Family-Friendly Christmas Activities in Dubai

Dubai shines during the holiday season and is full of activities to suit everyone's holiday spirit. Nothing is scarce, from decorated Christmas Markets and amazing family musicals to stunning snowy tours and great movie nights. Here are some of the best Christmas activities in Dubai this year, including ticket details, location, and tips to make your experience memorable.

Visit The Grotto at Dubai Mall

You can transport yourself to the north pole anchored at the Dubai Ice Rink, the Dubai Mall. Intended for children and adult Gulliver's travellers, this addition features crisp graphics and playfully ornamented rooms such as Candy Cane Land, the Enchanted Forest and Santa’s Cabin. A Merry Mailroom allows children to drop holiday greeting messages and take pictures with Santa in the magic of Christmas self-portraits. A neon light runs around the whole area, giving the area a festive look, perfect for a family Christmas trip.

Timings: 10 AM to midnight

Tickets: Children are charged 149 AED, but the accompanying adult is charged 99 dirhams. Infants 12 months and below can gain free entry.

Location: Ice Skating Rink, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai

Nearest Metro: Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station is the nearest.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and explore The Dubai Mall’s incredible festive decorations.

Christmas Movie Night at Aura SkyPool

Spend Christmas Eve at Aura Skypool, a sky pool standing on the 50th floor of Palm Tower with an amazing view of the city. This year, the stunning infinity pool will transform into a cinema for screening The Holiday, an all-time favourite Christmas film. Kick off your evening with Christmas-inspired hors d’oeuvres at the Aura Lounge, followed by the movie under the stars at the Palm View deck. While watching it, enjoy a bento box lunch menu fit for the season's celebration. This event is strictly limited to 50 guests, so if you are set on having an exciting evening, do not miss it.

Timings: Hors d’oeuvres at 8:30 PM, film starts at 9:30 PM.

Tickets: Dhs650 per person.

Location: Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah.

Nearest Public Transport Station: Palm Jumeirah

Pro Tip: Book early.

Explore Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets in Dubai are unique, offering everything from festive shopping to fun activities for children.  

Winter City at Expo City Dubai:  

Family favourite, this market turns Al Wasl Plaza into a toy factory, like in Christmas Story. Kids can interact with Santa, participate in various' elf-fueled’ workshops, and even shop at the North Pole Market for excellent gifts. This holiday haven features great food and beautiful lighting.

Entry Fee: Free; workshop fees apply.  

Nearest Metro: Route 2020 to Expo 2020 Station.  

Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market

Located opposite Souk Madinat, this mammoth market offers a snow-fighting area, a Venetian merry-go-round, and the chance to bake gingerbread houses. Brightly decorated with fairy lights and colourful food kiosks, it is a sensory delight for the community.  

Entry Fee: Free

Nearest Bus: Al Sufouh Tram Station, Madinat Jumeirah 

Pro Tip: Visit early evening to enjoy the market’s charm at sunset, and pre-book an Abra ride with Santa for unforgettable festive photos.  

Festive Film and Feast at Teatro Dubai

For an immersive cinematic experience, head to Teatro Dubai at Rotana Towers for Home Alone. This interactive movie evening will also offer a royal masterpiece seven-course menu, including classic perceived Christmas meals and mouth-watering sweets. The place's cosiness is perfect, the decoration compliments the setting, and an atmosphere of classic Christmas nostalgia is guaranteed, along with delicious food.  

Timings: Starts at 7 PM.  

Tickets: Dhs369 per person.  

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road Rotana Towers.  

Nearest Metro: The nearest metro station is Al-Jaddaf.  

Pro Tip: Getting to Teatro early and enjoying an exquisite drink before the event starts is advised.  

White Christmas at Ski Dubai

This year’s extremely snowy winter provokes and amazes even as it mutters: Who says there cannot be snow in the desert? Ski Dubai offers families a white Christmas by providing them with a feeling of snow, decorations, and lively activities. Kids and adults alike are welcome to shake hands with Santa along with gifts or indulge in special hot chocolate while gazing at the snow. Including snowball fights and tobogganing, this is the ideal Christmas holiday for anyone of any age.  

Tickets: For 150 AED. 

Location: Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road.  

Nearest Metro: Mall of the Emirates Station.  

Pro Tip: Bring woollen attire as it is very cold inside. The temperature is around -4 degrees Celsius.  

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr Seuss Drama at Zabeel Theatre

The Zabeel Theatre production of The Grinch in a Musical will again perfectly capture the message of Christmas. With songs like "You’re a Mean One," "Mr. Grinch," and "Welcome Christmas," among others, this is a sure bet for the holidays that all the family will love. Expect a colourful stage and screen, charismatic actors, and a story that reminds us all about the true spirit of Christmas.

Tickets: AED 200 for a bronze category.  

Location: The Zabeel Theatre, The Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel, the Palm Jumeirah.  

Nearest Public Transport: Al Jafiliya Seaside Metro Bus Stop.

Pro Tip: Choose the superior tickets to have a good view of the show.

Conclusion

Christmas in Dubai offers a unique blend of festive cheer and unforgettable experiences, perfect for creating cherished family memories. Embrace the magic, enjoy the warmth of togetherness, and celebrate the season in style. Dubai’s vibrant holiday spirit ensures your Christmas will be truly special.

Related post:  Top Christmas Markets in Dubai to Visit This Year.