Christmas Holidays in UAE: Celebration Guide & Tips

The Christmas holidays in UAE bring a unique blend of festive cheer, cultural respect, and luxurious celebrations. While the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim-majority country, it is also known for its openness and hospitality to people of all faiths and backgrounds. That is why Christmas is celebrated in a special way, where tradition meets luxury and East meets West.

In this article, we explore how Christmas is celebrated in the UAE, popular places to visit during the holiday season, festive events, shopping experiences, and useful tips for tourists and residents. Whether you are a visitor spending your first Christmas here or a long-time resident, you will find plenty of joy, entertainment, and magic during the festive season.

Why the Christmas Holidays in UAE Are Unique

The UAE is home to millions of expatriates, many of whom come from countries that traditionally celebrate Christmas. The government supports multiculturalism and allows for religious freedom, which is why you will see Christmas decorations in malls, churches open for midnight mass, and themed markets.

What makes it unique

Christmas is not a public holiday for most, but schools and international companies often give time off
Celebrations blend Western traditions with Arabian hospitality
Weather in December is pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor events and gatherings

How Christmas Is Celebrated in the UAE

Even though December 25 is not an official public holiday except sometimes for Christian employees, Christmas is widely celebrated in various forms across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.

Public Spaces and Malls Decorated with Christmas Themes

During the Christmas holidays in UAE, malls like The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Yas Mall transform into winter wonderlands. Visitors will see

Giant Christmas trees
Sparkling lights and garlands
Santa’s Grotto for children
Carol singers and live performances

Christmas Markets and Events

Many hotels and venues organize Christmas markets with traditional food, gifts, and entertainment. Popular events include

Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
A classic European-style market by the water featuring rides, stalls, and seasonal treats.

Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace
Includes live music, food stalls, and holiday-themed activities for families.

Expo City Dubai’s Winter City
A large-scale event offering themed attractions, cultural shows, and festive lighting.

Church Services and Midnight Mass

The UAE allows for freedom of worship, and Christian residents can attend church services during Christmas. Some of the well-known churches are

St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Dubai
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Abu Dhabi
St. Martin’s Anglican Church, Sharjah

Most churches host Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services, carol nights, and nativity plays.

Hotel Festive Packages

Luxury hotels offer Christmas brunches, dinners, and staycation packages. Top hotel picks include

Atlantis, The Palm
Burj Al Arab
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Expect festive meals, family-friendly entertainment, and activities such as cookie decorating and Christmas-themed crafts.

Top Places to Celebrate Christmas in UAE

Here are some of the best places across the Emirates to experience the Christmas holidays in UAE.

Dubai

Dubai Opera
Hosts special Christmas concerts, choirs, and seasonal musicals.

Global Village
Features cultural pavilions, seasonal decorations, and festive treats from around the world.

Ski Dubai
Experience a white Christmas with indoor snow, skiing, and even a Santa meet-and-greet.

Abu Dhabi

The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Offers holiday shopping, family workshops, and seasonal entertainment.

Winter Wonderland at Al Maryah Island
A beautifully designed outdoor market with lights, games, and music.

Saadiyat Island Resorts
Great for peaceful, beachside Christmas retreats with luxurious services.

Sharjah and the Northern Emirates

Sharjah’s Al Majaz Waterfront, Ajman Corniche, and resorts in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah also celebrate with lights, family events, and cultural festivities.

Festive Shopping and Christmas Deals

December is one of the best months for shopping in the UAE. Whether buying gifts, outfits, or electronics, the Christmas holidays in UAE come with generous deals.

What to look for

Dubai Shopping Festival begins in late December with city-wide discounts, raffles, and performances
Mall promotions offer buy-one-get-one-free deals, giveaways, and festive bundles
Local markets and pop-ups feature handmade goods, candles, home décor, and unique Christmas gifts

Christmas Food and Dining in the UAE

Food is central to the holiday experience, and the UAE offers a wide range of options. From traditional Christmas turkey to international festive menus, there is something for everyone.

Dining Options

Christmas Brunches
Most upscale hotels host all-you-can-eat brunches with turkey, roast beef, desserts, and live cooking stations.

Takeaway Turkey Dinners
Many hotels, including The Ritz-Carlton and Waldorf Astoria, offer pre-ordered festive meal packages.

International Cuisine
Restaurants serve festive menus from British, Indian, Italian, and American traditions. Many places also offer halal and vegetarian-friendly versions of traditional dishes.

Travel Tips for Tourists During Christmas Holidays in UAE

If you are visiting during the Christmas holidays in UAE, here are some useful tips.

Travel Tips

Book accommodations and brunches early as December is peak season
The weather is cool and comfortable, ideal for outdoor activities
Use taxis, metros, and ride-hailing apps for transport, but prepare for holiday traffic
Dress modestly and respect local customs even during festive celebrations

Suggested Activities

Watch New Year’s Eve fireworks at Burj Khalifa or Al Majaz Waterfront
Take a desert safari with themed dinners and cultural performances
Enjoy a dhow cruise along Dubai Marina with music and seasonal decor

Respecting Local Culture During Christmas

Although the UAE embraces multicultural events, it is important to respect Islamic values while celebrating.

Things to keep in mind

Dress appropriately in public
Avoid loud celebrations or public displays of affection
Alcohol is permitted only in licensed venues and should be consumed responsibly
Always follow local rules and regulations, especially in public spaces

Christmas Holidays for Families in UAE

Families will find plenty to enjoy during the Christmas holidays in UAE, with activities and events designed for children of all ages.

Activities for Children

Santa’s Village setups in major malls
Outdoor movie nights with Christmas classics
Festive parades and shows at theme parks like Legoland and Motiongate
Ice skating rinks, ornament workshops, and gingerbread house decorating

Holiday Calendar and School Breaks

Most international schools in the UAE offer a two to three-week winter break, allowing time for family holidays or local travel. Many companies provide leave options toward the end of the year, even though Christmas Day may not be a national holiday.

Checklist for Celebrating Christmas in UAE

To make the most of the season, keep this checklist in mind

Book festive brunches or dinners in advance
Shop early to avoid last-minute rushes
Reserve tickets for events and markets ahead of time
Pack warm but modest clothing for cool evenings
Capture moments with decorations and lights across the city

Conclusion: A Magical Christmas Awaits in the UAE

The Christmas holidays in UAE offer a truly unique and joyful experience. With vibrant decorations, international traditions, family-friendly events, and ideal winter weather, the UAE is a wonderful place to enjoy the season.

Whether you are attending a Christmas market in Dubai, relaxing at a beachfront resort in Abu Dhabi, or joining a carol service in Sharjah, the spirit of the holidays is everywhere. Christmas in the UAE is about togetherness, celebration, and experiencing the season in a way that blends global traditions with local elegance.

Plan ahead, celebrate respectfully, and enjoy a memorable Christmas in the United Arab Emirates.

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