Christmas in Dubai might not be what is traditionally believed as snowy white pictures of the season, but it gives something that is equally unforgettable in the form of sunshine, spectacle, and a definite sense of celebration. The city takes the holidays in its unique fashion, with festive brunches and Christmas markets, beachside lunches, and ski slopes in the shopping malls. Whether you are planning to experience the festive season here or not, you should know that you are not going to miss out on any of the magic. From turkey dinners to Santa sightings, here are 10 things you must know before spending Christmas in Dubai.
Table of Contents
10 Essential Things to Know Before Spending Christmas in Dubai
1. Christmas Is Not a Public Holiday in the UAE
The UAE is a Muslim country, and hence Christmas is not a recognized public holiday. The day off is not mandatory, and it is better to confirm before your work schedule. You might have to seek annual leave in case you want to have off on Christmas Day.
2. Expect a Sunny Christmas Day
Stop thinking of woolly jumpers and icy pavements. Christmas in Dubai is sunny and pleasant, with the average daytime temperature standing at 26°C and 17°C at night. The winter is very nice, and it is great to have dinner outside, visit the beach, and attend other festive al fresco parties.
3. You Can Still Have a White Christmas
Although it is unlikely to snow out in the open, Dubai has excellent options. Ski Dubai also offers snow experiences all year round, and the alpine-style restaurants that look over the indoor slopes serve fondue, winter beverages, and an après-ski atmosphere, just in case one needs a small dose of winter magic.
4. No Boxing Day Sales—But the Dubai Shopping Festival
Dubai does not have Boxing Day sales, but customers are not left without much. The Dubai Shopping Festival starts before Christmas and extends to January, with significant discounts in the malls, high-end brands, and entertainment spots. Better still, shopping malls are open on Christmas Day.
5. Santa Claus Makes His Rounds
Although the setting of the place is in the desert, Santa is quite evident in Dubai. Festive pop-ups, Christmas markets, and even attractions for families will have Santa and his elves. In particular, Ski Dubai boasts of festive programming, full of faux snow, carol singing, and seasonal gifts.
6. Christmas Trees Are Easy to Find—But Order Early
Christmas trees are seen everywhere in the city during December, starting with the hotel lobbies and up to shopping malls. There are both artificial and real trees available, with the real trees usually being pre-sold in advance because these are not stocked in-store since they are in demand.
7. Church Services Are Available
Christmas services will give their desires a myriad of choices. There are a number of churches in various Christian denominations in Dubai. Some of the most popular during the festive period are St Mary’s Catholic Church in Oud Metha and St. Francis of Assisi Church in Jebel Ali.
8. Turkey Is Readily Available
Although fresh birds are available in supermarkets, the majority of residents use takeaway turkeys cooked in hotels, restaurants, and cafes. They typically come with classic roast potatoes, vegetables, gravy, and cranberry sauce, and cost as little as Dhs150 and much more when at a high-end hotel restaurant.
9. Dining Out Is the Norm on Christmas Day
Christmas Day in Dubai is equated to brunch. Hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs have elaborate Christmas Day lunches with traditional festive foods as well as large international buffets. Anticipate themed decor, live entertainment, and a visit by Santa, and the costs are usually around Dhs350-Dhs850.
10. The City Operates as Normal
In Dubai, it is a normal day during Christmas. There are shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and entertainment centers open. You can be deciding on last-minute food, going out to dinner, or just enjoying the city, and everything will flow as usual.
Final Thoughts
A Christmas in Dubai will be a cool alternative to the traditional snowy holiday—dining and sun rays, award-winning restaurants, and a memorable holiday. You can be here on indulgent brunches, family-friendly parties, or just on a holiday in the warm weather, but whatever the reason, Dubai produces a Christmas that is different, yet memorable.