Winter wonders and unmissable experiences
Dive into the UAE’s top events, festivals, and unbeatable deals this season
From festive escapades to musical marvels and unmissable sales, the UAE has your winter itinerary sorted. Whether you’re diving into marine magic, grooving to Bollywood beats, or snagging deals that can’t be beaten, there’s something for everyone this season. Ready to explore? Let these can’t-miss events and experiences take your weekends, celebrations, and shopping sprees to the next level!
Dive and Paddle into Marine Magic at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Location: SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Discover the wonders of marine life with two exciting new experiences at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi! Dive into the depths with Discover Scuba Diving, a two-hour encounter that brings you face-to-face with vibrant marine life inside the region’s largest aquarium. Perfect for beginners, this adventure starts with a theory session before plunging into a mesmerising underwater world.
For a more serene adventure, hop into a kayak with Kayak on Tropical Lagoon. Paddle through the dolphin habitat in Tropical Ocean, surrounded by tropical birds, flamingos, and dolphins. Learn fascinating facts from SeaWorld’s Zoological team as you explore this vibrant ecosystem. Both encounters are part of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s dedication to immersive, educational marine life experiences. Book ahead due to high demand and limited availability.
Contact: Reserve your spot at seaworldabudhabi.com
Winter Magic Awaits: Explore Dubai’s Winter Garden
Location: Winter Garden, Al Habtoor Palace
Celebrate the festive season at Dubai’s beloved Winter Garden, running from November 1, 2024 to January 31, 2025. Nestled in the elegant surroundings of Al Habtoor Palace, this enchanting outdoor venue offers a perfect mix of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and a vibrant festive atmosphere.
This year, explore the brand-new Souk by SAMSWEK Global, showcasing artisanal gifts, perfumes, jewelry, customised clothing, and more. Kids will love the dedicated play areas, including Go Kart Space, trampolines, and an interactive mini zoo with emus and reptiles. Pet lovers can join festive pet parades hosted by PetRepublic.
Savour seasonal delights from a variety of food kiosks, enjoy retro tunes, jazz evenings, and lively Latin beats on weekends, and don’t miss the iconic 18-metre tree lighting ceremony.
Contact: Purchase vouchers via the Loyal by AHG app. Email winter.garden@habtoorpalace.com or visit @wintergardendubai on Instagram.
Sing, Dance, and Groove with CoComelon LIVE in Dubai!
Location: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, UAE
Get ready for an unforgettable musical adventure with CoComelon LIVE: Sing-A-Long, coming to Dubai on December 20 and 21, 2024! Join JJ, Cody, Nina, Cece, and their friends on a Melon Patch Musical field trip packed with singing, dancing, and beloved songs like Wheels on the Bus, Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes, and more. This vibrant live show is perfect for families and fans of all ages, delivering endless fun and laughter!
Featuring interactive singalongs, lively performances, and special appearances from CoComelon’s favorite teacher, Ms. Appleberry, this is your chance to jam with the fam and make magical memories together. Tickets start at Dh150, with exclusive Meet and Greet add-ons available from Dh50.
Contact: Secure your tickets today at www.livenation.me. Don’t miss this global sensation!
Celebrate a Snowy Christmas at Ski Dubai and Snow Abu Dhabi
Locations: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates & Snow Abu Dhabi, Reem Mall
Step into a winter wonderland this festive season at Ski Dubai and Snow Abu Dhabi, where real snow and magical experiences await from December 1-25. With subzero temperatures and festive cheer, these iconic destinations offer a lineup of family-friendly activities to create unforgettable holiday memories.
Meet Santa Claus, enjoy a cozy Breakfast with Santa, or dive into exciting snow park adventures with packages starting at Dh130. From signature hot chocolate and surprise gifts made by Santa’s elves to thrilling snow rides like Zorb Ball and Climbing Walls, there’s something for everyone.
Families can capture magical moments with exclusive Family Meet Santa packages, or explore enchanted forest-themed rides at Snow Abu Dhabi.
Beat the holiday rush and grab the Early Bird Discounts until November 30.
Contact: Book your tickets at skidxb.com or snowabudhabi.com.
Dance, Dine, and Unwind: Sand & Sound Ula RAK Music Festival
Location: Ula Beach, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah
Turn your Saturdays into a beachfront party at the Sand & Sound Ula RAK Music Festival, running weekly. Featuring live performances by world-renowned DJs like Stasi Sanlin, Einmusik, and Ahmed Kilic, this festival promises coastal vibes, high-energy beats, and unforgettable moments under the stars.
Mark your calendars for these dates and performers:
• November 30: Silverfox
• December 7: Versa + Einmusik
• December 14: GIA
• December 21: ZEW + KMZ
• December 31: Ahmet Kilic
Choose from tailored packages, including the Wave Pass (Dh99) for entry or the VIP Platinum Shores (Dh4,000) for a luxe experience with premium bottles and a private table. Dance to electrifying tunes by the Ula pool or on the sands, and indulge in curated beverages and light bites to keep the energy high.
Make it a weekend getaway with special room discounts for festival-goers, including late checkouts.
Contact: Book tickets on Platinum List or call +971 72 4 60000 for details. Email reservation.almarjan@movenpick.com for exclusive stay offers.
Groove to Bollywood Beats: AKS Dance Festival
Location: Zero Gravity, Dubai Marina
Get ready for an electrifying celebration at the AKS Dance Festival, the Middle East’s first Bollywood festival, happening on November 30 and December 1, 9pm-3am at the iconic Zero Gravity. This two-day extravaganza blends Bollywood hits with the latest techno beats, promising a one-of-a-kind music experience.
On Day 1, enjoy high-energy Bollywood tracks and commercial hits spun by top DJs like Ace, Beatz, Harry, and Rahul. On Day 2, the vibe shifts to indo-tech music with performances by international stars like Basspatch (Canada) and Sartek (India), alongside local talent.
Tickets: Dh150 for a Weekend Pass (2 Days) or Dh100 for Single-Day Tickets, available on Platinumlist.
Contact: For tickets and details, visit Platinumlist. Follow @aksnights on Instagram for updates.
Celebrate National Pride: UAE National Day Workshop
Location: Treasure Island, Le Gourmet, Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall
Join the festivities at the UAE National Day Workshop on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 4.30pm to 6.30pm at Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall. Designed for all ages, this vibrant event is packed with fun-filled activities that celebrate creativity and the spirit of the UAE.
Kids and families can enjoy UAE flag face painting, canvas painting, and festive balloon bending. Showcase your style with trendy hair styling and colouring, or dance alongside cheerful mascots. Don’t miss the thrilling moment of breaking open a piñata! Each activity is crafted to ensure a memorable and joyful National Day celebration.
Cost: Dh150 per participant
Contact: Secure your spot now by calling +971 4 339 9933
Unmissable Deals Await: The White Friday Sale on Amazon.ae
Get ready for the biggest sale of the year as the White Friday Sale returns to Amazon.ae from November 20 to November 30. Shoppers in the UAE can enjoy up to 70 per cent off across millions of products, from everyday essentials to high-end electronics, fashion, beauty, and more.
Exclusive Prime Member perks
Prime members get early access on November 20, free and fast delivery, and exclusive discounts on Amazon Fresh groceries and essentials.
Join Prime for just Dh16/month or
Dh140/year to unlock the full shopping experience.
Top deals to expect
• Electronics: Save up to 49 per cent on headphones, laptops, and cameras from brands like Sony, Apple, and Lenovo.
• Amazon Devices: Discounts up to 53 per cent on Echo and Ring devices.
• Fashion & Beauty: Save up to 66 per cent on watches, apparel, and personal care products from brands like Anne Klein, Adidas, and Olaplex.
• Home & Kitchen: Deals on coffee machines, air fryers, and vacuum cleaners from Nespresso, Dyson, and more.
Flexible payment options
Enjoy instant bank discounts, Buy Now, Pay Later, and 0 per cent installment plans for added convenience.
Quick tip: Download the Amazon app for a seamless shopping experience and don’t forget to ask Alexa: “When is White Friday?”
Contact: Visit Amazon.ae/whitefriday to explore all deals and start saving!
Celebrate the Extravaganza: Dubai Shopping Festival
Mark your calendars for the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), running from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025. This citywide celebration promises unbeatable deals, world-class entertainment, and unforgettable experiences.
Shop till you drop with massive discounts across malls, retail outlets, and online stores. From luxury brands and electronics to local treasures, there’s something for everyone. But DSF is more than just shopping—it’s a vibrant festival with fireworks, live concerts, street performances, and family-friendly activities.
With its festive atmosphere and exciting line-up, DSF is a must-visit event for residents and tourists alike.
Contact: visit www.visitdubai.com.