Your guide to the best Christmas markets across the UAE
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
Al Habtoor City
Brace yourselves for the ultimate festive adventure at Winter Garden at Habtoor City. This urban wonderland, nestled in front of Habtoor Palace Dubai, is not only a feast for the eyes but also welcomes your furry pals for a stroll through the magic. Culinary delights await at the diverse food stalls, treating your taste buds. While the kiddos go wild in the Extreme Excite-designed play area, you can savour seasonal flavours until 31 January. Complete with illuminations, Santa visits, and festive surprises, let the joyous celebrations begin.
GO: Visit www.alhabtoorcity.com for more information.
Expo City Dubai
Gear up for a frosty adventure at Winter City in Expo City Dubai, running until 7 January. Join Santa’s mission to save the North Pole while embracing sustainability messages. Explore Santa’s enchanting house, where children can learn the North Pole’s eco-friendly secrets. Frosty’s Farmhouse spills the beans on farm-to-table living, and Santa’s Toy Factory dives into STEM-based sustainable toy making – eco-fun at its finest. Craft sustainable letters to Santa, and in Mrs. Claus’ Bakery, decorate polar-themed cookies while picking up climate-friendly tips from Santa’s elves.
GO: Visit www.expocitydubai.com 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 festive kiosks with characters like Gingerbread Man and Frosty the Snowman. Catch Rudolf the Reindeer on his evening stroll. Visit the Valley of Light Trees straight out of a holiday movie, then head to Santa’s log cabin for wish-sharing and festive pics. Kids can join Santa’s Magical Workshops and explore the enchanting Ice Maze with the Snow Queen. Don’t miss the toys parade, Holiday Extravaganza, and a feast at Eats Square — located in Dubai Festival City Mall.
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. From 15 to 23 December at JLT Park, join the neighbourhood for a festive fiesta that’ll warm your heart. Picture themed delights, thoughtful presents, and captivating performances, all wrapped up in the holiday spirit. The JLT Winter Festival is your ticket to ultimate festive fun and the best part? It’s free!
GO: Visit https://jlt.ae for more information.
Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Gear up for a festive treat because Winter District is taking over the Plaza Terrace at Jumeirah Emirates Towers from 14 December to 4 January. Imagine twinkling lights, festive vibes, and a stunning backdrop of the Museum of the Future – adding glam to your celebrations. Dive into an enchanting marketplace with locally crafted treasures, perfect for your gift list. Indulge in Christmas culinary delights that’ll warm your heart, explore Santa’s Grotto for precious moments, and enjoy live music and carolers. With face painting, games, and arts and crafts, it’s Insta-worthy fun for all ages.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Jumeirah Golf Estates Golf & Country Club
Gather the whole family — and your furry pals — for a jolly good time at the Feastival in Jumeirah Golf Estates Golf & Country Club. On 16 December, you’ll get a chance to meet Santa, shop at the Christmas Market for pawsome gifts, and let your pups shine in the Fun Dog Show. Later, jingle all the way with the live DJ and band at the Christmas Festival – they’ve got the perfect holiday tunes to keep you dancing. Don’t forget the magical Santa’s Grotto and the enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting. Oh, and did we mention snowfall every hour? It’s a winter wonderland for everyone that you won’t want to miss.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Madinat Jumeirah
Brace yourselves for the ultimate holiday extravaganza at the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market. Hop on the North Pole Train, take a thrilling four-lane bungee ride, or enjoy a spin on the Venetian carousel, this place has plenty to do. Little ones can join Santa on Abra rides, decorate their gingerbread house, and indulge in festive treats while a live band sets the perfect seasonal mood.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Ski Dubai
Make this Christmas merry and frosty at Ski Dubai. Until 25 December, you get a chance to meet Santa. Snap a photo with the man in red, score a surprise gift from his elves, and warm up with signature hot chocolate and snuggly fleece gloves. Or, if you’re feeling peckish, opt for the Breakfast with Santa for a festive breakfast at North 28. It’s the perfect Christmas treat for families.
GO: Visit www.skidxb.com for more information.
The Green Planet
Get ready for a tropical snowfall like never before at The Green Planet. For the first time, this eco-friendly simulated snowfall will transform the Rainforest into a Winter Wonderland, running until 7 January. The festivities include a daily Santa’s workshop, festive choirs, and an eco-friendly Christmas Tree made of recycled materials. Don’t miss the chance to decorate Christmas cards using sustainable materials and meet Santa in his green outfit every weekend. Indulge in festive treats at the Rainforest cafe and explore sustainable gifts at the Festive Market.
GO: Visit https://thegreenplanetdubai.com for more information.
Abu Dhabi
Snow Abu Dhabi
Brace yourselves for an icy escapade at Snow Abu Dhabi and let your inner child run wild. Until 25 December, dive into the Snowflake Garden, where adventure lurks around every frosty corner. Glide through an enchanted forest, feel the thrill of winter rides, and create memories that will warm your heart. Whether you’re up for laid-back snow activities or seeking an adrenaline rush, this place has got you covered.
GO: Visit https://reemmall.ae 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, nestled in the North Atrium, awaits your visit, 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.
Ras Al Khaimah
Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort
Dive into the magic of winter wonder at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort. Until 29 December, this place will have a fantastic mix of activities – yoga, arts and crafts, puzzles, dance, and more. You also get to indulge in a hearty lunch and snacks while your little ones have a blast.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for more information.
Sharjah
Al Qasba
Brace yourselves for the ultimate winter extravaganza at Al Qasba. Here, every day is a festival day packed with entertainment shows that will light up your winter nights. Get ready to be dazzled by performances that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make your evenings merry and bright.
GO: Visit www.alqasba.ae for more information.
