Thousands swap cold climes for Christmas in UAE

Dubai: Freezing cold weather, a chance to escape the in-laws or just simple frustration at the hordes of shoppers around every corner.

Whatever the reason, thousands of people are escaping their native countries and flying to the UAE for a sun-drenched Christmas in the desert.

Temperatures are expected to be around 25 degrees in the UAE on Christmas Day, although there is a chance of light rain showers, and the country's parks, beaches and hotel pools are expected to be filled with holidaymakers opting against tradition.

Jonathan Twomey, a 39-year-old IT consultant from the UK, is spending Christmas at the Westin hotel in Al Sufouh with his partner Allison Searle.

He said: "I have spent a lot of time working in Dubai this year but there was little time for fun or sun, Therefore, I thought it was only right to spend Christmas and New Year in the UAE.

"We are staying in Dubai for 12 days over the festive period. I expect it will not feel very Christmassy because of the heat. But I don't mind because it is freezing cold and miserable in the UK and I will be spending Christmas Day by the swimming pool."

But it is not just escapism that brings travellers to the UAE for Christmas. Many people see the occasion as a rare opportunity to spend time with their loved ones.

Mohammad and Aida Othman, both in their 80s, are travelling from Lebanon to spend Christmas with their extended family in the UAE.

Taking a break

Mohammad said: "The main reason we come to the UAE for Christmas is to see our grandchildren. But it is also nice to get a break from the cold weather in Lebanon.

"The UAE is a great place for us to hold a family reunion as half our family lives in Dubai. There are lots of things to see and do such as shopping, the desert, the parks, Global Village and Al Ain Zoo.

"The weather is also good for doing all those things whereas in Lebanon it mostly rains. My grandson, who is nine-years-old, is also looking forward to the visit."

Everado Rodriguez, from Mexico, is coming to the UAE to spend the festive season in the desert, but will also ensure he sees some snow while in Dubai.

"I'm looking forward to being in the desert dunes, as well as hit the ski dubai slopes," said Rodriguez, who is primarily coming to the UAE to visit friends and experience the country's culture.

He also hopes to visit Dubai's shopping malls, aquariums and major monuments in the city.