Making it Festive in 30 Degrees - Bring The Magic Of The Festive Season To The Desert

There is something wonderfully surreal about celebrating Christmas in flip-flops! While friends back home are shivering in scarves, we’re swapping mulled wine for cocktails and snow for sunshine. But somehow, Dubai makes it work - and not just work, it makes it spectacular.

From snow in the desert to festive feasts under the stars, here’s how to make the season feel every bit as magical (even when it’s 30 degrees outside).

// Visit Santa

Yes, even in the UAE, Santa’s got his suitcase packed. WAFI Mall’s grotto is a long-standing favourite, complete with elves, gifts, and photo ops that could melt even the iciest North Pole heart. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season and get the little ones buzzing with excitement.

// Snow, Penguins & Pure Joy at Ski Dubai

If your Christmas just isn’t complete without a little snow, Ski Dubai has you covered -literally. Throw snowballs, meet penguins and embrace the chill before stepping back into the sunshine. It’s the ultimate winter-meets-desert mashup – and there is also a Santa’s Grotto too, so you can visit the big man himself!

// Start New Traditions

The beauty of being away from home? You get to reinvent Christmas your way. Think BBQs with s’mores around the firepit, or snuggling up with the A/C cranked low, a YouTube fireplace crackling on screen and steaming mugs of hot chocolate in hand. It’s festive - Dubai style.

// Markets, Music & Merriment

From the Madinat Jumeirah Winter Market to the Bab Al Shams Festive Market, Dubai’s holiday pop-ups are pure magic. Twinkling lights, carol singers, craft stalls, and even a few snowflakes - it’s all here. Wander, snack and soak up the sparkle.

// Get Creative at Home

Sometimes, it’s the simple stuff that makes the season feel special. Gather the kids for a messy afternoon of DIY ornaments and festive crafts, bake a batch of cookies (even if half the icing ends up on faces), and let the chaos become the memory.

// Festive Feasts & Tree Lightings

Dubai’s hotels truly understand the assignment when it comes to festive celebrations. Expect the most opulent Christmas brunches (Traiteur being a firm favourite!), carol choirs and beautiful tree lighting ceremonies. It’s Christmas glamour, Dubai-style and a whole load of fun!

// Ice Skating & Sparkly City Nights

End the day gliding across the Dubai Ice Rink, then wander through the malls or Madinat, soaking up the fairy lights and festive music that fill the air. In true Dubai fashion, the city shines brighter than any winter wonderland.

Whether you’re making s’mores under the stars, meeting Santa in the desert, or clinking glasses at a Christmas brunch, the magic of the season isn’t tied to snow. It’s about slowing down, soaking it in and celebrating with the friends who become family who make the city feel like home.