It’s that time of year again when the air is starting to fill with festive excitement because Christmas is around the corner! If you happen to be in Dubai this festive season, you’re in for a delightful surprise.
The city is all set to sparkle with Christmas markets that rival some of the best in Europe. So, let’s take a tour of these magical Christmas markets in Dubai that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
Christmas Markets In Dubai
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
Imagine strolling through a winter wonderland, surrounded by the iconic architecture of Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah, and you’ll find yourself at the heart of the Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market. This market, running from December 15th, 2023 to January 7th, 2024, is a festive extravaganza that is entirely free to enter.
Spanning an impressive 1750 square meters, this market competes with Europe’s famous Christmas markets. The market’s food stalls offer a delightful range of seasonal treats and international flavors, including steaming cups of hot chocolate and mulled wine. It’s pure festive bliss for your taste buds.
For those seeking the perfect holiday gifts, the market’s gift stalls are a treasure trove of unique finds, artisanal goods, and one-of-a-kind crafts. And for families, there’s no shortage of activities. Kids can decorate gingerbread houses and even take an enchanting train ride to the North Pole, where a surprise visit from Santa Claus might await.
But the true showstopper is the towering 36-foot Christmas tree, lavishly adorned with festive decorations. It’s a symbol of the season’s magic and the perfect spot for holiday photos.
Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Jumeirah Emirates Towers is about to transform into a winter wonderland from December 14, 2023, to January 4, 2024, with the city’s latest Christmas Market called The Winter District Christma. This market promises to be the ultimate destination to soak in the festive spirit.
Imagine a colossal Christmas tree, dazzling lights, whimsical carousel rides, and a giant snowman towering over the scene. It’s a scene straight out of a holiday postcard.
Of course, no Christmas market would be complete without delicious seasonal treats, and Winter District will not disappoint. From hot cocoa to sizzling sausages, you’ll find all your favorite festive foods.
Winter Fest at Expo City
Expo City’s Winter Fest is back with a bang from December 8th, 2023, to January 7th, 2024. Last year’s Winter Fest was a massive success, and this year promises to be even bigger and better, best of all, it’s absolutely free!
Picture yourself strolling through a twinkling forest of lights, standing in awe beneath a towering Christmas tree adorned with enchanting decorations, and capturing the perfect Instagram-worthy moment with your loved ones. It’s all here!
Activities include gingerbread house workshops, Santa-themed ziplines and rides, and, of course, a visit from Santa himself. There’s also an array of Christmas-themed food to enjoy, along with live performances and entertainment to keep the whole family entertained.
Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace Dubai
Habtoor Palace Dubai welcomes the festive season with the grand return of its Winter Garden in November. This elegant garden features pop-up restaurants, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, fun attractions, and more. Tickets cost AED 25 per person, and in return, you receive a food and beverage voucher for the same amount to use at the food stalls inside the garden.
Dog-Friendly Christmas Market at Jumeirah Golf Estates
Head to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Golf & Country Club on December 16, 2023, where they’re rolling out the red carpet for your four-legged friends at the Dog-Friendly Christmas Festival. Best of all, it’s a free event open to everyone!
Shop for a charming array of gifts and goodies for both you and your pets. Enjoy free group training sessions, and dog classes with prizes, indulge in delicious seasonal treats for both humans and their furry companions, dance to live music, meet Santa, and don’t miss the festive dog show where your canine companion can strut their stuff in Christmas costumes.
Yas Winter Fest in Abu Dhabi
Venture to Abu Dhabi for the Yas Winter Fest, a five-day winter celebration offering festive fun for all ages. Revel in the snow park, daily tree-lighting ceremonies, and nightly fireworks displays. Experience the thrill of carnival rides, snowball fights, and snow slides, while the main stage hosts non-stop entertainment, including live shows, sing-alongs, magicians, and Christmas choirs.
Children can enjoy the mega kids’ zone and Santa’s Workshop, while adults indulge in artisan market shopping and classic winter treats. Keep an eye out for surprises, including Santa sightings, artificial snowfall, and the chance to write and post a letter to Santa. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Yas Winter Fest is the place to fulfill your winter wishes.
Looking for more places to celebrate Christmas in Dubai? Check out our full guide!
