Immerse yourself in the festive spirit and spread seasonal cheer with these fantastic tree-lighting ceremonies.
The Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a cherished tradition that ushers in the festive season. As the sun sets, families and communities gather in anticipation, uniting under the glow of twinkling lights. The ceremony, often accompanied by carols and merriment, marks the symbolic illumination of a towering evergreen, adorned with ornaments and gleaming decorations. The moment the switch is flipped, the tree comes alive in a dazzling display of colours. This enchanting event not only signifies the beginning of the holiday season but also fosters a sense of togetherness and goodwill. Here are the tree lighting ceremonies you don’t want to miss this Christmas.
Dubai
Thursday 5 December: Al Habtoor Polo Resort
Kick off the holiday season with the Festive Tree Lighting at Andalucia. Enjoy a live performance by the Nord Anglia International School Choir, followed by cookie decorating for kids and a visit from Santa. Watch as the tree lights up, marking the start of a magical season. Available on Thursday, 5 December from 6pm.
GO: Email festive@habtoorpoloresort.com for reservations and more information.
Thursday 5 December: Meliá Desert Palm
Start the festivities early with the lighting of Meliá Desert Palm’s twinkling Christmas tree on the Portico Terrace. Here, you can delight in the aroma of a complimentary mulled wine station, available in alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. The evening also features complimentary ginger cookies, signature Mince Pies, and a curated selection of red wines. It is available on Thursday, 5 December, from 7pm to 8pm.
GO: Email eat.dp@melia.com for reservations and more information.
Friday 6 December: Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai
Embrace the joy of the season as the holiday tree lights up the resort’s lobby. Enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled grape paired with smoked salmon and cream cheese or a slice of traditional stollen while younger guests can sip on hot chocolate. To elevate the festive atmosphere, the Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai choir will perform carols, and a special visitor from the North Pole is expected. Friday, 6 December at 6pm.
GO: Visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com for reservations and more information.
Friday 6 December: Raffles Dubai
Head to Raffles Dubai for the annual tree-lighting ceremony. Witness the enchanting moment as the hotel’s 20-foot Christmas tree comes to life, adorned with a dazzling array of twinkling lights and ornaments. The harmonious melodies of the Raffles Christmas Choir, a selection of festive treats and glasses of mulled grapes will further heighten the festive atmosphere. The magic continues with a special visit from the North Pole, where a cherished guest bearing exciting gifts for the little ones will make an appearance. Friday 6 December from 6pm.
GO: Email dining.dubai@raffles.com for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 11 December: SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences
On the evening of 11 December, experience the magic of the festive light switch-on at SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences. The hotel will illuminate its Sky Lobby on the 71st floor with a dazzling display of lavish decorations and sparkling lights, filling the air with joyful cheer. Available on Wednesday 11 December from 7pm to 9pm.
GO: Email sbar.dubai@slshotels.com for reservations and more information.
Friday 13 December: JA Beach Hotel
Ignite your holiday spirit at the spectacular tree lighting ceremony at Palmito Garden, where you’ll be serenaded by carol singers against a beautiful beach backdrop. Get into the festive mood as the towering tree comes to life with a kaleidoscope of twinkling lights, marking the countdown to the holidays. Enjoy finger foods and house beverages while dancing to a DJ spinning holiday classics. Kids will be thrilled with a magical Gingerbread House Decorating Activity, culminating in a special appearance from Santa himself, adding excitement to the festivities. Available on Friday, 13 December from 6pm to 8pm. AED 150 per person.
GO: Email restaurant.reservation@jaresorts.com for reservations and more information.
Abu Dhabi
Friday 6 December: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
During Abu Dhabi’s most luxurious Christmas Tree Lighting, the majestic Palace Grand Dome will come alive with music, candlelight, and festive spirit. Guests are invited to gather for this enchanting ceremony, enjoying delicious treats and live entertainment beneath the palace’s breathtaking dome. Friday, 6 December from 6pm.
GO: Visit mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Friday 6 December: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Kick off the holiday season with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in the lobby at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl. Enjoy festive canapés, a performance by a Christmas choir, and a special visit from Santa Claus as thousands of twinkling lights bring the tree to life. Friday, 6 December from 6pm.
GO: Email festive.grandhyattabudhabi@hyatt.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 8 December: Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Begin the holiday season with a magical tree-lighting ceremony. Gather in the resort’s stunning lobby for festive treats, warming beverages, and the melodic charm of a Christmas choir. Feel the holiday spirit as kids enjoy creamy hot chocolate and holiday goodies, all while the gentle sound of Christmas bells fills the air. Available on Sunday 8 December at 6pm.
GO: Visit www.rixos.com for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 10 December: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Rock around the Christmas tree with a delightful illumination ceremony at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi. Expect Christmas carols in the hotel’s Lobby Lounge, season-inspired refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. Available on Tuesday, 10 December from 6pm.
GO: Call 02 509 8555 for reservations and more information.
