These are the UAE’s favourite Christmas markets and festive workshops, plus the best places to see Santa and indulge in festive activities in Dubai.
The festive season is a time for joy, peace, and love. It is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and to give back to those in need. The holiday season is full of traditions, including Christmas markets and festive workshops. Read on for team FACT’s top festive activities in Dubai this Christmas.
Breakfast with Santa Claus: Ski Dubai
Are you seeking a cheerful breakfast location? Delight in a joyous breakfast with Santa at North 28 inside Ski Dubai. Revel in festive delicacies like snowman pancakes and the daily serving of signature hot chocolate at 8am. This package is ideal for families with toddlers under two years old and comprises one breakfast dish and one beverage. Available from 1 to 25 December. AED 325 per person.
GO: Visit http://skidxb.com for reservations and more information.
Elf The Musical: Etihad Arena
Do you know where the lines “there’s room for everyone on the nice list”, and “I just like to smile, smiling’s my favourite” are from? Well, if you answered the film Elf, then you’re correct. Plus, you’ll be pleased to hear that Elf The Musical is singing and dancing its way to Dubai. During the festive season, you can catch Elf The Musical at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi Taking place from 14 to 15 December, it promises to be a fun-filled 80-minute show for all the family.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Madinat Jumeirah has been transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland. Visitors can expect a 36-foot Christmas tree, family-friendly activities and traditional food stalls selling holiday favourites. The festive feels continue with gingerbread house decorating, a North Pole Train the opportunity to take a scenic abra ride with Santa along the winding waterways. Available daily from 6 December to 12 January.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Meet Santa Claus: Snow Abu Dhabi
Santa Claus is making his grand appearance at Snow Abu Dhabi this December. Delve into the Winter Wonderland and enjoy a special meet-and-greet with Santa, a surprise gift from his elves, a signature hot chocolate, a printed photo and access to the Snow Park. This experience grants unlimited use of over 20 Enchanted Forest-themed rides. Available from 1 to 25 December, from 10am to 10pm. AED 329 per person.
GO: Visit http://snowabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
The Grinch: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Marking its UAE debut, the Dr. Seuss classic will take centre stage at the Zabeel Theatre in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray from 20 to 24 December. The musical adaptation brings the magic of the Grinch’s story to life with songs like You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch and Welcome Christmas. Narrated by Max the Dog, you can follow the Grinch as he plots to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville. Tickets for the UAE premiere of How The Grinch Stole Christmas are available now via Platinumlist, with prices starting at AED 200 per person.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
The Nutcracker: Dubai Opera
You have probably watched The Nutcracker plenty of times and now’s your chance again. The Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of Astana from Kazakhstan is inviting you to relive the magic at the Dubai Opera. So snag your tickets now and follow the journey of Clara as her nutcracker comes alive this Christmas. Available from 19 to 22 December. Tickets from AED 300 per person.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Winter District: Dubai Media City
Dubai Media City Amphitheatre will present its Dubai Marina skyline. Nestled on the grass, visitors can immerse themselves in various Festive delights, including gourmet food and beverage choices, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal gifts Adorned with enchanting decorations and a forest of Christmas trees, the venue hosts a spectrum of activities, including carnival games, a carousel, snowball fight areas and live music. Available daily, from 14 to 22 December.
GO: Visit www.winterdistrict.com for more information.
Winter Garden: Al Habtoor City
Al Habtoor City’s Winter Garden is back for a new season, featuring more street food kiosks, live entertainment, and enjoyable children’s activities than before. Experience a selection of street food stalls selling everything from refreshing fruit juices and ice slushies to a variety of other foods. Plus, there are kids’ activities, including carnival skill games, a go-kart space, soft play, and a trampoline. Elsewhere, Panda Pets Trading’s interactive mini zoo will introduce children to emus, goats, reptiles, and more. Available from 1 November to 31 January.
GO: Follow @wintergardendubai on Instagram for more information.
Yas Winter Fest: Yas Island
Prepare to wrap yourselves in festive cheer as Yas Winter Fest makes its return to the capital. Taking place at the Yas Island Gateway Park South from 13 to 22 December, Yas Winter Fest promises a winter wonderland for all ages. Frolic in an artificial Snow Zone with exhilarating snow-inspired activities, or make your way over to the North Pole for a chance to write and post a letter to Santa. You can also get some photos for the gram as you explore Santa’s workshop, where ornament decorating, crafts, and gingerbread decorating are in full swing.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
