December in Dubai is a special time of the year, marked by cooler weather and a festive atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for visitors and locals alike. The month is packed with festivities, from holiday celebrations to cultural exhibitions and concerts, making it a vibrant and exciting time to explore Dubai.
If you're curious about what Dubai has to offer this December, you're in for a treat. The city transforms into a hub of excitement and celebration, with a wide range of activities that cater to all interests. Here's a glimpse of what you can look forward to:
Imaginary Art Show @ KRASTO, Address Downtown Hotel
📆 01 - 31 December
KRASOTA, a storyteller restaurant in Dubai, offers a unique gastronomic trip that combines immersive scenography, visual art, and haute cuisine. This theater-restaurant experience, crafted by Boris Zarkov, Anton Nenashev, and Michelin-starred chef Vladimir Mukhin, creates a distinctive dining event through the Medici effect, blending ideas and cultures.
The Imaginary Art show is an AI-empowered multisensory experience, featuring eight courses inspired by masterpieces from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Guests begin their journey in an opulent pink hall with appetizers, then move to a private room for a 20-guest intimate dining experience. Each course is paired with storytelling about the artwork it represents.
Additionally, the Imaginary Future show presents seven futuristic scenarios through storytelling, pixel-perfect animation, and interactive games, accompanied by a seven-course futuristic menu.
Located at The Address Downtown Hotel, KRASOTA's Imaginary Art Show is set in an auditorium with curved walls, featuring a large circular table for 20 diners. The 3D multimedia performance includes projections of paintings by contemporary artists, with each course on the menu dedicated to an artwork.
Highlight dishes include the Artichoke Curry, inspired by Nicholas Roerich's Himalayas, and the Black Cod, Plum and Fig, inspired by Ivan Aivazovsky's The 9th Wave. The show includes an Amuse Bouche, eight courses, eight visual acts, and two signature drink pairings.
Ceylon Food Festival @ Zabeel Park Amphitheatre
📆 02 - 03 December
This event, supported by the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Dubai, and the Sri Lankan Embassy in UAE, and endorsed by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, aims to showcase Sri Lankan cuisine and promote culinary tourism. The festival will feature a broad network of suppliers and experts in the food and beverage industry, along with live music and performances by a popular Sri Lankan dance troupe.
Sri Lankan cuisine has a unique taste and form of its own which differentiates from other food cultures and we see tremendous destination value in promoting them overseas,
said Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of the Sri Lankan Tourism Promotion Bureau.
Visitors can expect to meet renowned chefs, influencers, and food vloggers, and enjoy a variety of Sri Lankan traditional and unique food varieties. The event also includes non-food stands, live bands, DJ music, and activities for kids.
The festival's main goal is to introduce Sri Lankan cuisine to the international community in Dubai, highlighting the country's unique culinary culture and ingredients like cinnamon and tea. Activities include cultural performances, live music, and a non-food market fair, offering a comprehensive experience of Sri Lankan culture and hospitality.
Dubai Shopping Festival
📆 08 December - 14 January
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is set to take place from December 8, 2023, to January 14, 2024, promising 38 days of exceptional shopping, entertainment, and experiences. This festival is a highlight in Dubai's calendar, featuring amazing shopping deals, raffle draws, competitions, concerts, and events. The DSF will transform the city into a festive hub with outdoor markets, pop-up events, and incredible shopping moments at malls and lifestyle destinations.
- DSF Drones Show: From December 10, 2023, to January 14, 2024, this free event features a breathtaking drone display at Bluewaters and The Beach. There will be two shows each night, showcasing stories that blend fairytales with Emirati culture and illustrating Dubai's future.
- Dubai Lights: The city will be adorned with lighting installations from international artists, transforming landmarks in Al Seef and the Gold Souk.
- Hotel Getaway Packages: Numerous hotels across the city offer special packages for a range of budgets, perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations.
- Culinary Delights: The festival is a foodie's paradise with an array of dining options throughout the city, from high-end restaurants to cosy eateries.
- Vibrant Outdoor Markets: Enjoy Dubai's pleasant winter weather at various outdoor markets featuring unique fashion, jewellery, and delicious food offerings.
- Entertainment: The festival will be packed with live concerts, comedy shows, and performances from local and international artists.
- Raffles: The DSF Mega Raffle and the ENOC Grand Raffle offer chances to win cars, cash prizes, and more.
This year's DSF promises an experience that is bigger, better, and more spectacular, with something for everyone to enjoy in Dubai's wonderful winter weather. The event is a perfect opportunity to explore the city's attractions, shop for unbeatable deals, and make unforgettable memories.
Kid LAROI and Jonas Blue @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 08 December
Known for his electrifying energy and popular tracks, The Kid LAROI, whose real name is Charlton Howard, has gained a massive global fanbase. His viral hit "Stay" notably spent 17 weeks on the Hot 100 list, including six weeks at the number one spot. In this one-night-only event, he will be performing a variety of his biggest hits, including "Thousand Miles" and "Without You."
Joining him will be English DJ Jonas Blue, renowned for singles like "Fast Car", "Perfect Strangers", "Rise", "Mama", and "Polaroid". This collaboration promises a night of high-energy performances and memorable music, making it a must-see event for fans and those looking to experience an exhilarating live music atmosphere.
The event generates excitement, with Virgin Radio set to announce more artists. Attendees can look forward to a night filled with The Kid LAROI's passionate music and Jonas Blue's popular tracks.
SOLE DXB @ Dubai Design District
📆 08 - 10 December
Sole DXB is a renowned lifestyle and street-culture festival. This year's edition features a packed lineup of live performances, DJ sets, sports tournaments, workshops, and talks. The festival will be headlined by Busta Rhymes and will celebrate Hip Hop 50, in partnership with Mass Appeal, led by rap star Nas.
The event will showcase a diverse array of artists including Jadakiss, Tobe Nwigwe, Big Daddy Kane, Soulja, and the Sudanese-American artist ODDISEE. Attendees can also enjoy performances from DJ Shadow, Lil Zey, Nadine El Roubi, Sampa the Great, Omar Offendum, and Ma-Beyn, along with other regional talents.
Sole DXB 2023 promises to offer a rich blend of music, culture, and art, with activations and programs featuring designers, creatives, and brands from across the region. The festival will also host a competitive basketball tournament, making it a comprehensive celebration of youth and contemporary culture.
Bongo's Bingo Christmas Special @ Zero Gravity
📆 08 December
This winter, a unique event will combine the thrill of a Queen tribute with the festive spirit of Christmas. Attendees will get to sing along to Queen's greatest hits and classic rock songs, as well as enjoy a range of Christmas tunes.
Known as Bongo’s Bingo, this event is more than just a music show; it's a social extravaganza featuring traditional bingo, dance-offs, rave intervals, and audience participation. With a mix of nostalgia and escapism, guests can win a variety of quirky prizes, from giant pink unicorns to karaoke machines.
Endless Fun, End of Season Parties @ Movenpick JBR Dubai
📆 08 - 09 December
The Selfdrive Laughter Factory is set to bring a memorable night of comedy to the UAE in December 2023, ideal for both friends and office parties. The lineup includes some of the funniest comics globally, promising non-stop laughter. The event will feature a blend of laughing, drinking, eating, and cavorting, ensuring a festive and entertaining atmosphere.
Headlining the event is Kelsey De Almeida, known for his slick, sharp, and brutally honest humour. He is joined by Mark Maier, a mentor to Catherine Tate and an accomplished actor seen in BBC sitcoms and films. Imah, an award-winning stand-up comedian, brings her unique style after leaving her 9-5 job for comedy. Maher Barwany, with his distinctive take on life in the UAE, adds local flavour to the lineup.
Dear Santa @ Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
📆 08 - 09 December
This festive tale is perfect for young children, offering an engaging introduction to theatre with its holiday songs and audience interaction. The story follows Santa and his cheeky elf as they strive to deliver the perfect Christmas present to Sarah. The show promises laughter, fun, and the charm of Rod Campbell's storytelling, making it an ideal Christmas treat for families.
Additionally, after each show, there will be an opportunity for the audience to meet Santa, adding to the magical experience for the little ones.
Is this it? by Kanan Gill @ Dubai Auditorium, Dubai College
📆 10 December
For those who haven't had the chance to see this performer live or have been referred by a friend, here's what to expect: This is an English stand-up comedy show that delves into the thought-provoking theme of "Is This It?"
“Two years of touring would leave anyone with tall tales for telling and for Gill, things were no different–except that the comic turned introspective”
Blippi - The Wonderful World Tour @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 12 - 13 December
Known for his educational content, Blippi, along with special guest Meekah, will engage young audiences in a live show filled with learning, audience interaction, and catchy songs and dances. The characters of Blippi and Meekah will be portrayed by professional stage performers.
This entertaining live show is a great opportunity for children to experience the excitement of Blippi's adventures in a unique and interactive setting.
Peter Pan @ Theatre by Q2
📆 15 - 26 December
This faithful adaptation features Peter Pan, the boy who never grows up, as he leads Wendy, Michael, John Darling, and the iconic Tinkerbell on an adventure to Neverland. There, they encounter the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily and her Indians, bumbling Pirates, and the villainous Captain Hook. The show combines experienced live actors, a captivating musical score, and a state-of-the-art LED back wall to create stunning scenic backdrops.
Designed to captivate both young audiences and the young at heart, the show is a delightful blend of laughter, excitement, and fantasy.
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