Yule be surprised by what’s in store this year.
Brace yourselves for festive excitement as the UAE’s Christmas markets gear up for the holiday season. From the dazzling lights of Dubai to the snug corners of Abu Dhabi, get ready to be whisked away into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re seeking unique gifts or just yearning to sip cocoa beneath the starlit sky, these Christmas markets are set to be the epicentre of festive magic.
Dubai
Expo City Dubai
One of the highlights of Al Wasl Season, Winter City returns to Expo City Dubai from 6 to 31 December. Al Wasl Plaza transforms into a giant snow globe filled with chalet-style Christmas markets, traditional fairground games, a letter-to-Santa station and pine trees. Get into the spirit with hot chocolate, mince pies and mulled drinks, then stay for the tree lighting ceremony. The glittering 52-foot Christmas tree is set to take centre stage in the dome, complemented by nightly projection shows that light up the plaza.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Festival Bay
Dive into the holiday magic at Wonderland in Festival Bay – your go-to spot for all things festive. Stroll down the charming alley of kiosks or visit the Valley of Light Trees straight out of a holiday movie. Visitors can enjoy an array of exciting performances, including captivating kids’ and family shows, interactive entertainment, daily fireworks, Dubai Shopping Festival IMAGINE shows, and live music that brings the whole family together.
GO: Visit www.dubaifestivalcitymall.com for more information.
JLT Park
Get ready to unwrap the magic at JLT Winter Fest, where Dubai’s charm meets winter’s delight. Expect themed delights, thoughtful presents, and captivating performances, all wrapped up in the holiday spirit. Plus, there will be a tree lighting ceremony and also outdoor cinema screenings, including The Nightmare Before Christmas, on 20 December and Home Alone 2 on 27 December.
GO: Visit https://jlt.ae for more information.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Fort Island transforms into a winter wonderland as Madinat Jumeirah’s Festive Market returns with a towering 36-foot Christmas tree, choreographed light-and-sound shows and the scent of cinnamon drifting through the souk. Browse artisan stalls for seasonal gifts, pause for hot chocolate and festive bites, then hop on an abra to admire the twinkling lights from the water. Younger visitors can ride the North Pole Train, bounce on a four-lane bungee and whirl on a Venetian carousel, making this a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Available daily from 6 to 31 December, from 3pm.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Ski Dubai Winter Wonderland
Ski Dubai turns the season into pure magic from 1 to 25 December. Wander through a forest of Christmas trees, post your wish list straight to the North Pole, capture festive photos and meet Santa and his elves, all surrounded by real snow. New this year, Magic Planet joins the fun with Santa’s Magical Toy Workshop, plus an interactive colouring station beside Santa’s Grotto. Sensory-friendly Meet Santa sessions take place on 15 December at 6pm and 7pm, with Breakfast with Santa at 8am the same day. Packages include Meet Santa from AED 160 and Breakfast with Santa from AED 80.
GO: Visit skidxb.com for more information.
Winter District
Emirates Towers will present its annual Winter District once again this Christmas. Nestled on the terrace, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of Festive delights, including gourmet food and beverages, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal gifts. Adorned with enchanting decorations and a forest of Christmas trees, the venue hosts a range of activities, including carnival games, a carousel, snowball-fighting areas, and live music. Available daily, from 13 to 28 December.
GO: Visit www.winterdistrict.com for more information.
Abu Dhabi
Snow Abu Dhabi: Winter Wonderland
Snow Abu Dhabi brings a White Christmas to the capital from 12 to 25 December. Families can stroll among Christmas trees, snap snowy photo moments and meet Santa and his elves inside a real Winter Wonderland. Sensory-friendly Meet Santa sessions run daily from 15 to 19 December at 6pm, making it accessible for more little visitors. Festive packages include Meet Santa from AED 165. Breakfast with Santa is available from 12 to 25 December at 9am, priced at AED 80.
GO: Visit snowabudhabi.com for more information.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
The Galleria Al Maryah Island is about to sprinkle some winter magic your way. Until 26 December, you get a chance to enjoy the Winter Wonderland extravaganza. Santa’s Grotto awaits, so snap a pic with the man, surrounded by festive decorations and lively elves. And if you’re feeling peckish, swing by Santa’s Bakery for cookie decorating and gingerbread house competitions. Plus, let the little ones send their wishes with “Letters to Santa”.
GO: Visit www.thegalleria.ae for more information.
