The most festive activities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for Christmas 2023
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 10 to 25 December. AED 150 per person.
GO: Visit http://skidxb.com for reservations and more information.
Christmas Baking Class: The H Dubai
The skilled team of chefs at Eat & Meat in The H Dubai will lead baking classes designed to teach children the art of creating festive desserts, ranging from simple Christmas cookies to magnificent gingerbread houses. While the kids immerse themselves in the baking sessions, parents can enjoy moments of relaxation in the Gallery Lobby lounge or find ultimate tranquillity at the Mandara Spa. Available daily from 11 to 15 December, from 10am to 11:30am. AED 109 per individual class or AED 499 for five classes and a customised chef jacket.
GO: Visit www.hhoteldubai.com/ for reservations and more information.
Gingerbread Workshop: Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort
Families are invited to come together and create festive memories by decorating quaint gingerbread houses, adorning them with frosting, gumdrops, sprinkles and other festive treats. Devour your creation at home or use it as a festive centrepiece. Available daily, from 12 to 23 December, from 2pm to 4pm. AED 95 per person (inclusive of mince pies and cookies)
GO: Visit www.babalshams.com for reservations and more information.
Gingerbread Workshop: Address Beach Resort
The entire family is invited to embrace their creative spirit as The Restaurant hosts a Gingerbread House Making session, bringing the enchantment of the holiday season to life. It’s the perfect holiday activity where kids can explore their architectural skills while relishing a delightful sweet treat. Available on 22, 23, 25 and 26 December, from 1pm to 5pm. AED 250 per gingerbread house set.
GO: Email dineatbeachresort@addresshotels.com for reservations and more information.
Holiday Craft Workshop: The H Dubai
Unleash your creativity this Christmas and participate in a tree decorating workshop at The H Dubai. This engaging session will provide all the necessary equipment and guidance. As part of the festive celebration, attendees will receive an exclusive invitation to the grand Christmas tree-lighting event in the lobby. Tuesday, 5 December from 7pm to 10pm. AED 250 per person
GO: Visit www.hhoteldubai.com/festiveoffers for reservations 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 15 December to 7 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 31 December, from 10am to 10pm. AED 295 per person.
GO: Visit http://snowabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Slava’s SNOWSHOW: Dubai Opera
Indulge in out-of-this-world experience as Slava’s SNOWSHOW hits Dubai for the first time. This enchanting winter-themed show is a treat for both young and old, whisking you away to a world of pure imagination and nostalgia at Dubai Opera. Available from 8 to 10 December. Tickets from AED 225 per person.
GO: Visit www.dubaiopera.com 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 15 to 17 December. Tickets from AED 300 per person.
GO: Visit www.dubaiopera.com for more information.
Watch a Christmas movie: JLT Park
JLT’s Cinema Under the Stars has returned with a lineup of festive movies this winter. Occurring every Saturday, guests can grab their blankets and head down to JLT Park in Cluster Q to watch The Grinch Who Stole Christmas on 16 December and Home Alone on 23 December. Movies start at 7:30pm.
GO: Visit https://jlt.ae for reservations and more information.
Winter District: Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Jumeirah Emirates Towers will present its inaugural Winter District against the stunning backdrop of the Museum of the Future. Nestled on the hotel’s Plaza Terrace, visitors can immerse themselves in various Festive delights, including gourmet food and beverage choices, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal gifts from Lady Mauve and FAAMS. 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 December to 4 January.
GO: Follow @winter.district on Instagram 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 dining experiences from Casa Pons, Gelato Divino, Mama Cita and Sauce, while LabLicious will offer kids activities, including candle making, perfume making and soap making. Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection will reveal its festive illuminations and decorations for the UAE National Day Holiday, including the grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the Winter Garden. Available from 1 November to 31 January.
GO: Follow @wintergardendubai on Instagram for more information.
