Dubai is magical all year round—but Christmas in Dubai 2025 is shaping up to be more spectacular than ever. Whether you’re a tourist flying in for a sunny winter escape, an expat looking to create festive memories, or a family planning your holiday outings, Dubai becomes a glittering wonderland every December.

From world-famous Christmas markets to luxury festive brunches, snow-filled attractions, and record-breaking decorations, the city blends global Christmas charm with Arabian hospitality. This detailed guide covers everything you need: top events, family activities, weather expectations, travel tips, and much more.

Welcome to your complete Dubai Christmas travel guide for 2025.

Why Dubai Is a Fantastic Place to Celebrate Christmas in 2025

Dubai offers a unique combination of:

• Sunny winter weather

• Massive Christmas events and light shows

• World-class malls and markets

• Indoor snow parks for a “winter” experience

• Luxury dining and festive brunch culture

• Safe, family-friendly attractions

• Easy flights and seamless travel services

Even though the UAE is not traditionally a Christmas-celebrating country, Dubai has become one of the world’s most festive global hotspots, attracting millions of holiday visitors every December.

Top Christmas Events in Dubai 2025

From giant tree-lighting ceremonies to winter carnivals, these Dubai Christmas events are expected to headline the 2025 holiday season.

1. Dubai Winter Festival 2025

The Dubai Winter Festival is the heart of the city’s Christmas celebrations. Expect:

• Live music and festive performances

• Santa’s Grotto for photos

• Snowball zones and winter-themed games

• Candy-making and gingerbread workshops

• Food stalls with international Christmas treats

This is one of the must-visit festive things to do in Dubai for families and tourists.

2. Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market

One of the most iconic Dubai Christmas markets, held against the backdrop of Burj Al Arab. It offers:

• A 36-foot Christmas tree

• Festive food stalls

• Artisan gift shops

• Live carol performances

• Mini train rides for kids

• Abra rides with Santa

Perfect for photos, shopping, and soaking in holiday vibes.

3. Ski Dubai – Meet Santa in the Snow Park

If you want a real snowy Christmas in Dubai 2025, Ski Dubai brings winter to the desert.

Activities include:

• Santa meet-and-greet

• Sledding and snow tubing

• Indoor snowball fights

• Christmas movie nights

• Penguin encounters

A magical event for children—and adults who want a winter wonderland moment.

4. Expo City Dubai – Winter City 2025

Expo City transforms into a glowing festive village featuring:

• Giant Christmas tree

• Multicultural Christmas stalls

• Light installations

• Live shows and parades

• Choir performances

• Eco-friendly holiday decorations

A beautiful blend of modern, global, and sustainable holiday spirit.

5. Dubai Opera – Christmas Concerts & Ballets

Expect classics like:

• The Nutcracker

• Christmas carol concerts

• Festive orchestral nights

A perfect choice if you’re craving a cultural, elegant Christmas evening.

Best Places for Christmas Brunch & Dinner in Dubai 2025

Dubai is famous for its luxury Christmas brunches and gala dinners. Here are the top picks for 2025.

1. Atlantis The Palm – Festive Brunch

A Christmas feast like no other featuring:

• Premium seafood

• International live cooking stations

• Holiday desserts

• Santa appearances

• Activities for kids

The hotel’s decorations alone are worth visiting.

2. Burj Al Arab – Christmas Fine Dining

For those who want an ultra-luxury experience:

• 5-star festive tasting menus

• Live entertainment

• Premium holiday beverages

• Panoramic views

Perfect for couples and luxury travelers.

3. Jumeirah Beach Hotel – Family Christmas Brunch

Highlights include:

• Outdoor seating with ocean views

• Turkey carving stations

• Gingerbread decorating

• Kids’ play zones

• Visits from Santa

A great option for large families.

4. Irish Village – Traditional Christmas Roast

If you prefer something casual and authentic:

• Roast turkey with stuffing

• Christmas pudding

• Mulled beverages

• Live festive music

Popular among expats who miss a “home-style Christmas.”

5. Global Village – Multicultural Christmas Food

Affordable, global, and incredible:

• Treats from over 90 countries

• Festive performances

• Nightly fireworks

• Great for families

 

Christmas Markets & Shopping Spots in Dubai 2025

Dubai is famous for its shopping scene, and December is peak season.

1. Dubai Mall – Festive Sales & Winter Decorations

Expect:

• Huge discounts

• Festive pop-ups

• Christmas window displays

• Santa meet-and-greet

• Ice Rink experiences

• Online Vape Shop

Plus, the mall’s giant indoor decorations make it a must-visit.

2. Mall of the Emirates – Luxury Christmas Shopping

Perfect if you’re shopping for:

• High-end gifts

• Designer fashion

• Premium jewelry

• Electronics

Also home to Ski Dubai, so you can shop and “snow play” on the same day.

3. Souk Madinat Christmas Market

Artisan gifts include:

• Handmade jewelry

• Local crafts

• Holiday décor

• Personalized items

Great for finding unique, memorable presents.

4. Expo City Holiday Market

Eco-friendly, handmade, and ethical products. Ideal for conscious shoppers.

5. Ripe Market – Festive Edition

A community-style Christmas market featuring:

• Organic treats

• Small business pop-ups

• Local artists

• Fun workshops

Family-Friendly Christmas Activities in Dubai 2025

Dubai is one of the world’s best family destinations during the holidays.

1. Miracle Garden – Christmas Floral Displays

Special holiday sections with:

• Floral Christmas trees

• Light tunnels

• Santa-themed displays

A perfect spot for photos and evening walks.

2. Global Village – Winter Wonderland

Top features:

• Santa’s House

• Snow zones

• Fireworks

• Carnival rides

Kids absolutely love it.

3. Dubai Parks & Resorts – Festive Parades

Motiongate, Legoland, and Riverland offer:

• Themed shows

• Holiday characters

• Winter-themed rides

• Festive snacks

4. Dubai Safari Park – Christmas Wildlife Experience

Special seasonal programs for kids such as:

• Festive animal shows

• Christmas-themed wildlife walk

• Eco-friendly workshops

5. Palm Jumeirah Fireworks

A great way to end Christmas Day with a bang! Families gather along the beaches to watch the magical displays.

Weather in Dubai in December 2025

December is one of the best months to visit Dubai.

• Temperature: 18°C – 27°C

• Humidity: Low

• Skies: Clear and sunny

• Rain: Very minimal

• Sea temperature: Warm enough for beach activities

Perfect for outdoor dining, shopping, and beach days.

 Dubai Christmas Travel Guide 2025 (For Tourists)

Here’s everything you need to know if you’re visiting Dubai during Christmas 2025.

🎫 Visa Information for December Travel

Most tourists need a UAE visit visa unless they are from visa-on-arrival countries.

General requirements include:

• Valid passport (6 months)

• Return flight ticket

• Hotel booking or UAE address

• Bank statements (if required)

👉 For a smooth, quick visa application, Global Sky Visa can assist with Dubai visas, Schengen visas, UK visas, and more.

Budgeting for Christmas in Dubai

Dubai can be affordable—or ultra-luxury—depending on your style.

Estimated Budget (per person):

• Flights: Varies by country (book 2–3 months early)

• Hotels: AED 350–1800 per night

• Christmas brunch: AED 250–700

• Christmas markets: AED 20–50 entry (some free)

• Attractions: AED 100–350

Transport Tips

• Metro: Affordable and efficient

• Taxis: Widely available

• Careem & Uber: Convenient for families

• Rental cars: Best for long stays

• Abra rides: Great at Madinat Jumeirah and Dubai Creek

Best Time to Arrive

For Christmas (Dec 25), plan to arrive around:

• Dec 20–23 for events

• Dec 23–26 for brunches

• Dec 24 evening for prime dinners

 

FAQs About Christmas in Dubai 2025

Is Christmas celebrated in Dubai?

Yes! Dubai embraces global festivals and hosts massive Christmas events, markets, and performances.

Is Dubai decorated for Christmas?

Absolutely—malls, hotels, markets, and outdoor venues all display festive lights and Christmas décor.

Can you meet Santa in Dubai?

Yes, at Ski Dubai, Madinat Jumeirah, Expo City, Global Village, and many malls.

Do restaurants offer Christmas dinners?

Yes. Dubai is world-famous for Christmas brunch culture.

Is Dubai expensive during Christmas?

It can be, but with planning you can find affordable options too.

Conclusion: Experience the Magic of Christmas in Dubai 2025

Christmas in Dubai 2025 blends sunshine, celebration, and luxury in a way few destinations can offer. Whether you’re visiting for festive markets, winter attractions, fireworks, or family activities, Dubai delivers a holiday season you’ll remember for years.