One of the most anticipated times of the year for South Africans is the December festive season. It’s more than just a Christmas and “New Year’s” break, it’s a time for family, good food and attending as many events and attractions as possible.
This year, why not celebrate the holiday festive season in the desert city of Dubai! The city comes to life with classic festive shows, Christmas trees and lights, and winter markets that make the festive season magical. Kids and those young at heart can expect a winter wonderland filled with laughter, adventure and festive cheer.
The Winter District at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers returns from 13 – 28 December, while Expo City Dubai’s Winter City or Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market run from 5 – 31 December. Each market offers a perfect blend of fun, shopping, and seasonal cheer for families – from bouncing on inflatables and solving puzzles in escape rooms to crafting holiday treasures in interactive workshops.
Nothing expresses the magical atmosphere of the festive season like extraordinary displays of Christmas trees and lights. From McGettigan’s JLT tree-lighting ceremony on 19 November, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort’s on 6 December, to Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s grand choir ceremony on 12 December, visitors can admire elegantly decorated trees and themed displays across Dubai.
A hearty Christmas feast can only be amplified by dining at one of the many authentic and luxurious restaurants Dubai has on offer. Visitors can expect Christmas-Day brunch, buffet and dinner specials that offer global flavours – with a fusion of Indian, Asian, Mediterranean and Greek cuisine from a curated selection of affordable restaurants including Bla Bla Dubai, Bull and Bear and Mezzerie.
Christmas is all about family-time, and Dubai has an array of wholesome and classic seasonal shows for the whole family to enjoy. Theatre by QE2 will host two shows and a fun-filled baking competition between 6 and 7 December, the wonderful princess classic Cinderella will be on show from 18 – 27 December and Carols by Candlelight will show twice a day from 20 – 24 December.
Dubai adds an exciting dimension to New Year’s Eve and sets the scene for epic celebrations, with all-inclusive dining experiences, parties and firework viewings across the city. For budget-conscious celebrations, visitors can view fireworks from the Dubai Festival City waterfront, Burj Park or Kite Beach for free. Dubai’s Global Village is a suitable fit for families and solo travellers who want a laid-back start to the new year.
McGettigan’s Souk Madinat, Five Iron Golf Dubai and Expo City Dubai’s Al Wasl Plaza – where a live DJ set and midnight countdown precede a spectacular fireworks display – promises visitors an unforgettable crossover into the new year.
