Unwrap the Festive Magic: Top 9 Christmas Markets to Explore in Dubai
The festive season in Dubai is nothing short of magical, with the city coming alive with dazzling lights, twinkling Christmas trees, and the sweet scent of holiday treats filling the air. There's no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by exploring Dubai’s enchanting Christmas markets.
From traditional European-inspired stalls to uniquely Dubai-themed experiences, these markets offer the perfect blend of festive cheer, gourmet delights, and entertainment. Here are the top 9 Christmas markets in Dubai to visit in 2024.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Dubai’s holiday season comes alive at the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market, a magical winter wonderland running until January 12, 2025. With a dazzling 36-foot Christmas tree as its centerpiece, the market brings the magic of the season alive against the stunning backdrop of Madinat Jumeirah’s waterways and the iconic Burj Al Arab.
Families can enjoy a host of exciting activities, from a North Pole train ride and Venetian carousel to a playful snow fight zone and bungee jumping for kids. Live carol singers and a yuletide band fill the air with festive tunes, while seasonal food stalls tempt visitors with mulled drinks, gingerbread cookies, and roasted chestnuts.
Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa at his grotto or take a magical abra ride with him across the serene waters. Free to enter, this festive extravaganza is a must-visit for creating cherished holiday memories.
📍Madinat Jumeirah, Fort Island
📆 December 6, 2024 - January 12, 2025
🕙 Monday - Thursday: Starts from 3 pm ; Friday - Sunday: Starts from noon
🎫 Free entry
Winter City
Winter City is where holiday dreams come to life, transforming into a glittering festive wonderland filled with magic, joy, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family. From December, Santa’s Toy Factory comes alive with the joy of the season, where little helpers can craft toys, decorate cookies, and even sort Santa’s naughty and nice list alongside Mrs. Claus. Drop off heartfelt wishes in Santa’s Letterbox, explore the North Pole Market for delicious treats, and cozy up with festive drinks and warm delights.
The celebration continues with hands-on workshops like Build-A-Bear, Harry Potter by Funko, and gingerbread decorating, ensuring a holiday full of creativity and joy. Don’t miss the enchanting Tree Lighting Ceremony, where one lucky child lights the tree with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Cap it all off with the magical Carols by Candlelight, where live music and stunning performances set the festive mood.
📍Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai
📆 December 6, 2024 - December 31, 2024
🕙 2 pm - 11 pm
🎫 General admission - AED40 (online)/AED50 (counter) ; General admission on festive days (December 20 - December 24) - AED80 (online)/AED90 (counter)
Winter District
Step into the enchanting Winter District at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, running from December 14 to 22, and immerse yourself in a festive wonderland like no other. Twinkling fairy lights, towering Christmas trees, and dazzling décor set the scene for a magical holiday experience for all ages.
Wander through the bustling Christmas market, brimming with handcrafted gifts, local treasures, and delicious seasonal treats. Kids will delight in the snow play area, Santa’s Grotto, and fun workshops, while adults can unwind at the cozy bar lounge with festive drinks and gourmet bites.
Live entertainment, including cheerful carol singers and captivating performances, fills the air with holiday spirit. Mark your calendars and make this heartwarming event part of your 2024 festive season in Dubai.
📍Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
📆 December 14, 2024 - December 22, 2024
🕙 12 pm - 12 am
🎫 Ticket pricing starts from AED25
Winter Garden
Experience the festive magic of Winter Garden, located at Al Habtoor Palace from November 1st, 2024, to January 31st, 2025. This urban oasis transforms the heart of the city into a winter wonderland, offering an immersive experience filled with holiday cheer.
Stroll through the garden’s enchanting pathways with your family and pets, enjoying an array of food stalls serving everything from hot chocolate and gingerbread to savory snacks like shawarma and blue cheese sliders. Delight in live music performances, from retro 80s hits to romantic jazz, adding to the magical ambiance. Children can explore the dedicated play areas, while adults relax at pop-up shops or engage in friendly games of pool.
With spectacular performances, gourmet treats, and the iconic 18-meter Christmas tree, Winter Garden is a celebration of the season that promises unforgettable memories.
📍Al Habtoor City
📆 November 1, 2024 - January 31, 2025
🕙 4 pm - 12 am (weekdays) ; 4 pm to 1 am (weekends)
🎫 Ticket pricing starts from AED25 (fully redeemable)
Al Barari Winter Fest
Step into a winter wonderland at Al Barari’s Winter Fest, where the magic of the season comes to life with a spectacular array of festive activities for all ages. Set amidst the lush greenery of Al Barari, this enchanting celebration features a variety of snowy fun, live entertainment, and holiday-themed attractions.
Enjoy ice skating, explore the 12-meter giant Christmas tree, or embark on a reindeer treasure hunt. Little ones can meet Santa and his elves, while families gather around the cozy outdoor cinema for a heartwarming film. From gingerbread house making to thrilling snow tubing slides, there's something for everyone. With festive food and drinks to savor, along with live performances from figure skaters, DJs, and a live band, Al Barari’s Winter Fest promises an unforgettable holiday experience.
📍Al Barari Playground
📆 December 21, 2024 - December 22, 2024
🕙 12 pm to 10 pm
🎫 Adult entry - AED49 ; Child entry - AED89
Christmas Market Festival City
Celebrate the magic of the season at Dubai Festival City Mall’s Christmas Market from December 8 to January 7. Nestled along the scenic waterfront at the Bay by Social, this candy-themed wonderland promises a delightful blend of holiday cheer and family-friendly activities. Stroll through enchanting decor featuring giant candy canes, gingerbread houses, and sparkling lights, while carolers serenade you with timeless holiday tunes.
Families can indulge in hands-on fun with gingerbread-making workshops, hot chocolate tastings, and exciting kids’ activities. Capture picture-perfect moments at themed photo booths or visit Santa’s grotto for an extra sprinkle of festive magic. The market also features daily live entertainment, interactive performances, and roaming characters like Santa and Mrs. Claus spreading holiday cheer.
📍Dubai Festival City Mall
📆 December 8, 2024 - January 7, 2025
🕙 Monday to Thursday - Starts from 3 pm ; Friday to Sunday - Starts from noon
🎫 Free entry
Winter Fest at JLT Park
Embrace the holiday spirit at the JLT Winter Festival, running from December 14-22 at the JLT Park Amphitheatre. This charming lakeside event promises festive fun for all ages, with free entry for everyone!
Stroll through a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer, vibrant parades, and a festive market brimming with delicious food, drinks, and unique treasures. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa Claus and enjoy the lively craft zones. On December 14 at 5:30 pm, the festivities kicked off with a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, where a 10-meter-tall Christmas tree will glow in all its glory, setting the perfect holiday mood.
📍JLT Park Amphitheatre
📆 December 14, 2024 - December 22, 2024
🕙 4 pm to 9 pm
🎫 Free entry
Global Village Christmas Market
Step into a winter wonderland at the Global Village Christmas Market, running from December 13 to January 5. This festive haven is brimming with holiday cheer, starting with the iconic Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling fairy lights, candy canes, snow, and presents, making it the perfect spot for family photos.
The entire park transforms into a dazzling display of Christmas magic, with stunning decorations and festive touches at every corner. As you wander through Arabian Square, admire the light poles draped in Santa hats, and stroll along Celebration Walk, where reindeer and teddy bears bring extra charm to the holiday atmosphere. Santa’s elves add to the fun with festive flash mobs, dancing to classic Christmas songs and spreading joy to all.
📍Global Village
📆 December 13, 2024 - January 5, 2025
🕙 Sunday to Wednesday - 4 pm to 12 am ; Thursday to Saturday - 4 pm to 1 am
🎫 AED30 (weekends)/AED25 (weekdays)
Al Seef
Al Seef, Dubai’s vibrant waterfront destination, is set to shine like never before this December with its biggest festive season yet. From December 6 to January 19, visitors can indulge in spectacular sights and experiences for all ages. At the heart of the celebrations is a magnificent 39-meter Christmas tree, one of the tallest in the region, which will be lit in a mesmerizing ceremony on December 7, complete with a chance to meet Santa, his elves, and enjoy thrilling stage shows.
Al Seef will also be part of the citywide Dubai Lights, transforming into a wonderland of light installations inspired by the UAE’s pearl diving heritage. The destination’s cultural promenade will host the Al Seef Creek Festival, featuring captivating performances like the Winter Parade and the Harlequin Circus.
📍Al Seef
📆 December 6, 2024 - January 19, 2025
🕙 6 pm to 11 pm
🎫 Free entry