Dubai is a cultural mosaic that wholeheartedly embraces the beliefs and diversity of its residents and visitors. And the city’s fantastic Christmas markets are a testament to its exuberant fusion of traditions. Dubai in December is simply magical with refreshing weather, and these markets add to its festive spirit. So, visit these markets; they are more than a place for Christmas shopping in Dubai. You can soak in its vibrant settings, adorned by sparkling lights, crafty treats, and a generous scattering of cheerful moments. Continue reading this post to acquaint yourself with the best Christmas markets and other outdoor winter spots in Dubai.
Top Christmas Markets in Dubai
Winter District at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
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It is hard to beat the pulsating ambiance of the Winter District for an authentic Christmas celebration with stunning decorations, Christmas trees, lighting, and various merchandise (to ease your holiday shopping). And this year, it is extra special with its new location in Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. As an all-age attraction, your younger ones can engage in various craft sessions and even get a face painting!
2024 Dates: December 14 to 22
Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
Cost: Free to enter
Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace Dubai
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Picture yourself clicking fantastic pictures against a giant Christmas tree and tasting the finest treats. That’s what you can look forward to on your visit to this place. Make sure you come here hungry to check out the food stalls and relish the tastiest hot chocolate, pastries, and other delights to your heart’s desire. It has also lined up a spectrum of live entertainment for people of all age groups.
2024 Dates: November 1 to January 31
Location: Habtoor Palace Dubai
Cost: AED 25 (redeemable)
Winter Wonderland at Expo City
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Most bona fide Christmas activities and attractions await you as the exciting Winter Wonderland prepares to arrive for its third edition. Yes, witness the legendary Expo City transformed into a festive haven, with snowfall, a giant Christmas tree, amusing ziplines, live performances, and, of course, Christmas-specific treats like mince pies, gingerbread cookies, and mulled drinks, to name a few. What’s more, you will even find here a classic red letter-to-Santa spot. That’s not all; little ones will be delighted as Al Wasl Plaza becomes a whimsical toy destination, thanks to its collaboration with Toys R us.
2024 Dates: December 6 to 31
Location: Expo City
Cost: AED 40; free entry for kids under five years
Christmas Market and Festival at Jumeirah Golf Estates
Hoping to have wholesome Christmas fun and entertainment with all members of your family (including adorable pets)? Attending Feastival at Jumeirah Golf Estates is one of the best things to do in Dubai during Christmas. Meet Santa, enter the snow fight zone, admire captivating tree lighting, shop for some distinct items in the Christmas Market, and let your kids make the most of the soft play area. And you read it right-you can bring your dogs too; they can participate in hay bale racing and display their skills at the fun dog show.
2024 Dates: Yet to be announced
Location: Jumeirah Golf Estates
Cost: Free to Enter
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
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Madinat Jumeirah, with its world-class accommodations, stunning waterfront attractions, and a traditional-style souk, is one of Dubai’s most popular attractions. But it gets even better with a splendid makeover during Christmas. Come to Madinat Jumeirah Fort Island in December, offering everything to experience the Christmas effervescence across its 1,750-square-meter space with a 36-foot, decorated Christmas tree. Take an abra ride, try bungee jumping, board the North Pole train, enjoy a Venetian carousel ride, and most of all, relish a wide range of food and drinks.
2024 Dates: December 13 to January 5, 2025
Location: Madinat Jumeirah
Cost: Free to Enter
Check out more exciting venues to enrich your Christmas shopping and revelries!
Global Village Dubai
It is unthinkable to miss out on Global Village on a list like this, as it is one of the top seasonal sights that typify Dubai’s awe-inspiring multicultural landscape. So, if you are in Dubai during Christmas or between October and April, be sure to get yourself down to this spot. Over 35 pavilions representing the culture, cuisine, and other specialties of 90-plus countries make it a perfect pitstop for Christmas shopping and entertainment.
The Ripe Market
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Dubai’s famous Ripe Market runs from October annually and will be at its festive best in December. It is where you can source fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables from local farmers, check out stalls (selling homeware, unique jewelry, apparel, etc.) revel in live entertainment, and participate in a plethora of workshops ideal for all age groups. It is set outdoors at Dubai’s Police Academy Park, adding to its vibrancy. Children under 12 years can enter here for free, but a nominal charge of AED 5 applies to adults.
Covent Garden Market
The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) turns into a lively European-style market every year during the winter months. Its magnificent location against the beach and invigorating breeze make it a must-experience during your December trip to Dubai. Don’t miss this chance to taste delicious culinary specialties and own some pretty stuff to boost your home décor or wardrobe.
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Foodies traveling to Dubai for Christmas celebrations must definitely tour this outdoor food market at Dubai Festival City Mall. From American, Mexican, and Italian to Japanese and Korean, be ready to delight your taste buds with cuisines from different parts of the world. But it is not all about food; watch live comedy shows and immerse yourself in DJ performances.
Kite Beach Market
The picturesque environs of Kite Beach make for a delightful ground for this seaside market. Browse about 20 outdoor stalls, showcasing some unique and charming items. Scenic beach views with a laid-back setting are sure to liven up your time here.
MUST-EXPERIENCE DUBAI ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES FOR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING & FUN
Join Santa at Ski Dubai:
Dubai boasts extraordinary attractions at every turn, and one of the unmissable among them during the Christmas festivities is Ski Dubai. This year-round winter attraction transforms into a magical escape in December, with a visit from the cheerful Santa, adding to your snowy amusement and adventure here. When it becomes too chilly, warm up with a cozy cup of chocolate at its alpine-style café.
That’s not all; you can immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a giant Christmas tree and other decorations, indulge in endless shopping, and treat your taste buds to the most delightful Christmas specialties, thanks to its locations in the Mall of the Emirates.
Shop, Skate, & Savor at the Dubai Mall:
The Dubai Mall is another must-visit destination in the city for pure Christmas fun. Head to the Ice Rink on its ground level for an authentic ice skating session across its Olympic-sized ice floor. Pair it with exceptional shopping and dining experiences, with a smorgasbord of options occupying this mega mall. Step outside to watch the special Christmas-inspired Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa light shows during the festive season.
Watch The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera:
This festive season lets you enjoy various exciting performances, concerts, etc. One of the ultimate venues to see them is the Dubai Opera in Downtown Dubai, which is also home to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Visit here between December 19 and 22 to watch The Nutcracker, a classic ballet performance from the renowned Russian composer Tchaikovsky.
Dubai Shopping Festival:
Christmas celebrations in Dubai align with the much-awaited Dubai Shopping Festival, which is all set to run from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025. So, what better way to amp up your holiday shopping and entertainment? Enjoy unbelievable discounts of up to 70 to 80% on your favorite brands, take in exclusive shows and performances, and even enter raffle draws to win prizes worth millions.
Enjoy a Christmas-Themed Accommodation:
Don’t just admire the Christmas decorations; sink into the festivities by staying in one of Dubai’s iconic hotels to heighten your experience. Book accommodation at the legendary Burj Al Arab, the majestic Atlantis, The Palm, or even the towering Burj Khalifa. They all ensure you take your Christmas celebrations in Dubai to the next level.
Try Our Christmas Gift Ideas
Conclusion
Christmas-exclusive adornments take over almost all of Dubai’s famous malls, shops, and iconic landmarks in December. But, nothing would probably get you into the Christmas spirit more than a Christmas market. Are you ready? Take some inspo from the above list of Christmas markets Dubai, and you’re ready to don your Santa hat!
