Christmas under the palm trees has its own charm. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are aglow with lights, markets and places for everyone to enjoy the festive atmosphere in December.
It may sound unconventional - Christmas in the desert, under palm trees and with temperatures around 25 degrees. Yet the UAE proves that the Christmas spirit can be magical even without snow. Each emirate has its own style, and if you're in Dubai or Abu Dhabi during December, you're in for a surprisingly rich selection of places to soak up the 'winter' atmosphere... just in sandals.
Below you'll find tips on the best markets, light installations and places for kids and adults to enjoy.
Winter City v Expo City Dubai
Expo City has a gift for creating an atmosphere that touches you - purely, gently and naturally. In December, it transforms into a winter town, blending European tradition with modern Dubai. It's exactly the kind of place where you slow down for a moment, take a breath and let yourself be carried away.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
If there's one place where Christmas in the UAE has a "soul", it's Madinat. The canals, the lights, the smell of spices, the wooden stalls... and behind it all, the majestic Burj Al Arab. It's as if a European Christmas market meets the Orient - and something like a little theatre for the eyes is created. It's romantic, it's vibrant, and yet it has an elegance you won't find elsewhere.
Dubai Miracle Garden: the Winter Light Garden
Miracle Garden can do one thing: impress. In December, a little more. Light tunnels, installations from another universe and colours that light up every evening await you. It's not a traditional Christmas market, but an experience. And sometimes that's exactly what you need. There's something for the little ones and adults alike.
Dubai Festival City: Light & Laser Show
An elegant version of a Christmas program - less fairy tale, more modern.
The evening laser show has an energy that draws you in, smaller markets, a waterfront where you can go for dinner.
Winter Garden v Al Habtoor City
Quiet (by Dubai standards), stylish and beautifully lit place. The atmosphere is relaxed, with music, stalls, food trucks and decorations that are subtle and tasteful. Perfect if you want Christmas cheer but don't want to push through the crowds.
Yas Winter Fest in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has its own pace - slower, quieter, but still elegant.
Yas Winter Fest is a combination of markets, live performances, decorations and a beautifully landscaped promenade.
After sunset, the whole of Yas Bay looks like a movie set.
And if you like lights, you definitely shouldn't skip these parts:
✨ Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, the promenades around the fountains - it's all in full force in December.
Lighted palm trees, giant decorations, luxurious atmosphere = the perfect evening stroll.
✨ Bluewaters Island
Modern, photogenic, with a beautiful sea view.
Bluewaters has its own style - a little futuristic, a little romantic.
✨ City Walk
Every year a different concept, always refined and visually thoughtful.
For design lovers a great choice.
✨ Global Village
A multicultural world in one space.
Lots of lights, lots of music, lots of experiences.
Christmas in the Emirates is different - but maybe that's why it's so beautiful. It's about atmosphere, about light, about space to breathe. Moments to pause, even when everything around you is shining. Whether you live here, work here or are just visiting, December in the UAE has something worth experiencing.
More posts from our blog
Dubai’s Flying Taxis: The City Launches Its First Vertiport Network and Prepares for a Mobility Revolution
Dubai is launching flying taxis and unveils four official vertiports. Service begins in 2026, bringing a faster and m...
Where to Celebrate the UAE’s 54th National Day: Fireworks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Dubai and Abu Dhabi will light up on December 2 with fireworks, drone shows and cultural events. Here’s your guide to...
UAE Flag Day: The Day the Flag Speaks for the Nation
Every year on November 3rd, the UAE turns red, white, green, and black. Here, the flag is more than a symbol – it’s a...