How to Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s in Dubai

Dubai starts its holiday season early so you can enjoy the Christmas vibes ahead of the big day. Look out for the city’s holiday markets, festive tree-lighting ceremonies and outdoor carol concerts, checking event dates before you visit. 

Holiday music lovers can check Dubai Opera’s December programme for festive performances. And for a family treat, look out for a Christmas pantomime at one of the amazing local theatres. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season with joy and laughter!

Madinat Jumeirah’s Festive Market runs from 4 to 27 December 2026 at Fort Island, with festive shopping, live music, decorated abra rides and family activities. Entrance is free on a first come, first served basis; check charges for individual activities before your visit.

Explore our guide to celebrating Christmas in Dubai for more festive ideas.

The days between Christmas and New Year are a chance to enjoy more of Dubai without rushing from one activity to the next.

Spend an afternoon shopping at Dubai Mall, with time to browse for gifts or choose something for yourself. Another day could take you to Dubai Creek and the traditional markets, giving you a different view of the city beyond its modern landmarks.

Travelling with children may mean balancing longer outings with shorter activities and breaks back at the hotel. Choose one main attraction each day and leave the rest flexible, so there’s room for a late start or a change of plans.

Keep your daytime schedule lighter on New Year’s Eve. A leisurely morning and a nearby outing will leave you time to get ready for the evening.

A hotel near Dubai Metro makes a useful base for sightseeing during your festive stay. Think about the places you want to visit most often and choose a location with connections that suit your itinerary.

Premier Inn Dubai Barsha Heights offers access to Dubai Internet City Metro Station on the Red Line, which serves destinations including Mall of the Emirates and Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall. Compare our hotels near Dubai Metro to find a location that works for your holiday plans.

Consider the whole journey when planning a day out, including the walk to the station and any onward travel to your destination. Grouping nearby attractions into the same day can help you spend more time enjoying them and less time travelling across the city.

Spending Christmas with loved ones in Dubai is easier when you have a place to stay nearby. Choosing a hotel close to their home lets you fit visits around family routines while keeping your own space to rest.

Our family rooms accommodate up to two adults and two children aged 15 and under. Larger families can choose interconnecting rooms, which provide two connected rooms for up to six guests, including a maximum of four adults. Children must be aged 15 or under. Check availability at your chosen hotel when booking.

Consider your sleeping arrangements before reserving, particularly when travelling with grandparents or older children. Having the right room setup can make a longer holiday more comfortable and give everyone space to unwind after spending the day together.

Late arrivals, early departures and overnight stopovers can all shape your festive travel plans. An airport hotel gives you somewhere to rest before continuing your holiday or heading home.

Premier Inn Dubai International Airport offers a convenient base near DXB, with a complimentary 24-hour shuttle serving Terminals 1 and 3. Check the latest pickup details and make sure the service suits your arrival or departure terminal.

Keep your flight times in mind when choosing your booking dates. An arrival after midnight or a departure early in the morning may affect which night you need to reserve. Allow time for airport procedures and transfers before arranging any sightseeing during a short stopover.

Premier Inn is here to make your holidays in Dubai merry and bright. With cosy rooms, friendly service and locations close to all the action, we’ve got everything you need to enjoy a holiday season that’s as comfortable as it is unforgettable.

Plan early for the best available rates for your Christmas 2026 break and New Year celebrations welcoming 2027. Enjoy applicable book direct benefits, including free early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability and terms.

Book your stay with Premier Inn and make this Christmas and New Year’s one to remember in sunny Dubai.