Sunshine and Sparkle
When exploring Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai, you'll find a festive season like no other. It's a place where you can ski on real snow in the morning and have a sant-clad barbecue on the beach by the afternoon. It's diverse, luxurious, and family-friendly.
This 3-day itinerary focuses on the most iconic Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai. We've selected spots that offer everything from traditional European-style markets to unique Middle Eastern festive twists.
A Global Festive Melting Pot
The culture of Christmas in Dubai is a reflection of the city's status as a global crossroads. While it's an Islamic country, the spirit of tolerance and celebration means that Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai are among the most decorated and festive in the world.
Over the last two decades, the city has actively invested in becoming one of the premier Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai for international tourists. Malls, hotels, and public spaces compete to host the largest trees and the most elaborate light shows.
By choosing Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai, you're experiencing a modern, high-tech version of the holidays that still honors the core values of generosity and community, all under the beautiful winter sun of the Arabian Peninsula.
Desert Frost and Festive Gold
Discover the ultimate Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai with our local expert guide.
Day 1: Madinat Jumeirah: The Festive Souk
Traditional Arabian architecture met with winter wonder.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
The Most Scenic Market
A 1,750 square meter market set on the waterways of the Madinat, complete with an enormous tree and snow machines.
Why You Must Visit:
The gold standard for Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai. It offers abra rides with Santa and a dedicated snowball fight zone for kids.
3:00 PM - Late
Taxi / Metro (Mall of Emirates)
3 hours
How to Reach:
Take a taxi directly to Madinat Jumeirah or take the Metro to Mall of the Emirates and a short taxi from there.
Insider Tip:
The market is free entry but gets very busy after 6:00 PM; arrive late afternoon to enjoy the sunset view of the Burj Al Arab.
Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace
European Charm in the Desert
An enchanting garden filled with pop-up food stalls, festive music, and a massive Christmas tree.
Why You Must Visit:
One of the most 'Instagrammable' Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai. The food selection here is incredible, featuring top local brands.
4:00 PM - Midnight
Taxi
2 hours
How to Reach:
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road at the Al Habtoor City complex.
Insider Tip:
The 'Hot Chocolate' here is famous—look for the stalls near the main stage for the best varieties.
Day 1 Dining: Al Fresco Festive
Enjoy the perfect weather with outdoor dining.
The Meat Co.
Great steaks with a view of the Madinat waterways.
Pai Thai
Arrive via a traditional abra boat for a truly unique Dubai meal.
Day 2: Ski Dubai & Expo City: Frost and Future
Sub-zero fun followed by a sustainable Christmas.
Ski Dubai
Real Snow in the Desert
The world's largest indoor ski slope, which hosts a massive Santa's Grotto and festive events every year.
Why You Must Visit:
Essential for those who miss the cold in Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai. You can meet real penguins here too!
10:00 AM - Midnight
Metro (Mall of Emirates)
4 hours
How to Reach:
Directly located inside the Mall of the Emirates, reachable by Metro Red Line.
Insider Tip:
Book the 'Snow Plus' pass to include the mountain thriller ride and the chairlift for the best views of the indoor snow.
Winter City at Expo City Dubai
Sustainability and Spirit
The former Expo 2020 site transforms into a massive winter wonderland with sustainable initiatives.
Why You Must Visit:
The scale is unmatched even among other Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai. The projection show on Al Wasl Plaza is breathtaking.
3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Metro (Expo 2020)
3 hours
How to Reach:
Take the Metro Red Line all the way to the Expo 2020 station.
Insider Tip:
Don't miss the 'Santa’s Workshop' where kids can make eco-friendly ornaments.
Day 2 Dining: Global Flavors
From Alpine fondue to futuristic snacks.
Après
Alpine-themed restaurant overlooking the ski slopes.
The Daily at Rove Cafe
Great value family meals in the heart of Expo City.
Day 3: Global Village: Christmas Around the World
A cultural extravaganza with a festive touch.
Global Village Dubai
The World's Best Festive Fair
A massive seasonal theme park featuring pavilions from over 80 different cultures.
Why You Must Visit:
One of the most vibrant Christmas Holiday Location in Dubai. The festive decorations in the European pavilions are particularly impressive.
4:00 PM - Midnight
Bus / Taxi
5 hours
How to Reach:
Take a taxi or any of the RTA buses (102, 103, 104, 106) from major Metro stations.
Insider Tip:
Visit the UAE pavilion for locally inspired gifts, and then head to the 'Road of Asia' for incredible festive street food.
Day 3 Dining: Street Food Feast
Taste the world in one night.
Al Hafeet
Great Emirati snacks and tea.
The Floating Market
Incredible Asian seafood and festive snacks.