December 16, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: Forget the snow this year the festive magic sparkles brighter under the Arabian sun Dubai transforms into a winter playground unlike any other blending iconic desert luxury with traditional holiday cheer. If you’re looking for the absolute best Things to do in Dubai Christmas this year get ready to dive into a world of dazzling markets gourmet feasts and unforgettable family experiences. We’ve handpicked the top 12 festive activities for your 2025 holiday schedule ensuring you celebrate in true Dubai style
Things to do in Dubai Christmas 2025
Dubai’s acclaimed culinary scene elevates for the holidays offering everything from lavish Christmas Day brunches to elegant themed afternoon teas. Planning your festive dining is one of the most essential Things to do in Dubai Christmas.
1. The Opulent Christmas Day Brunch at Atlantis The Palm
Experience the grandeur of a five-star festive feast with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea for Things to do in Dubai Christmas. This celebrated brunch features over 15 live cooking stations flowing premium bubbly and a dedicated kids’ zone complete with a visit from Santa. This is the city’s most sought after festive table so bookings are absolutely essential and fill up exceptionally fast.
- Cost: Dhs 799 non alcoholic / Dhs 1299 premium package
- Date: Wednesday, December 25, 2025
- Time: 100 PM – 400 PM
- Location: Saffron Atlantis The Palm
2. Gingerbread High Tea at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Indulge in a truly iconic afternoon tea experience elevated with festive flair. Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches freshly baked orange and cranberry scones and miniature gingerbread desserts served in the opulent setting of the Skyview Bar. A live pianist performs classic carols offering a perfect way to spend an afternoon enjoying the Things to do in Dubai Christmas season with class.
- Cost: Dhs 650 per person
- Date: Daily December 1 – December 31
- Time: 300 PM – 500 PM
- Location: Skyview Bar Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah
3. The Turkey Takeaway Masterpiece from The Address Fountain Views
For those who prefer to host at home without the hassle The Address Fountain Views’ culinary team prepares a magnificent 6kg roasted turkey dinner complete with all the traditional trimmings, sage stuffing, rich gravy homemade cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables and a yule log dessert. This stress free option allows you to focus purely on enjoying the holiday. Pre-order is mandatory.
- Cost: Dhs 850 serves 6 8 people
- Date: Pick up available December 23 – 26
- Location: The Address Fountain Views
4. Festive Italian Set Menu at Pierchic
Dine over the water in this stunning location which hosts a special four course Italian festive menu throughout December. The intimate romantic setting combined with seasonal Italian delicacies and unparalleled views of the Burj Al Arab, makes this a top choice for couples looking for unique Things to do in Dubai Christmas.
- Cost: Dhs 595 per person
- Date: Daily December 1 – December 30
- Location: Pierchic Jumeirah Al Qasr
Winter Wonders and Christmas Markets
The city’s famous Christmas markets are arguably the most popular Things to do in Dubai Christmas bringing a magical snowy village feel to the sunny climate.
5. Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
The perennial favourite returns Wander through a fully transformed Souk Madinat Jumeirah featuring a massive Christmas tree the famous Abra ride with Santa and an exciting range of food stalls including roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate. The market features festive activities for all making this one of the essential Things to do in Dubai Christmas for families.
- Cost: Free entry Activity costs vary
- Date: Thursday December 11 – Sunday December 29
- Time: 300 PM – Late Weekdays / 1200 PM – Late Weekends
- Location: Fort Island Madinat Jumeirah
6. Expo City Dubai Winter City Spectacle
Al Wasl Plaza is once again transformed into a mesmerizing Winter City This market offers a unique blend of high tech shows and traditional market stalls Expect daily snowfall carnival rides an artisanal craft market and stunning projections on the Al Wasl dome It’s a truly spectacular display of the Things to do in Dubai Christmas for all ages.
- Cost: Dhs 40 per person includes entry and basic access
- Date: Friday December 5 – Wednesday December 31
- Location: Al Wasl Plaza Expo City Dubai
7. Bavarian Christmas Village at JBR
For a taste of European tradition visit the authentic Bavarian style market at Movenpick JBR. This month long event features wooden chalets selling handmade gifts traditional German sausages Bratwurst pretzels and Glühwein accompanied by live brass band music The laid back atmosphere makes it a perfect evening outing.
- Cost: Free entry
- Date: Saturday December 6 – Sunday January 4
- Time: 400 PM – 100 AM daily
- Location: Movenpick Hotel JBR Terrace
Unique Experiences and Family Fun
Beyond the markets and meals Dubai offers several specialized and unique activities perfect for creating lasting holiday memories. These distinctive experiences define the best Things to do in Dubai Christmas.
8. Santa’s Grotto at Mall of the Emirates MOE
Take your children on an enchanting journey through the Candy Cane Forest and into Santa’s magnificent Grotto located within the New Covent Garden. The theatre area of MOE Children can meet Santa, receive a personalised gift and post their letters at the Merry Mailroom Look for the special “Quiet Hour” sessions designed for children with sensory sensitivities.
- Cost: Dhs 175 per child includes gift Dhs 130 adult chaperone ticket
- Date: December 6 – December 25
- Location: New Covent Garden Theatre Mall of the Emirates
9. Festive Movie Screening at Zero Gravity Beach Club
Watch a classic holiday film like Elf or Love Actually under the stars while lounging on a bean bag on the beach Zero Gravity converts its beach area into an open air cinema offering complimentary popcorn a themed mixed drink and the sound of waves providing the perfect soundtrack .These relaxing Things to do in Dubai Christmas events are a great escape.
- Cost: Dhs 150 redeemable on F&B
- Date: Every Tuesday in December 3 10 17 24
- Time: Doors open 700 PM Movie starts 800 PM
- Location: Zero Gravity Dubai Marina
10. Festive Wreath Making Masterclass at Palazzo Versace
Get crafty and create your own beautiful Christmas wreath to adorn your door . The Palazzo Versace hosts a highly rated workshop complete with fresh seasonal foliage ribbons and decorations. The session is paired with a luxurious High Tea spread combining creativity with indulgence This is a delightful way to explore the hands on Things to do in Dubai Christmas.
- Cost: Dhs 495 per person includes materials and High Tea
- Date: Saturday December 7 and 14
- Time: 230 PM – 430 PM
- Location: Giardino Palazzo Versace
11. Ski Dubai’s Winter Wonderland
While many Things to do in Dubai Christmas focus on the sun Ski Dubai provides the genuine snowy experience .Visit the snow park ride the chairlift and meet the resident penguins all while enjoying the festive decor and perhaps even a real snow fall inside the facility It’s the coldest yet one of the warmest holiday experiences in the city.
- Cost: From Dhs 250 Snow Park Pass
- Date: Daily throughout December
- Location: Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates
12. Christmas Eve Carols by the Creek
Join a traditional carol service hosted by the St Francis of Assisi Church often held outdoors near the Creek or in Jebel Ali. This non denominational event welcomes everyone to join in the singing of classic carols offering a moment of peaceful reflection amidst the city’s festive buzz.
- Cost: Free entry
- Date: Tuesday December 24
- Time: 700 PM
- Location: St Francis of Assisi Church area Jebel Ali
Dubai truly comes alive during the festive season offering a dazzling array of events that cater to every taste and budget Whether you’re sipping mulled grape at a bustling market or enjoying a lavish Christmas brunch the city provides an unforgettable holiday experience . Use this extensive list of Things to do in Dubai Christmas 2025 as your festive roadmap and make the most of the most wonderful time of the year in the UAE.
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