There is nothing like a festive market and loads of shopping to get into the festive spirit for Christmas and New Year. Here are our favourites.
Winter Wonderland on Al Maryah Island
The annual Winter Wonderland on Al Maryah Island is treating guests with a world of entertainment and exciting festive attractions. Al Maryah Island, transforms into a spectacular Winter Wonderland this holiday season as Santa’s Grotto welcomes little ones and their families at The Galleria this festive season.
Visitors can celebrate the festive season and enjoy entertainment featuring roaming performances including marching bands and live stage shows. Visitors can also explore a wide selection of festive food and beverage offerings, arts and crafts, and enjoy carnival games for families.
A full schedule of live performances throughout the week will keep the whole family entertained with shows like Festive Flash Mob, performed by professional dance troupes; Santa’s Workshop Show, which is set to bring Christmas spirit through a spectacular group singing performance; Prince Drummer, Fantasia, Snow Swan, and Frosted performances. All shows and activities will take place between 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
Location Al Maryah Island Cost Free Timings December 7 to 24 from 3pm onwards
Madinat Jumeirah
This acclaimed festive market runs from December 17 to 27 and is open daily from 3pm to 1am on weekdays and 12pm to 1am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The market will feature a shimmering, beautifully-decorated festive tree at its centre, while a certain Mr. Claus appears daily at 5pm and 7pm. The market will also feature a series of rides, slides and games, including a North Pole train for the little ones, a two-lane bungee jump for teenagers, and a snow ball zone for children of all ages. Kids can also take abra tours with Santa and decorate a huge gingerbread house and cookie garden.
Location Fort Island, Madinat Jumeirah Cost Free Entry Dates December 15 to 27 Timings 3pm to 12am on weekdays and 12pm to 1am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays
The St. Regis Dubai
Explore an enchanting winter wonderland of festivities filled with dazzling decorations and holiday carols in the beautiful gardens of The St. Regis Dubai. From spectacular activities to a delicious Yuletide of holiday delights, the festive market comes alive with fun and favour for the whole family to enjoy. Themed activities for children, food and be charged separately.
Featuring various activities, and of course food from all three incredible venues, this festive market has a German flair. Other activities include a special snow fight zone with LED trees and lit up animals, giant snowman, snow globe, kid’s train, merry-go-round, Christmas cookie decorating and face painting stations.
Location Al Habtoor City, Shaikh Zayed Road Cost Free entry Dates December 7 to December 31 Timings Weekdays 5pm to 9pm Weekends 3pm to 9pm Contact 04 4355544
Winter Wonderland at BurJuman
BurJuman’s winter celebrations take place until January 6 and the mall is filled with fun winter activities, so why not take the family walking in a Winter Wonderland? Head to the mall any day between 3pm and 10pm to experience the festivities of the season, which includes everything from regularly scheduled snowfall to the magical Teddy Bear Tree and the roaming BurJuman Teddy Bear mascot.
Location BurJuman Centre Cost Free Timings Daily from 3pm to 10pm
Riverland Dubai's Festive on the river
Riverland Dubai will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland complete with a dusting of snow, twinkling lights and a special visit from Santa Claus & his Elves; along with a snow play area; and the world’s largest festive colouring book which is hoped will set a new Guinness World Record.
With festive décor decking the halls, Dubai’s first pop-up ice-rink, an outdoor cinema screening the season’s favourite movies and a traditional, European style festive market there is something for the whole family to enjoy. The enchanted line-up with also feature festive street entertainment and musical performances along with special holiday themed food and beverages.
Location Riverland Cost Free and free parking after 6.30pm Timings Daily from December 21 to January 6, 2018 from 4pm to 10pm
Yas Marina 'Let it Snow' festival
Enjoy the most magical time of the year at Yas Marina! Get into the festive spirit at their wonderful winter festival packed with fun games, snow-themed activities, a winter market and more.
Location Yas Marina Cost Free Timings Daily from 2pm to 9pm Contact 02 4062000
