Top 10 Things to Do in Dubai on a Christmas Holiday
Dubai sparkles with magic during the Christmas season, offering a blend of tradition, luxury, and adventure. It’s a city that never sleeps, where festive lights twinkle against the futuristic skyline, and the desert beckons just beyond the shimmering skyscrapers.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another dose of excitement, Dubai promises an unforgettable Christmas holiday. Here are the top 10 things you must do to soak up every bit of Christmas joy in this vibrant city.
Celebrate Christmas at Ski Dubai
Who would expect snow in the middle of the desert? But what’s impossible in Dubai? Ski Dubai makes it possible.
This indoor winter wonderland, located in the Mall of the Emirates, gives you the chance to experience a frosty Christmas, complete with penguins and Christmas trees, while the sun blazes outside.
You can ski, snowboard, or simply enjoy a cozy hot chocolate while admiring the snowy view.
- Visit Santa’s grotto for a unique Christmas experience.
- Enjoy penguin encounters with King and Gentoo penguins.
- Try the Snow Bullet, a thrilling 16-meter-high zip line across the snowy park.
- Perfect for families looking to combine fun and wintery charm.
Why it’s special: Skiing in the desert isn’t just a novelty; it’s a full winter experience complete with twinkling Christmas lights and festive decor. It’s the best of both worlds—celebrate Christmas without the cold wind biting at your face!
Stroll Through the Dubai Miracle Garden
When Christmas is in full swing, Dubai Miracle Garden transforms into a floral paradise filled with festive magic. The garden bursts with colors, featuring elaborate floral designs, Christmas trees, and festive sculptures.
It’s the largest natural flower garden in the world, and during the holiday season, it becomes a wonderland for all ages.
- Explore the Disney-themed floral displays.
- Take Instagram-worthy photos under the heart-shaped flower arches.
- Witness seasonal flower sculptures lit up with Christmas lights.
- Stroll through tunnels made of thousands of flowers.
Why it’s special: This garden showcases Dubai’s flair for extraordinary displays, blending the natural beauty of flowers with the enchantment of Christmas. The festive floral designs are both breathtaking and one-of-a-kind.
Indulge in a Festive Feast at Burj Al Arab
Christmas in Dubai isn’t complete without indulging in a luxury meal at the iconic Burj Al Arab. This sail-shaped hotel offers an extraordinary culinary experience during the festive season.
Decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and festive ornaments, it provides the ultimate backdrop for a glamorous Christmas celebration.
- Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner in one of the world’s most luxurious hotels.
- Choose from Michelin-starred restaurants offering festive menus.
- Sip on signature holiday cocktails while admiring panoramic views of the city.
- Experience impeccable service that will make your meal unforgettable.
Why it’s special: Dining at Burj Al Arab is an unforgettable experience on its own. Add Christmas decor, festive menus, and the luxurious ambiance, and you have a recipe for a Christmas meal unlike any other.
Explore Global Village: A Christmas Around the World
Global Village is a unique fusion of cultures, offering a festive Christmas experience that spans the globe. Each pavilion represents a different country, showcasing their holiday traditions, foods, and goods. Walk through, taste, and shop for Christmas gifts from different corners of the world—all in one night.
- Shop for Christmas ornaments, crafts, and foods from over 90 countries.
- Enjoy live festive performances with dancers and carolers from different cultures.
- Take in the dazzling lights and Christmas decorations that fill the park.
- Savor Christmas treats from different cultures—Gingerbread, Stollen, and more!
Why it’s special: Global Village offers a culturally rich Christmas experience. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled the world, experiencing different holiday traditions without leaving Dubai.
Admire the Festive Light Show at Burj Khalifa
What’s Christmas without some spectacular lights? The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, hosts a magical light show every evening during the festive season. Watch as the tower transforms into a canvas of lights, displaying intricate Christmas-themed patterns that dazzle the eye.
- Catch the synchronized light and music show projected onto the tower.
- Marvel at the giant Christmas tree in Burj Khalifa’s plaza.
- Wander through the nearby Dubai Fountain, which dances to Christmas carols.
- Relax at a nearby cafe to enjoy the lights from a cozy spot.
Why it’s special: The Burj Khalifa light show is a jaw-dropping spectacle that blends festive cheer with cutting-edge technology. It’s a surreal sight to see Christmas lights adorning the world’s tallest skyscraper.
Go on a Christmas Desert Safari
Swap the winter chill for the warmth of a desert safari! Spend Christmas Day driving through sand dunes, riding camels, and enjoying a traditional Arabian barbecue under the stars. Some desert safari companies even offer special Christmas-themed packages with holiday entertainment and festive decor.
- Sandboard down the dunes for an exhilarating adventure.
- Ride camels and feel like you’re on a journey through the Arabian desert.
- Enjoy a Christmas barbecue feast with local delicacies.
- Watch traditional belly dancers perform with a festive twist.
Why it’s special: Celebrating Christmas in the desert is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The blend of Dubai’s heritage, Christmas decor, and the serene desert landscape creates a unique celebration under the stars.
Shop for Holiday Gifts at Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is more than just a shopping center—it’s a Christmas haven during the holiday season. With over 1,200 shops, this mall is the ultimate destination for Christmas shopping. The entire mall is adorned with festive lights, Christmas trees, and even an ice skating rink that hosts holiday shows.
- Shop for luxury brands and unique souvenirs for your loved ones.
- Visit the dedicated Christmas Village inside the mall.
- Take a spin on the ice at the festive skating rink.
- Watch the mall’s Fountain Show, which dances to Christmas tunes.
Why it’s special: Dubai Mall offers endless options for Christmas gifts, from high-end brands to quirky local finds. The festive ambiance makes it much more than just a shopping trip—it’s a holiday experience in itself.
Attend a Christmas Day Brunch
Dubai is famous for its extravagant brunches, and Christmas is no exception. From luxury hotels to beach clubs, Dubai’s Christmas brunches are lavish affairs featuring everything from roasted turkey to international cuisines. These brunches are perfect for celebrating with family or friends, offering festive food, live entertainment, and holiday vibes.
- Feast on a variety of Christmas dishes, from roast turkey to seafood platters.
- Sip on festive beverages like mulled wine and holiday-themed cocktails.
- Enjoy live performances of Christmas carols and holiday music.
- Relax with stunning views, whether it’s overlooking the beach or the skyline.
Why it’s special: Christmas brunches in Dubai are more than just meals; they’re events filled with joy, music, and incredible food. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere with loved ones.
Take a Dhow Cruise Along Dubai Marina
A Christmas dhow cruise offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Glide along the sparkling waters of Dubai Marina, with the skyline illuminated by Christmas lights. These traditional wooden boats are decorated with festive themes, creating a cozy and romantic setting for a holiday dinner or a simple sightseeing tour.
- Enjoy a buffet dinner with international and festive cuisines.
- Sail past Dubai’s illuminated skyscrapers and Christmas decorations.
- Relax with soft Christmas tunes playing in the background.
- Take in views of famous landmarks like the Atlantis and Burj Al Arab.
Why it’s special: A dhow cruise during Christmas is both tranquil and magical. The combination of the city’s lights, festive decor, and the calm of the water creates a serene yet festive experience.
Watch a Christmas Show at the Dubai Opera
Dubai Opera is the city’s premier performing arts venue, and during the holiday season, it comes alive with Christmas performances. From classical ballet performances like The Nutcracker to heartwarming holiday concerts, this is the place to immerse yourself in Christmas culture.
- Watch Christmas-themed performances, from ballets to live concerts.
- Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the grand Dubai Opera House.
- Marvel at the architectural beauty of the venue, which mimics a dhow.
- Experience live carolers filling the air with holiday spirit.
Why it’s special: Dubai Opera’s Christmas shows blend world-class performances with holiday magic, offering a cultural Christmas experience that’s both elegant and heartwarming.
Have a Memorable Christmas Holiday in Dubai
Christmas in Dubai offers an array of unforgettable experiences, from skiing in the desert to watching festive light shows on the tallest building in the world.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, luxury, or cultural experiences, this city has something for everyone. Dubai may not have snow or cold weather, but it sure knows how to bring the Christmas spirit to life in its own unique and dazzling way. So pack your bags, and prepare for a Christmas like no other!
