Dubai with festivities feels like something you’d read about in a book. The whole city lights up and buzzes with festive energy. Thinking of visiting? This season is the best time to be here.
Winter Markets and Outdoor Festivities
In December, Dubai really comes alive. The winter markets pose a fascinating contrast to the usual desert city attractions. Festive stalls, hot chocolate stands, handmade crafts, and live music make the atmosphere all cosy – so much so you forget you’re in the middle of the desert.
Markets by the beach and the marina do an excellent job of attracting crowds. What can you expect to find in these cheery marketplaces? Pop-ups, season-themed events, food trucks, and family-friendly shows. Even if you aren’t keen on buying anything, they’re worth visiting.
Here are a few names to keep in mind:
- Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace
- Winter City at Expo City Dubai
- Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
- Ripe Market
Beaches
Visitors adore Dubai’s beaches, and they get much more beautiful in December. The usual heat has eased up, the waters are calmer, and the sun-seeking, cold-escaping crowds are a delight to be around.
You can spend hours lying on the soft sand or swimming in the warm water. Water sports are big here too – paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and flyboarding are among the best things to do in Dubai.
A seasoned traveller’s list would include:
- Kite Beach
- Sunset Beach
- Palm West Beach
Speaking of sun and sand, if you imagine yourself walking down to the beach every chance you get, JA Beach Hotel by JA Resorts & Hotels is a smart accommodation choice.
Dining and Beachside Restaurants
Dubai’s food scene is often part of traveller conversations. In December, it becomes even better. Thanks to the subdued heat, outdoor dining is much more appealing to travellers than usual. Picture yourself sitting by the water, digging into a plate of delicious seafood and grilled meats, with the warm breeze and the sound of the ocean for company.
Beachfront areas in the city are home to restaurants serving both local and international cuisines, attracting foodies determined to try it all. Sunset is the best time to dine by the beach, backdropped by a golden coastline and a sky streaked with pink and gold.
Desert Escapes
It’d be a shame to leave Dubai without experiencing the desert, the thing that makes Dubai stand out among other destinations.
Are you all about adventure? Plenty awaits you here, including dune bashing and quad biking. What if you’re the more sit-back-and-enjoy-the-quiet type? You have a place in the desert too – desert camps offer barbecues, live music, stargazing, and traditional performances.
The weather at night is cool and crisp, so bring something to wrap yourself in.
Old Dubai
Dubai’s skyscrapers make headlines around the world, but Old Dubai is where you discover the soul of the city. The cool weather in December makes it an absolute delight to walk around the place.
The narrow lanes of Al Fahidi and souks filled with spices are part of Dubai’s Bedouin character. Want to try some activity? Take an abra ride across Dubai Creek.
Don’t forget to stop by the little cafés and shops, where the owners love to chat to travellers. You can also sample some real Emirati food in Old Dubai.
Fireworks and Festive Light Shows
If you plan your visit around late December, you’ll see some of the best fireworks and light shows you’ll ever see. Waterfronts, beaches, and major attractions all light up at night. If you don’t like being around big crowds, you should be able to find a quiet place a bit away from the loud chatter.
Huge light installations, illuminated trees, festive sculptures, and themed displays are all part of Dubai’s festive spirit:
- Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai: This is the big one. You can watch the fireworks from Dubai Mall promenade, Burj Park, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard.
- The Palm Jumeirah: Palm West Beach is one of the nicest, least chaotic places to watch the fireworks.
- Dubai Marina: The best views are from Marina Walk, Pier 7 waterfront area, and the marina promenade.
- Global Village: You don’t find the typical NYE crowd here, but nightly themed fireworks, LED decorations, huge funfair-style light installations make for the perfect family night out.
Shopping
It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is, shopping in Dubai is a must. The shopping scene here is eclectic, with high-end malls, local boutiques, outdoor markets, and artisan stalls.
The big shopping season starts around December too, so you can shop more and spend less thanks to all the deals and discounts.
Must-visits:
- The Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- City Walk
- Ibn Battuta Mall
- Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai in the Season
Dubai delights visitors no matter the month, but the city puts on its festive robes in December. With food, fireworks, light shows, desert fun, beach adventure, and shopping, Dubai invites you over for Christmas and New Year’s.
It’s not too late; go ahead and book that flight!
