UAE residents enjoy a festive Christmas Eve with bright lights and delicious food

Christmas this year is largely a muted affair across the world because of the ongoing pandemic. However, in the UAE, while precautions are at the top of everyone’s to-do list, a close second is bringing the festive cheer. On hand to help are the bright decorations, bazaars and other special offerings for everyone. Above: People revel under the bright Christmas decor in the Winter Garden in Al Habtoor City.

There’s so much to do at this time of year – including all that shopping. Get the best deals in the UAE as the country really knows how to do festive. | Above: It’s all lights, cameras and action at the Winter Garden in Al Habtoor City. Don’t forget to take your Insta-shot when you visit.

Feel like singing along to old favorites or are you in the mood for new tunes? Check out the live stage shows across Dubai, including in Al Habtoor City (pictured above).

Some of the best gifts you can get serve a practical purpose. | Above: People enjoy their Christmas shopping experience at ACE in Dubai Festival City.

City Walk shines bright on a cool evening in December.

Besides the bright lights, there are also other indicators that winter is on hand, including an installation of snowmen.

Whether you crave a lit - see what we did there? - picture for your Insta frame or just a fun, evening out with family, there's something for everyone in Dubai.

The Winter Garden in Al Habtoor City is perfect for a very merry outing.

People enjoy their Christmas shopping experience at ACE in Dubai Festival City.

Cookies and cakes and eggnog, oh my. There’re so many sweet treats to choose from right now. | Above: People enjoy the beautiful Christmas at City Walk.

A man dressed up as Santa Claus rides a camel at Global Village as life-sized gingerbread men and people dressed as elves join his procession.

Malls are getting in on the action with installations of characters from various Christmas-themed stories, including the 'Nutcracker' (pictured above at The Dubai Mall).

People rush to get their last-minute shopping done at The Dubai Mall a day ahead of Christmas.

In Dubai you can actually play with real snow around Christmas - there's Ski Dubai and the Ski Rink in Dubai Mall (pictured). So have yourself a merry little Christmas...because you can!

Lights add warmth to the interiors at Dubai Mall. It is after all the most wonderful time of the year.

St. Mary's Church's online mass

Christians outside St. Mary's Church on Christmas Eve as the church is closed for visitors.