mall Fa La La Land
Budget-Friendly (Under AED 100):
- Winter City at Expo City: AED 50
- The Great Christmas Elf Bake Off: AED 75
Mid-Range (AED 100-300):
- Ski Dubai Winter Wonderland: AED 140-160
- The Grotto Dubai: AED 120-165
- Snow Abu Dhabi: AED 130-165 (early bird)
- Yas Winter Fest: AED 160+
- Legoland Festive Bricktacular: AED 295-330
- A Fairytale for Christmas: From AED 195
Premium (AED 300+):
- Ferrari World WinterFest: AED 345+
- Warner Bros World: AED 345+
- Snow Abu Dhabi Family Pass: AED 499
- Christmas Brunches: AED 299-798+
- New Year’s Eve Gala Dinners: AED 1,100+
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Weather in December:
- Average Temperature: 24-27°C (75-81°F)
- Evening Temperature: Can drop to 15-18°C (59-64°F)
- What to Pack: Light clothing for day, jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes
Getting Around:
- Dubai Metro: Convenient for DIFC, Emirates Towers, Mall of the Emirates
- Taxis/Ride-sharing: Readily available (Uber, Careem, RTA taxis)
- Parking: Most venues offer ample parking; arrive early for popular events
- Public Transport: Efficient bus network connects major attractions
Booking Tips:
- Book Early: Popular events and restaurants fill up fast
- Check Websites: Confirm timings and prices before visiting
- Buy Online: Often cheaper than gate prices
- Follow Social Media: Updates on special offers and schedule changes
- Plan Weekday Visits: Less crowded than weekends
- Sunset Timing: Arrive before sunset for best photo opportunities
Cultural Considerations:
- Dress modestly in public areas
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Keep public displays of affection minimal
- The UAE is a Muslim country; be mindful during prayer times
- Alcohol is served in licensed venues (hotels, restaurants)
Family-Friendly Tips:
- Many venues offer dedicated children’s activities
- Baby changing facilities available at major malls
- Stroller-friendly venues throughout
- Evening events may end late; plan accordingly for young children
IDEAL AUDIENCE FOR UAE CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Expat Families
Perfect for families missing traditional Christmas celebrations. The UAE offers familiar festive traditions with unique local touches.
Tourists & Visitors
Ideal for travelers seeking a unique Christmas experience combining sunshine, luxury, and holiday cheer.
Couples
Romantic festive settings at Madinat Jumeirah, Al Seef, and fine dining venues create memorable experiences.
Solo Travelers
Safe, welcoming environment with numerous events and activities. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are particularly solo-traveler friendly.
Corporate Groups
Excellent venues for team celebrations and corporate events, especially at DIFC, hotel venues, and private bookings.
Adventure Seekers
Theme parks, ice rinks, snow experiences, and outdoor activities provide exciting alternatives to traditional Christmas.
Luxury Travelers
High-end hotels, premium dining, and exclusive events cater to those seeking opulent celebrations.
Budget Travelers
Numerous free events and budget-friendly options ensure everyone can enjoy the festive season.
CONTACT INFORMATION & WEBSITES
Dubai Events:
- Visit Dubai: www.visitdubai.com
- Expo City Dubai: www.expocitydubai.com
- Madinat Jumeirah: www.jumeirah.com
- Winter District: www.winterdistrict.com
- Ski Dubai: www.skidxb.com
- Dubai Festival City: www.dubaifestivalcity.com
Abu Dhabi Events:
- Visit Abu Dhabi: www.visitabudhabi.ae
- Yas Island: www.yasisland.com
- Ferrari World: www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com
- Warner Bros World: www.wbworld abudhabi.com
- Centara Hotels: www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Booking Platforms:
- Platinum List: www.platinumlist.net
- Book My Show: www.bookmyshow.ae
- Virgin Megastore Tickets: www.virginmegastore.ae
FINAL THOUGHTS
Christmas in the UAE offers a unique blend of traditional festive spirit and modern Arabian hospitality. Whether you’re seeking snow in the desert, luxury dining with a view, family-friendly entertainment, or romantic festive markets, the UAE delivers memorable experiences that rival any global Christmas destination.
The 2025 festive season promises to be bigger and better than ever, with new attractions, expanded events, and enhanced experiences across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and beyond. From the towering Christmas trees and twinkling lights to Santa on an abra and fireworks over the creek, the UAE transforms the holiday season into something truly magical.
Top Recommendations:
- Must-Visit: Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market (Dubai)
- Best Value: Winter City at Expo City Dubai
- Most Unique: Snow Abu Dhabi Winter Wonderland
- Longest Running: Yas Winter Fest (until Jan 11, 2026)
- Most Romantic: Al Seef Christmas Market at sunset
- Best for Kids: Legoland Festive Bricktacular
- Luxury Experience: Emirates Palace Christmas Market
Start planning your festive UAE adventure today. Book your tickets early and prepare for a Christmas celebration unlike any other, where desert sunshine meets winter wonderland magic!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Note: All information is accurate as of December 2025. Please verify timings, prices, and availability on official websites before visiting, as schedules may change.
