December in Dubai is a time of delightful contrasts, where the mild embrace of winter intertwines with the vibrant pulse of festive events. As the year draws to a close, the city transforms into a hub of excitement, offering a plethora of activities that celebrate the holiday spirit.
This year, the December calendar in Dubai is more bustling than ever, overflowing with events that necessitate splitting the month's festivities into two. In this article, we'll concentrate on the latter half of December, providing a sneak peek into the thrilling events and activities that are in store as the month progresses. From dazzling lights to cultural festivities, Dubai in late December is a whirlwind of joy and entertainment.
For insights into what the first half of December had in store, do check out the link provided below.
Focus Content Squad
Beauty & The Beast @ Ballroom, Fairmont - The Palm
📆 14 - 26 December
This December, the Fairmont The Palm in Dubai hosts a fun-filled family pantomime by the Dubai Panto team, featuring a modern twist on the classic tale Beauty and the Beast.
The story, inspired by the 18th-century French fairy tale "La Belle et la Bête," revolves around Prince Beauregarde, who is transformed into a beast by the enchantress Madame Pain Au Chocolat. The curse can only be lifted if he finds true love. The plot thickens when Bella, a young bookworm, becomes a prisoner in the Beast’s castle while searching for her father. With the assistance of her humorous friends French Franc and Dame Tayah Le Sweeft, and despite the schemes of the villainous Gaviscon, Beauty grows to love the Beast.
The pantomime promises laughter, audience participation, and a captivating mix of music, dance, and costumes. Suitable for the entire family, this festive musical production of "Beauty and The Beast" will be performed twice daily leading up to Christmas at the Fairmont The Palm.
Ahlam and Assala live @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 15 December
Experience an unforgettable evening of music at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, where two renowned Arab music divas, Emirati singer Ahlam and Syrian artist Assala, will perform live in 2023.
Ahlam, known for her 14 albums and roles as a TV judge, and Assala, famous for her hit songs like "Law Ta'rafou," will showcase their rich musical heritage.
This special event, part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, is organized by Moments Events in collaboration with Coca-Cola and supported by the Dubai Calendar.
The Nutcracker @ Dubai Opera
📆 15 - 17 December
Dubai Opera hosts a captivating production of Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker," performed by Kazakhstan's esteemed Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of Astana. Under the direction of Yuri Grigorovich and with set designs by Simon Virsaladze, the ballet invites audiences to a magical world.
The performance, featuring elegant choreography and the enchanting music of the State Opera Orchestra, follows the journey of young Clara through dreamlike realms with snowflakes and toy soldiers. This holiday classic is a delightful experience for all ages, promising a memorable celebration of festive wonder at Dubai Opera.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market @ Madinat Jumeirah, Fort Island
📆 15 December
The Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market in Dubai is a must-visit holiday event. This free outdoor Christmas extravaganza features a 36 ft-tall Christmas tree, various seasonal food stalls, and engaging activities for the whole family.
Visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere with live bands playing festive music, shop at pop-up stores showcasing local brands, and experience unique attractions like abra rides with Santa, a Venetian carousel, a four-lane bungee, and a North Pole train for children.
The market is held at the spacious 1,750sqm venue of Madinat Jumeirah, Fort Island.
Winter City @ Expo City Dubai
📆 15 December - 07 January
Expo City Dubai is reviving its popular winter wonderland from December 15 to January 7, transforming Al Wasl Plaza into a festive, snowy Christmas wonderland. This family-friendly event invites visitors to become eco-heroes, engaging in an exciting quest to save the North Pole.
The experience offers a variety of holiday-themed activities, including exploring Santa's grotto and toy factory, Frosty's farmhouse, and Mrs. Claus' bakery. Attendees can follow clues, tackle challenges, and interact with beloved Christmas characters like Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The event not only provides fun and entertainment but also imparts important messages about sustainability and caring for the planet, all in the spirit of the holiday season.
Ibiza Orchestra Experience @ Bla Bla Beach Club
📆 16 December
Bla Bla hosts the Ibiza Orchestra this December for the first time, offering an ultimate orchestra experience. The event features the iconic 26-piece orchestra performing a selection of the greatest hits from over 30 years of music originating from Ibiza. Attendees can expect to hear tracks from renowned artists like 808 State, Massive Attack, Ian Van Dahl, Daft Punk, Robert Miles, Energy 52, Tiesto, Fatboy Slim, Prodigy, Candi Staton, Faithless, and many more, all set against a spectacular backdrop.
Christmas at the Movies @ Al Baraha Ballroom, Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City
📆 17, 20, 22, & 24 December
Christmas at the Movies – A Live Concert is a festive live music show featuring beloved Christmas movie songs. This family-friendly concert creates a merry journey through the holiday season with well-known lyrics and a fantastic live band. The show includes hits like "It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" from Home Alone 2, "Believe" from Polar Express, and "All I Want for Christmas is You!" from Love Actually, among others. Attendees can sing along and create lasting memories.
A Night with Matteo Bocelli @ Dubai Opera
📆 21 December
Matteo Bocelli, the talented Italian singer and son of renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, will perform at the Dubai Opera. Known for his smooth vocals and piano skills, Matteo gained recognition with "Fall on Me," a duet with his father.
He will showcase songs from his debut album "Matteo," released in September 2023, featuring a mix of English and Italian tracks with collaborations from artists like Ed Sheeran and PARISI. The concert promises a blend of his hits and new music, providing a melodious evening for attendees.
Speed Music Fest: Ft Jonita Gandhi and Ali Zafar @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 23 December
The Speed Music Fest, part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, debuts at the Coca-Cola Arena with an exciting line-up featuring Ali Zafar and Jonita Gandhi. This concert aims to unite Indian and Pakistani music fans, showcasing Ali Zafar's chart-topping hits and soulful performances, along with Jonita Gandhi's versatile vocal range, covering pop, Bollywood, and classical genres. The event will also feature Dubai-based RJ and vocalist Mariyam Kisat as the opening act.
Imperial Orchestra - Cinema Medley @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 25 December
The Imperial Orchestra will present a Cinema Medley, offering a symphonic journey through some of cinema's most iconic soundtracks. The concert will feature live renditions of music from films such as Star Wars, Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, Interstellar, Batman, Gladiator, The Phantom of the Opera, and Jurassic Park.
Under the baton of conductor Lev Dunaev, 80 musicians will perform legendary scores by composers like Hans Zimmer, John Williams, David Arnold, Ramin Djawadi, and Andrew Lloyd Webber, all accompanied by stunning visual and audio effects.
Elissa, Saif Nabeel, Haifa Wehbe Live @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 28 December
The Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai is set to host a Mega New Year’s Concert featuring Arab music stars Elissa, Haifa Wehbe, and Saif Nabeel, performing together live for the first time.
Organized by PME Entertainment and supported by Dubai Calendar as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, the concert promises a unique experience with each artist accompanied by their own musicians.
Lebanese singer Elissa, known for her emotive vocals and World Music Awards, will share the stage with her compatriot Haifa Wehbe, renowned for her dynamic performances. Iraqi singer Saif Nabeel, famous for his heartfelt ballads, will also perform, ensuring a memorable evening of Arab musical talent.
Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 29 December
Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, the globally acclaimed qawwal and playback singer, is set to perform for a record-breaking sixth time at the Coca-Cola Arena. Known for his soulful qawwalis, ghazals, and Bollywood hits, Rahat will present a unique show not previously seen in Dubai.
With a musical heritage and participation in shows like Coke Studio and MTV Unplugged, he's celebrated with awards like the Mirchi Music Awards and Filmfare Awards. Expect to be captivated by his live renditions of hits like Mann Ki Lagan, Sayonee, Garaj Baras, and Afreen Afreen.
Omar Khairat @ Dubai Opera
📆 29 December
Omar Khairat, the legendary composer, pianist, and conductor known for blending contemporary Arabic melodies with Western styles will perform at the Dubai Opera. Khairat has received over 20 awards and has composed for more than 50 movie soundtracks and TV dramas, spanning genres like jazz, pop, rock, and Middle Eastern music. His concert, featuring captivating compositions like "The Night of Arresting Fatma," showcases his versatility and belief in music's universal appeal. This event offers an extraordinary musical journey, celebrating Khairat's contribution to music and cinema.
Welcome 2024 in style with STING @ Atlantis
📆 31 December
The New Year's Eve Gala Dinner at Atlantis The Palm in Dubai promises an extravagant celebration, headlined by the renowned British musician Sting. Guests can enjoy canapés, Champagne, and a 30-piece live band, followed by Sting performing hits from his solo career and The Police.
The event features a luxury buffet, live cooking stations, unlimited premium drinks, and a spectacular fireworks display. With a masquerade ball theme, the gala offers three packages:
- the Gala Dinner Package at Dhs6,500,
- the Rouge Circle Package at Dhs7,500 for private seating, and
- the Golden Circle Package at Dhs9,500 for prime seating and exclusive amenities
The evening will include a range of activities, from lavish dining to a dedicated kids' zone with various entertainments.
As the curtain falls on another eventful year, Dubai's dazzling array of December events offers something truly special for everyone. So, immerse yourself in the magic of Dubai this December and usher in the new year with joy and wonder.
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