Christmas in Dubai provides a unique experience by combining global traditions with the city’s luxury and cultural diversity. With Christmas just around the corner, many are looking for the ideal venue to celebrate this day. Malls, hotels, and residential communities are adorned with Christmas trees, lights, and themed installations. Moreover, you can enjoy deals on brunches and dinners.
Christmas Day is celebrated on 25th December every year. In 2025, it falls on a Thursday, 25th December. Christmas Day is not a public holiday in the UAE. In December, Dubai celebrates the festival with Christmas markets, curated dining experiences, shopping deals, and entertainment for all ages.
This time, the Global Village will feature two Christmas trees, standing tall at 21 meters, approximately seven stories tall. On the other hand, Dubai Festival City will host a 15-meter-tall tree.
Christmas Markets in Dubai 2025
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
It is the most iconic Christmas market, which is located in Madinat Jumeirah. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of unique experiences in this market. Fort Island at Madinat Jumeirah enchants with a dazzling winter wonderland, with a 36-foot Christmas tree, glittering lights, and festive decorations. Visitors can explore the stalls, enjoy live music, and seasonal delicacies. Kids can play in the snow zone, a Venetian carousel, and a North Pole train ride.
Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers
The Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers offers a collection of market stalls, festive culinary experiences, a Christmas tree, and fun activities for people of all ages. Visitors can enjoy live performances and visit Santa’s grotto.
Winter City at Expo City Dubai
Al Wasl Plaza at Expo City will turn into Winter City, a dazzling holiday wonderland. You can enjoy live performances, interactive workshops, glittering lights, and falling snow. Don’t miss the chance to experience this exciting vibe and enjoy the festive fun.
Meet Santa at Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai will become a winter wonderland, where Santa and his elves welcome families at their festive grotto on the snowy slopes. It is the perfect event to capture the essence of happiness, while creating unforgettable memories.
The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera
The Nutcracker, one of the most popular holiday ballets, will be held at Dubai Opera. Accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the ballet tells the story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince through snowy kingdoms and the Land of Sweets. It attracts visitors of all ages.
Christmas Brunches
Nammos Dubai
Nammos Dubai reopens with a contemporary look, blending beach club vibes with gourmet dining for a full day. Guests can experience its signature Mykonos-meets-Dubai glamour, with dishes such as red prawns, tartare with citrus & melissa cress, hamachi daikon roll with red ponzu and yuzu kosho, and more.
Location: Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah 2
Time: December 24 and 25
Roast by Bubbalicious
Roast by Bubbalicious is a popular spot for Christmas brunches. Guests can enjoy a buffet, live carving stations, live performances, and a vibrant social setting. It is a perfect option for families and groups.
Location: Bubbalicious, The Westin Dubai Mena Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Time: December 25, 1 PM to 4 PM
Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai
If you are looking for a warm Mediterranean-style Christmas, Noia by the Pool offers a festive family brunch. Located on the 11th-floor rooftop at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, guests can enjoy seafood, seasonal dishes, and live cooking stations by a 25-meter infinity pool.
Location: Noia by the Pool, Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai
Time: December 25, 1 PM to 4 PM
The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill
If you are looking for a brasserie-style Christmas with a vibrant setting, head to The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill at Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR). Enjoy oysters, seafood platters, roast turkey, and festive cocktails.
Location: The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill, JBR
Time: December 25, 12 PM to 4 PM
Tagomago
Tagomago on Palm West Beach offers Ibiza-style Christmas vibes. It offers seafood, chargrilled meats, and Spanish festive dishes, refreshing drinks, and beachfront views.
Location: Tagomago, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah
Time: December 25, 1 PM to 5 PM
Yalumba
Yalumba delivers a festive experience to people of all ages. With Santa’s arrival, DJ Kennedy’s lively set, and kids’ entertainment, it becomes an ultimate destination celebrating Christmas.
Location: Yalumba
Time: December 25, 1 PM to 4 PM
Summing Up
Dubai is renowned for a wide range of festive events during Christmas. From Christmas markets and winter villages to gourmet dining and top-tier entertainment, the city caters to all age groups. The markets like Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market, Winter District, Winter City, and The Nutcracker deliver memorable experiences. Visitors can indulge in holiday treats, special events, and celebrate the event wholeheartedly. Although it is not a public holiday in the UAE, the festive spirit in Dubai offers joyful experiences for families, singles, couples, and friends.
FAQs
Is Christmas officially celebrated in Dubai?
Although Christmas is not a public or religious holiday in the UAE, it is celebrated across the city. Hotel, malls, and restaurants come alive with festive decorations, special events, holiday brunches, and Christmas markets throughout the month.
When is Christmas Day in Dubai in 2025?
Christmas Day will be celebrated on Thursday, 25th December.
Are Christmas markets available in Dubai?
In 2025, major Christmas markets include Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market, Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, and Winter City at Expo City Dubai.
