Festive season sparkles across the UAE
Family-friendly activities tio enjoy at the UAE’s top festive venues this season
Get Creative with Gingerbread House Decorating activity
Location: Arabesque Café, Al Ain
Unleash your inner artist and embrace the holiday spirit with a fun-filled gingerbread house decorating activity! Perfect for children and families, this event lets you craft your own edible masterpiece using frosting, sprinkles, candies, and more. A delightful way to celebrate the season together!
Date & Time: December 20, 4PM – 7PM
Price: Dh 79 per house
Tickets: Available at Tea Lounge
Contact: +971 50 900 6612; fnb.alain@danathotels.com
Sparkle and Celebrate at City Walk’s Festive Extravaganza
Location: City Walk, Dubai
Join the festivities at City Walk as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) with a season packed full of extraordinary experiences, until January 12, 2025. The vibrant open-air destination will come alive with dazzling décor, a towering LED Christmas tree, and bespoke lighting installations, making every visit magical.
Catch the holiday musical blending contemporary dance styles, running from December 14 to 25 at 7PM daily, or celebrate New Year’s Eve with a special performance by the renowned artist Nasma. The celebration continues into the New Year with Lexie’s energetic performance on January 1.
Relax in the C2 Licensed District courtyards, where live performances by bands like the Sonix Band, Kristina & Band, and Flamik Band fill the air with enchanting melodies across select days.
Dates: Until January 12, 2025
Contact: For detailed entertainment schedules, visit www.citywalk.ae/en
Light Up the Season at Jumeirah Golf Estates
Location: Earth Terrace
Start your festive celebrations with the annual tree lighting celebration on the scenic Earth Terrace. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Christmas carols, live entertainment, and fun activities for kids. Adding to the magic, Santa Claus and his merry elves will make a special appearance, bringing gifts and prizes for everyone!
Date & Time: Saturday, December 14, 5PM – 8PM
Price: Free entry
Contact: +971 56 998 3703
Step into the Magic of Snow & Glow Fest
Location: Palmito Garden, JA The Resort
Experience an enchanting winter wonderland at the Snow & Glow Fest! JA The Resort’s whimsical festive village offers a holiday-themed play area for kids, live entertainment, and a packed schedule of merry activities. Sip on festive beverages while the little ones play, and soak in the holiday cheer with laughter, joy, and dazzling festivities for all ages.
Date & Time: From December 13, open daily from 6PM – 10 PM (except Wednesdays)
Offer: Festive village with kids’ activities and live entertainment
Price: Complimentary for in-house guests
Contact: restaurant.reservation@jaresorts.com
+971 4 814 5604 / +971 4 814 5603
Enchanting Fireworks and Festive Fun
Location: Riverland, Dubai Parks and Resorts
Celebrate the season with weekend fireworks, Santa’s Toy Factory Parade, and enchanting stilt walkers at Riverland Dubai. Families can enjoy themed dining, holiday specials, and the magical Riverland boat experience. From Italian at Viva Ristorante to traditional Irish fare at The Keg, there’s something to satisfy every palate in this festive wonderland.
Dates: Throughout December 2024
Contact: +971 800 262 946
Make a Splash This Holiday at Wild Wadi Waterpark
Location: Wild Wadi Waterpark, Jumeirah, Dubai
Dive into the festive season at Wild Wadi Waterpark with the Winter Island Paradise! Enjoy a Festive Splash Pass with up to 30 per cent off tickets from 7th December to 6th January, giving you access to all rides and attractions. The waterpark will be decked out in Christmas-themed decorations and holiday tunes to keep the festive spirit alive.
Don’t miss the Surfing Santa from 15th to 25th December, showing off his moves on the waves! With DJ pool parties, festive treats like hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows, and surprise Santa appearances, this is holiday fun like no other.
Dates: Until 6th January 2025
Contact: +971 4 348 4444
info@wildwadi.com
Dance Into the Festive Spirit with ABBA Reunion
Location: QE2, Dubai
Celebrate the holidays in style with ABBA Reunion - A Christmas Special! This dazzling live performance brings ABBA’s timeless hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” to life, complete with stunning costumes and a festive twist. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to ABBA’s magic, this show promises an unforgettable nostalgic journey.
Enhance your experience by indulging in tea at the Lido or an exquisite afternoon tea before the show.
Date: 22nd December
Special offer: Enjoy 10 per cent off tickets with code QE2TEN
Contact: +971 (0)4-5268835
dining.qe2@accor.com
Festive Football Fun
Location: Real Madrid World, Dubai Parks and Resorts
Football meets holiday cheer at Real Madrid World! Enjoy Santa Football Freestyler shows, Spanish-themed holiday décor, and festive treats like churros. Highlights include the Elf Freestyle Beat and Madrid Navidad Acrobatic Show. Shop exclusive hampers and enter giveaways for signed Real Madrid jerseys and free park tickets.
Dates: Until 12th January, 2025
Contact: +971 800 262 946
A LEGO Wonderland
Location: LEGOLAND Dubai Resort, Dubai Parks and Resorts
Discover a magical LEGO winter wonderland with activities like Build-A-Sleigh Championship, LEGO Santa meet-and-greets, and the DUPLO Christmas tree lighting. Guests can also enjoy Christmas Day feasts at Bricks Family Restaurant and shop for exclusive LEGO festive keepsakes.
Dates: Until 7th January, 2025
Contact: +971 800 262 946
Experience the Thrill of LIWA Village
Location: Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi
Celebrate Emirati culture and adventure at Liwa Village, part of the Liwa International Festival 2025, from December 13 to January 4. Enjoy thrilling highlights such as hot air balloon shows, FMX stunts, Monster Jam, live performances by top artists, immersive art, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss this ultimate winter destination with camping and glamping options available.
Dates: December 13, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Contact: www.liwafestival.ae
Rock Out with Bryan Adams at the World Tennis League
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Don’t miss a legendary night of music and tennis as Bryan Adams, the Grammy-winning rock icon, takes the stage at the World Tennis League. Sing along to his timeless hits at Abu Dhabi’s premier entertainment venue. Adding to the excitement, global superstar Anastacia will join as a special guest, delivering powerhouse performances for an unforgettable evening.
Date: December 19, 2024
Contact: www.tickets.etihadarena.ae