Brighten up your Christmas with these twinkling tree lighting ceremonies
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit and spread seasonal cheer with these fantastic tree lighting ceremonies across the Emirates.
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 Chritmas.
Dubai
1 December: Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the holiday season at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection’s tree lighting ceremony. Gather your loved ones and join the hotel for an event brimming with seasonal joy and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Friday 1 December, from 6pm.
GO: Email hgrs.fbreservation@habtoorhospitality.com for reservations and more information.
5 December: Taj Jumeirah Lake Towers
There’s no better way to commence the holiday season than with a festive tree lighting ceremony. This moment officially marks the beginning of Taj JLT’s festive season, and guests are invited to enjoy complimentary mulled wine or eggnog, and a delightful assortment of festive treats. There will also be a Christmas choir and a visit from Santa Claus. Tuesday 5 December 5th, from 6:30pm.
GO: Email hostesses.jltdubai@tajhotels.com for reservations and more information.
6 December: Meliá Desert Palm
Enjoy the delightful aroma of a homemade mulled grape as you witness the festive illuminations at Dubai’s chic equestrian resort. Savour the flavours of the season with complimentary ginger cookies and minced pies whilst making cheerful memories with your loved ones. Wednesday 6 December, from 7pm to 8pm.
GO: Email eat.dp@melia.com or call 04 602 9323 for reservations and more information.
6 December: Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites
Experience an enchanting and heartwarming evening as Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites welcomes the arrival of the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Set in the hotel’s main lobby, guests can immerse themselves in the soothing melodies of a live piano, cello, and violin ensemble while delighting in cocktails and sparkling beverages. To elevate the magic, Santa Claus will make a surprise appearance, carrying a sack filled with special gifts. Wednesday, 6 December, from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.
GO: Email dine.dubai@rixos.com or call 04 457 5454 for reservations and more information.
6 December: Sheraton Mall of the Emirates
Celebrate the holiday season by participating in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Sheraton Mall of the Emirates. Experience the enchantment as Elizabeth Arden, a premium global beauty brand, adorns the tree with captivating decorations. Bring the little ones to witness the festive tree illuminated by twinkling lights while the melodies of carol singers fill the air with joy. Wednesday 6 December, from 6pm to 7pm.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
7 December: Paramount Hotel Midtown
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at Paramount Hotel Midtown and indulge in festive canapés and steaming hot chocolate, all served with a side of cheer. For an authentic Christmas experience, relish a glass of non-alcoholic mulled wine and let the enchanting melodies of a Christmas choir transport you to a realm of holiday wonder. Thursday 7 December, from 7pm.
GO: Email fbadmin.midtown@paramounthotelsdubai.com for reservations and more information.
7 December: Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens
Gather on the newly-renovated terrace of LAH LAH for a festive Christmas tree lighting soirée. Enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, and mulled grape while anticipating the arrival of Santa. Thursday 7 December, from 6pm.
GO: Call 04 519 1111 for reservations and more information.
8 December: Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel
Experience a magical festive tree lighting ceremony aboard the QE2 this winter. The evening will include Christmas carols and a surprise visit from Santa Claus. Friday 8 December, from 5:30pm. AED 50 (includes a glass of mulled wine or mint hot chocolate and a festive Marks & Spencer goodie bag) and AED 195 (tree lighting ceremony and a buffet dinner at Lido restaurant).
GO: Email dining.qe2@accor.com for reservations and more information.
8 December: Raffles Dubai
Head to Raffles Dubai in Wafi 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 8 December, from 6pm.
GO: Email dining.dubai@raffles.com or call 04 324 8888 for reservations and more information.
8 December: W Dubai – The Palm
Experience the festive enchantment at W Lounge’s tree lighting ceremony. Step into a winter wonderland as you’re welcomed by W’s gingerbread logo adorned with delightful holiday ornaments. The evening will feature dynamic dancers, festive illuminations and a visit from Santa Claus and his troupe of elves. Friday, 8 December, from 7pm to 8:30pm.
GO: Email wpalmdining@whotelsworldwide.com for reservations and more information.
9 December: Palazzo Versace Dubai
Nestled in the heart of this fashionable hotel, the lavish Mosaico Lobby Lounge provides sweeping vistas of Dubai Creek and the main pool. Adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows and opulent interiors, it stands as the ideal spot to witness the glimmer of Christmas lights during the hotel’s annual illumination. Saturday 9 December, from 6pm to 8pm. AED 150 (minimum spend per person).
GO: Email reservations@palazzoversace.ae or call 04 556 8805 for reservations and more information.
10 December: Jumeirah Golf Estates
Experience the enchantment of the festive season at Jumeirah Golf Estates’ annual tree lighting ceremony. Gather with friends and family on the Earth Terrace as the magnificent tree comes to life. Immerse yourself in the magic of the moment with Christmas carols, live entertainment, and a special visit from Santa Claus and his elves. Sunday 10 December, from 5pm to 8pm. AED 120 (soft beverages and canapés), AED 280 (house beverages and canapés) and AED 80 (children aged four to 12 years).
GO: Visit www.dubaigolf.com for reservations and more information.
14 December: SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences
Prepare for an enchanting evening with the sky-high festive light switch-on at SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences. Revel in the splendour as the hotel illuminates the season with a spectacular display of decadent decorations and sparkling lights. Thursday 14 December, from 7pm to 9pm.
GO: Visit slshotels.com for more information.
Abu Dhabi
7 December: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi will present its yearly tree-lighting ceremony, accompanied by guest carolers and a delightful visit from Santa Claus. The talented singers will enchant the audience with a medley of traditional and contemporary Christmas tunes, creating a festive atmosphere for all. Expect festive treats and the grand opening of the hotel’s annual festive market. Thursday 7 December, from 6pm.
GO: Visit www.dusit.com for reservations and more information.
8 December: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Head to the grand dome inside Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Guests are invited to gather and witness the Palace lighting up from within while enjoying seasonal treats from the FACT Award-winning Episodes and carols performed by the children’s choir. Friday 8 December, from 6pm.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
8 December: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl
Be part of a heartwarming ceremony with the illumination of the Christmas tree in the Grand Lobby of Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl. The event will feature the melodic voices of the Abu Dhabi Carolers and a selection of traditional festive treats. Friday 8 December, from 6pm.
GO: Email festive.grandhyattabudhabi@hyatt.com for reservations and more information.
8 December: Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Celebrate the onset of the festive season with Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island’s enchanting tree lighting ceremony. Immerse yourself in a Christmas wonderland with tempting holiday treats and festive beverages. The lush surroundings will resonate with the harmonious melodies of a Christmas choir, providing a delightful backdrop to our joyous celebration. Friday, 8 December, from 6pm,
GO: Call 02 492 2222 for reservations and more information.
8 December: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
As melodious carols fill the air, let the enchantment of Christmas unfold at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi. Head to the Lobby Lounge for a traditional Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, complemented by festive refreshments and a special visit from Santa Claus. Friday 8 December, from 7:30pm.
GO: Email restaurantreservations.slad@shangri-la.com for reservations and more information.
8 December: Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
Prepare for an enchanting evening filled with holiday cheer at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony. As the tree illuminates, you’ll be serenaded by the melodious tunes of a choir. Santa Claus will also make a special appearance. Friday 8 December, from 6pm to 7pm.
GO: Email h7507@sofitel.com for reservations and more information.
8 December: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Witness the enchanting spectacle of the Christmas Tree Lighting at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. The magnificent lobby will be aglow with the radiance of a stunning 20-foot Christmas tree adorned with hundreds of exquisite ornaments. A pianist will accompany the event, filling the air with joyful melodies as you come together with your loved ones to celebrate the spirit of the season. Friday 8 December, from 6pm.
GO: Email restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com or call 02 694 4553 for reservations and more information.
8 December: The WB Abu Dhabi
Commence the festive merriment with the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in the lobby of The WB Abu Dhabi. Visitors are invited to join a chorus of Christmas carollers, while children can take photographs with beloved characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. The evening culminates with the sharing of festive treats, ensuring a sweet end to the celebratory event. Friday 8 December, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm.
GO: Email dine.thewbabudhabi@hilton.com or call 02 815 0000 for reservations and more information.
8 December: Yas Plaza Hotels
Save the date for a festive celebration with the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Radisson Blu Yas Island, and Rotana Yas Island. The evening will feature eggnog, glühwein, pass-around snacks, Christmas carollers, special activities for kids, memorable photo opportunities and a visit from Santa. Friday 8 December, from 6pm.
GO: Visit www.yasplazahotels.com for reservations and more information.
