While the UAE is predominantly a Muslim region, other religious festivals are celebrated, including Christmas. Dubai is now a multi-cultural city, and has embraced the bright lights and fun of Christmas with open arms. In the centre of the Dubai Mall at this time of year, you’ll see a huge Christmas tree decorated with lights and tinsel, and all across the city families party, exchanges gifts, and have a special Christmas Day meal.
If you’re staying at the Premier Inn Dubai in December, we’ve got a few tips on how to celebrate Christmas – Dubai style.
Celebrating Chrsitmas in Dubai in 2020? Find out what to expect in the city here.
Getting the Christmas shopping done
Dubai’s malls and shops embrace Christmas, so you’ll find a full choice of seasonal gifts on display, complete with tinsel, baubles, and even some artificial snow. Wafi Mall is the place to head if your children want to see Santa, as the mall’s Grotto is one of the best you’ll see anywhere in the world. Friendly elves entertain the children while they wait for their turn to meet Santa, and you’ll be serenaded by carol singers. The tree is spectacular – try and be there for the turning on of the lights, as it’s a great celebration and not to be missed.
A winter wonderland at Ski Dubai
If you want a little festive snow, head to the Mall of the Emirates and the fabulous Ski Dubai. Open all year round but particularly popular at Christmas, it gives you the chance to ski in the middle of the city. The huge centre offers everything from skiing and snowboarding to encounters with penguins, and snow bullet rides, which are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The centre hires all the kit you’ll need, so just book online, and turn up for a great day on the slopes – with real snow.
Hit the beach
There are very few places in the world you can celebrate Christmas on the beach, and in Dubai you can top up your tan and tuck into a turkey sandwich at the same time. The beach is one of the most popular spots in the city, and even at this time of the year the weather is pleasantly warm and the water is warm enough for swimming.
Wander around the Christmas markets
Germany isn’t the only country to have Christmas or Yule markets – Dubai has plenty too. The festive market at La Farine is always popular, and in previous years has included some wonderfully quirky displays, such as a giant gingerbread house. There’s mulled grape juice on offer, as well as cakes, hot chocolate, and plenty of unique gifts and stocking fillers. Ripe Market is a weekly event, but at Christmas it goes that little bit further with workshops, and some of Santa’s helpers entertaining the crowds.
Head to the theatre
Dubai’s entertainment sector puts on some fantastic concerts all year round, and the festive season is no exception. Whether you want to see a traditional music concert, a pop concert, or some innovative theatre, Dubai has it all. During the Christmas season look out for pantomimes too, which are perfect for the little ones and heaps of fun for the whole family.
Celebrate with the family
Whether you’re at home or joining us here at the Premier Inn Dubai for Christmas, the season is all about being with people you love. If you’re away from home this Christmas, we’ll make sure you have a wonderful celebration filled with love, laughter, and plenty of Christmas cheer.
Latest offers
Book our best festive rates with us, and get great offers on hotel stays in Dubai.