Exciting Christmas Activities for Kids in Dubai
Christmas is a magical time, especially for children. Dubai adds to this magic by creating festive experiences that every child dreams of. Snowy adventures, enchanting markets, creative workshops, and dazzling decorations turn the city into a winter wonderland. Kids can meet Santa, enjoy playful activities, and dive into the spirit of the season at some of the best Christmas spots.
This guide highlights the top places and activities in Dubai where children can truly feel the magic of Christmas and create memories to last a lifetime.
Winter City at Expo City
Why Kids Will Love It:
This magical experience turns kids into Santa’s little helpers. From baking cookies to decorating gingerbread houses, every activity is designed to spark creativity and joy. Helping Mrs. Claus organize the nice and naughty lists adds a playful touch, while the cozy Gingerbread House is the perfect spot to share laughter with the family.
What to Expect:
The Toy Factory comes alive with festive cheer, offering daily events like tree lighting and sing-alongs. Children can dive into hands-on fun with Build-A-Bear workshops and ornament crafting. The North Pole Market adds a sweet twist with delicious holiday treats, making it an exciting adventure for the whole family.
Other Details:
- Location: Al Wasl Avenue – Dubai
- Timings: Daily from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Dates: December 6th to 31st, 2024
- Entry Fees: Starts at AED 40 per person
Santa's Village at Ski Dubai
Why Kids Will Love It:
The idea of playing in real snow and meeting Santa Claus is enough to make any child’s heart race with excitement. Kids will love the chance to step into a winter wonderland, receive a gift from Santa’s elves, and hold onto a photo that captures this special holiday moment. The snowy magic and cozy treats make it an unforgettable adventure.
What to Expect:
Ski Dubai offers a full Christmas experience in a snow-covered setting. Families can explore snowy play zones, meet Santa Claus in his festive grotto, and enjoy a heartwarming cup of their signature hot chocolate. Kids will receive a beautifully printed photo of their visit with Santa and a surprise gift, making the experience both festive and personal.
Other Details:
- Location: Mall of the Emirates - Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Barsha 1 – Dubai
- Timings: Daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Dates: December 1 to 25, 2024
- Entry Fees: Starts from AED 160 per person
Gingerbread House Decoration at Cucina, The Palm
Why Kids Will Love It:
Decorating gingerbread houses is a holiday classic that brings out every child’s creativity. Kids will love the chance to get hands-on with icing, candies, and sprinkles as they create their own edible masterpieces. The festive setting and friendly atmosphere make it an activity filled with laughter and holiday cheer.
What to Expect:
Cucina at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah offers a fun and interactive gingerbread-making experience for kids of all ages. While children get busy decorating their gingerbread creations, families can enjoy the warm, festive ambiance and indulge in a delicious seasonal menu featuring turkey, seafood, and holiday drinks. The activity is thoughtfully paired with festive treats like hot chocolate, ensuring everyone feels the holiday magic.
Other Details:
- Location: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
- Timings: December 1 to 31, 2024
- 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Entry Fees:
- AED 340 per person (includes festive food and gingerbread house making).
- AED 145 per person (includes gingerbread house making and hot chocolate).
Kids Festive Baking Class at The H Dubai
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will be thrilled to don their chef jackets and dive into a world of baking magic. From decorating gingerbread cookies to crafting chocolate pizzas, each class lets them explore their creativity while making delicious festive treats. It’s a hands-on experience they’ll remember long after the holidays.
What to Expect:
Kids will step into a mini-kitchen setup where they can explore new recipes every day. From puff pastries to gingerbread cookies, each session is designed to be engaging and festive. They’ll receive a personalized chef jacket, adding an extra touch of excitement to the experience. Meanwhile, parents can relax at The Gallery Lounge or Santai Spa, making it a delightful outing for everyone.
- Daily Treats:
- Monday: Puff pastry with berries
- Tuesday: Gingerbread cookies
- Wednesday: Christmas poppers decoration
- Thursday: Christmas fruits and chocolate pizza
- Friday: Gingerbread House
Other Details:
- Location: The H Dubai
- Dates: Monday, December 16 to Friday, December 20, 2024
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
- Entry Fees:
- AED 499 for 5 classes (includes a personalized chef jacket)
- AED 119 per class
British Mums Kids Christmas Workshop
Why Kids Will Love It:
This workshop is all about festive creativity and fun. Kids will love making glittery snow globes, painting nutcrackers, and crafting their very own Christmas slime. It’s a chance for them to unleash their imagination while diving into the festive spirit. The variety of activities ensures there’s something for every little artist to enjoy.
What to Expect:
Set in the cozy Hillhouse Brasserie, this workshop offers a day filled with hands-on fun. Children can choose from activities like Nutcracker Painting (AED 28), Christmas Slime making (AED 42), or crafting magical Glitter Snow Globes and Christmas Baubles (starting from AED 30). They’re welcome to try as many as they like, and parents can even shop Toddle’s craft kits for gifts or stocking fillers. It’s a perfect balance of festive fun for kids and a relaxing catch-up for mums.
Other Details:
- Location: Hillhouse Brasserie, Dubai Hills
- Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2024
- Timings: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Entry Fees: Prices start at AED 28 per activity
Sleepover at Legoland
Why Kids Will Love It:
Imagine spending a night in a LEGO®-themed room, waking up to a personalized letter from LEGO Santa, and finding a special LEGO gift waiting just for you. Kids will be thrilled by the festive decorations, interactive activities, and the chance to explore both the LEGOLAND Theme Park and Water Park. It's a dream come true for any young LEGO enthusiast.
What to Expect:
The Santa Sleepover package includes an overnight stay in a festively decorated LEGO-themed room, breakfast at Bricks Family Restaurant, and exclusive holiday treats. Children can participate in activities like gingerbread house decorating, meet-and-greets with LEGO Santa, and enjoy the Festive Bricktacular event featuring LEGO Christmas tree lighting and live shows. Guests also receive a Christmas souvenir refillable drinks bottle with free refills throughout the day.
Other Details:
- Location: LEGOLAND® Dubai Resort, Parks & Resorts – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai
- Dates: December 7, 2024, to January 7, 2025
- Entry Fees: Packages start at AED 1,100; includes park access and festive activities
The Nutcracker At Dubai Opera
Why Kids Will Love It:
The enchanting tale of "The Nutcracker" brings a world of magic and wonder to life. Children will be captivated by the graceful dancers, vibrant costumes, and the thrilling journey of Clara as she ventures through fantastical realms. The live orchestral music adds an extra layer of excitement, making it a memorable experience for young audiences.
What to Expect:
Performed by the esteemed Astana Opera ballet and orchestra, this rendition of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet is a feast for the senses. Audiences can expect stunning choreography, elaborate set designs, and a captivating storyline that follows Clara's adventures with the Nutcracker Prince. The performance is designed to immerse viewers in a festive atmosphere, filled with dancing snowflakes, battling toy soldiers, and the delightful Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Other Details:
- Location: Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai
- Timings: Multiple showtimes between December 19 and 22, 2024
- Dates: December 19 to 22, 2024
- Entry Fees: Tickets start at AED 290 per person; suitable for children aged 4 and above
The Grotto at Dubai Mall
Why Kids Will Love It:
The Grotto offers a chance for kids to dive into a world of holiday magic. The joy of walking through a candy-themed wonderland, meeting cheerful elves, and posting a letter directly to Santa creates excitement that every child dreams of during Christmas. The experience of receiving a personalized gift from Santa adds a touch of wonder that kids will cherish.
What to Expect:
This festive journey begins in Candy Cane Land, surrounded by glowing decorations and larger-than-life candy canes. Kids can explore the enchanting forest, where playful elves guide them through snowy trails and fun-filled challenges. In the Merry Mailroom, little ones can drop off their letters before meeting Santa in his cozy cabin for a photo and a special keepsake gift to take home.
Other Details:
- Location: Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Mall
- Dates: December 6, 2024, to January 5, 2025
- Timings: Daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Entry Fees: AED 149 per child (includes gift), AED 99 per accompanying adult (no gift). Babies under 12 months enter free (no gift).
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Why Kids Will Love It:
The festive market at Madinat Jumeirah is like stepping into a Christmas storybook. Kids will enjoy riding the charming Venetian carousel, taking magical abra rides with Santa, and decorating gingerbread houses. There’s plenty of excitement with activities like bungee jumping and train rides, making it a place full of fun and festive cheer.
What to Expect:
This market is set on Fort Island, surrounded by the beautiful waterways of Madinat Jumeirah. A 36-foot Christmas tree sparkles at the center, adding to the festive charm. Families can explore wooden chalets offering seasonal crafts and treats while enjoying live music and entertainment. Kids can join arts and crafts sessions, hop on the North Pole train ride, and meet Santa during his abra journeys.
Other Details:
- Location: Fort Island, Madinat Jumeirah
- Dates: December 6 to 31, 2024
- Timings:
- Monday to Thursday: 3:00 PM to late
- Friday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to late
- Entry Fees: Free entry; some activities may have separate charges
The Christmas season in Dubai offers kids endless opportunities to create, laugh, and make lasting memories. With every festive activity, they not only express their creativity but also share moments of joy and friendship. It’s a time to celebrate the magic of the season, leaving little hearts full of warmth and happiness to treasure forever.