Dubai never holds back when it comes to Christmas, and this year the city is filled with magical markets, festive villages, winter pop-ups, and cozy grotto experiences. Whether you’re planning a family outing, searching for festive food stalls, or just looking for Christmas places in Dubai to soak up the holiday mood, this guide collects the best Christmas markets and winter experiences across the city.
For even more festive inspiration, check out our Christmas in Dubai Guide for concerts, events, family activities, dining, and everything happening this season.
Let’s dive into the best Christmas markets in Dubai 2025 and all the festive spots worth visiting this season.
Christmas Markets in Dubai 2025
Expo City Festive Celebrations
Al Wasl Season at Expo City Dubai turns the iconic Al Wasl Plaza into a lively hub of celebrations throughout the cooler months. The season brings together festive highlights like Winter City, where the area transforms into a charming winter wonderland, and Carols by Candlelight under the glowing dome. With a full season pass that gives access to the entire experience, Al Wasl Season is an easy pick for anyone exploring festive markets and events in Dubai, the kind you plan a casual visit to and end up staying longer than expected.
Wafi City Wonderland
From December 6 to 24, Wafi City turns into a festive dreamland overflowing with colour, lights, and holiday magic. The atrium is transformed into a whimsical Christmas setting, complete with enchanting décor and interactive moments that make you feel like you’ve stepped inside a winter story.
Families can enjoy live festive shows, hands-on seasonal activities, and charming installations created just for the holidays. One of the biggest highlights is the Santa’s Grotto experience, where little ones can meet Santa and even ride in his “magical lift”, a cute, memorable moment they’ll talk about all season long.
Wafi City’s Wonderland is one of Dubai’s most heartwarming places to celebrate Christmas, and one of the best Christmas markets in Dubai for families. See Wafi City Christmas events.
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
If you asked me to point to a single place that captures the essence of “Christmas in Dubai,” I’d say Madinat Jumeirah’s Christmas Market without hesitation. Picture this: wooden chalets wrapped in fairy lights, a giant Christmas tree overlooking the water, cinnamon-scented treats, festive workshops, and the sound of carols drifting across the abra-filled canals. It’s atmospheric, nostalgic, and genuinely feels like a holiday postcard brought to life.
Go at sunset, the lights kick in, the music gets louder, and the whole place becomes pure magic, easily one of the best Christmas markets in Dubai 2025 and one of the best places to visit in Dubai during Christmas.
Al Ghurair Festive Celebrations
Al Ghurair Centre is embracing the holiday spirit with a warm and joyful festive setup running from 16 to 25 December. The mall comes alive with colourful decorations, twinkling lights, and plenty of cheerful moments that make it a fun stop for families during the season.
Kids can look forward to meeting Santa and his friendly elves, posing for festive photos, and enjoying lighthearted activities scattered throughout the centre. Whether you’re browsing the shops, grabbing a bite, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the whole space feels bright, lively, and full of seasonal charm. It’s an easy, feel-good outing if you’re looking for Christmas activities for kids in Dubai or simple Christmas things to do in Dubai.
The Grotto Magical Winter Experience
The Grotto Dubai returns this season with another round of holiday enchantment that turns the mall into a dreamy winter escape. From festive décor and cosy lighting to cheerful installations that feel straight out of a storybook, it’s designed to spark that holiday feeling the moment you step in.
Visitors can explore seasonal displays, capture joyful photos with loved ones, and soak in the warm, festive atmosphere while wandering through the space. Whether you’re here for a festive snap, a relaxed stroll, or just to enjoy the winter vibes, The Grotto offers a magical change of pace in the heart of the city, perfect for making Christmas memories in Dubai.
Winter District Dubai
Winter District returns to Dubai for 2025 with a brand-new location at Emirates Towers, bringing an immersive seasonal experience to the city. Think festive stalls, twinkling lights, and an atmosphere that feels like a mini winter village, right in the heart of Dubai.
As you wander through the space, you’ll find seasonal eats and treats, cheerful décor, and plenty of spots made for capturing photos with friends and family. Between the lively ambience, live entertainment, and holiday-themed areas to explore, Winter District is a standout stop if you’re looking to soak up that December magic, and one of the top Christmas events in Dubai.
Christmas Tree Lighting Events in Dubai 2025
One of the most charming parts of the festive season is watching a giant Christmas tree burst into light. Throughout Dubai, several destinations host their own tree lighting ceremonies, complete with carols, family activities, festive treats, and that magical countdown moment. These events make for lovely things to do in Dubai during Christmas, especially if you’re looking for something cosy, atmospheric, and family-friendly.
For all timings, locations, and full details, check our complete Christmas Tree Lighting guide on the blog.
Where to Meet Santa in Dubai 2025
Meeting Santa is one of the sweetest Christmas activities in Dubai, and there are plenty of festive spots where kids can say hello, take photos, and enjoy a little holiday magic. These meet-and-greet moments are a great addition to your things to do in Dubai during Christmas list, especially for families looking to make the season extra special.
You can read about where to meet Santa in Dubai, along with all the locations and timings, in our dedicated blog.
