For many people, the idea of Christmas in Dubai might seem strange. As a Muslim-majority country, is it a holiday? The answer is both no and yes. Christmas is not an official public holiday in the UAE, but it is widely celebrated in Dubai and other cities. With its large population of expatriates, the city has fully embraced the festive season with a rich mix of traditions, events, and decorations, creating a unique holiday atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Things to Know About Spending Christmas in Dubai
So, is christmas celebrated in dubai? Yes, it is! While it might be a working day for many, the city transforms into a festive wonderland. Here are 10 things to know about spending Christmas in Dubai that will help you plan your holiday.
Practicalities of a Dubai Christmas
- Not a Public Holiday: Christmas Day is a normal working day in the United Arab Emirates. However, because of the large expat community, many private companies and businesses close, and the city still has a holiday feel.
- The Weather is Great: Instead of a cold, snowy winter, you can enjoy a warm, sunny holiday. The average temperature in December is around 25°C, perfect for relaxing at a beach, dining outdoors, or enjoying a desert safari.
- Hotels are the Center of the Festivities: Hotels, especially five-star ones, are the main places for Christmas events. They host parties, offer special menus, and have the biggest and most impressive decorations.
- Christmas Dinners are Delivered: Many restaurants and hotels offer a special takeaway service for a full Christmas dinner, including a turkey with all the trimmings, so you can enjoy a classic meal at home.
- Church Services are Available: For those who want to attend a religious service, there are many churches in Dubai for different denominations, including St. Mary’s and St. Francis.
Enjoying the Festive Spirit
- Decorations are Everywhere: You will see a lot of Christmas decorations, from huge, beautifully lit Christmas trees in hotel lobbies and malls to festive lights and displays all over the city. You can’t miss the festive spirit!
- Christmas Brunches are a Tradition: One of the most popular ways to celebrate is with a Christmas Day brunch. Many hotels and restaurants offer special holiday buffets with traditional festive dishes, live music, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Shopping is a Big Part of the Season: The city is famous for its shopping. You can Christmas shop round the clock at giant malls and traditional souks. The Dubai Shopping Festival also starts around this time.
- You Can Still Find Snow: If you miss a white Christmas, you can visit a winter wonderland at Ski Dubai. It has real snow, skiing, toboggan rides, and other snow-themed activities.
- Christmas Markets: Many places host festive Christmas markets, like the one at Madinat Jumeirah. These markets often feature German-style food, unique gifts, and a charming, traditional holiday atmosphere.
Festive Activities and Events
Here are eight fun things to do during the Christmas season in Dubai.
Unique Dubai Experiences
- Visit a Winter Wonderland: While Dubai has no natural snow, you can still visit a winter wonderland at places like Ski Dubai. This indoor ski resort has real snow, tobogganing, and special festive events with carol singers and Santa’s elves. Other malls also have festive-themed snow parks.
- Celebrate Christmas at the Global Village: This massive theme park is a great place to visit. During the holidays, you can celebrate Christmas at the Global Village with special events, live shows, and holiday-themed food and shopping from different countries.
- Go on a Desert Safari: For a truly unique and non-traditional Christmas experience, you can go on a desert safari. You can enjoy dune bashing, a traditional dinner under the stars, and camel rides.
- Enjoy Outdoor Cinemas and Light Shows: During the mild December weather, many places host outdoor cinemas showing holiday movies. You can also find beautiful light shows and festive displays in parks and public spaces.
Classic Holiday Activities
- Enjoy a Christmas Day Brunch: A holiday brunch is a very popular tradition. Many top hotels and restaurants offer special holiday buffets with traditional festive dishes, seafood, and a lively atmosphere, often with entertainment for the whole family.
- Go Christmas Shopping: The city is a shopper’s paradise, especially during the holidays. You can Christmas shop round the clock at giant malls like the Dubai Mall or find unique gifts at a traditional souk. The Dubai Shopping Festival is also a great time for deals.
- Attend Christmas Shows and Performances: Look for special holiday-themed performances like the Nutcracker ballet or concerts featuring carolers and live music at various venues across the city.
- Attend a Church Service: For those who want a religious experience, there are many churches in Dubai. They hold special services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for the Christian community.
Conclusion
Christmas in Dubai is a unique and exciting experience that combines traditional festive cheer with a modern, cosmopolitan twist. From visiting a snowy winter wonderland to celebrating with a Christmas brunch, the city offers many ways to enjoy the holiday. It’s a wonderful example of how different cultures can come together to create something special, making Christmas in the United Arab Emirates a memorable time for everyone.
To continue your journey into the richness of the Arabic language and its cultures, consider using the Kaleela app. It provides comprehensive lessons on Modern Standard Arabic and various dialects, helping you master not just the words but also the traditions behind them.