🎄Christmas is coming!!! Here is Dirham Stretcher’s updated list of free or affordable Christmas activities all around the UAE, arranged by date so you can get organized! ✨

Dubai tree lighting ceremonies and Christmas markets 

• Habtoor Palace's Winter Garden

Light Up Winter Garden event on Friday, December 1, from 6-9 pm. Features a grand Christmas tree, Santa visits, holiday entertainment, and children's activities. On December 2, Spectators can enjoy a holiday parade with festive elements and a special appearance by Santa. Tickets to the Winter Garden cost AED 25 per person. In return, you will receive a food and beverage voucher for the same amount which you can use to spend at the food stalls inside the garden.

• JBR Winter Nights: A Festive Cinema Under the Stars: From December 1st to 31st, the JBR Winter Nights bring a festive cheer to Dubai's winter season. Offering free entry, this event is a must-visit for families and film enthusiasts alike. Delight in classic Christmas movies such as "Home Alone" and "The Grinch Stole Christmas" in an enchanting outdoor setting. Alongside the cinema experience, relish live performances, engaging workshops, and a variety of family-centered entertainment. Join the celebration at JBR and immerse yourself in the joy and wonder of the holiday season!

• Holiday Market at Downtown 2023: December 2. A holiday market in historic downtown with vendor booths offering holiday décor, crafts, jewelry, apparel, sweet treats, and free children’s holiday entertainment.

• Festive Enchantment at Happening At The Harbour: This December, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a series of enchanting events. Opens on December 2, 9, and 16 for a magical rendezvous with Santa Claus, capture your snowy moments, engage in creative crafts, and more! Each event starts at 5 pm, with additional sessions at 6 pm and 7 pm.

• WG Christmas Golf Cart Parade 2023: December 2. The 11th Annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade through historic downtown, featuring decorated golf carts.
• Winter Wonderland at The Green Planet: The Green Planet Dubai invites you to a unique Winter Wonderland from December 6th to January 7th. This indoor tropical rainforest transforms its Nature Park into a festive hub with Santa meet-and-greets every weekend, mascot encounters, and children's activities at Santa's workshop. Don't miss the Christmas carols on December 11th and the eco-friendly snowfall throughout the park. Enjoy the festive market on select weekends in December for souvenirs and treats. Entry starts from 155 AED for adults.

• Sweet Celebrations at Wafi City: Dive into a candy wonderland at Wafi City's Sweet Celebrations, starting December 6th, 5-9:30 pm, and continuing daily from 7th to 24th, 8:30 am - 9:30 pm. This magical event, located in the Atrium of Wafi City Mall, invites kids to join Santa and his elves for a delightful holiday experience. Expect a world filled with smiles, sugary moments, and enchanting fun. For the latest details, check Wafi's website.

• Music Monkeys Christmas Event: Delight in a festive morning with Music Monkeys in Dubai, featuring themed sessions, a Santa meet-and-greet with a gift, arts and crafts, and Christmas shopping. Unlimited access to Al Barari Playground is included. The ticket per child-adult pair is 150 AED.

• Santa's Grotto at The Beach JBR: Join in the festive fun at Santa's Grotto, situated across Eggspectation at The Beach JBR, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from December 8th to 25th, starting at 4 pm. Bring your family for a memorable photo opportunity with Santa in his charming grotto. Capture the magic of the season and create lasting memories. Note: A minimum spend of 100 AED is required you can check the list of offers.

• Santa's Secret Island at Bluewaters Dubai: Celebrate Christmas at Bluewaters Dubai from December 9th to 30th, 5 pm to 10 pm. This festive destination offers weekend meet-and-greets with Santa, roaming entertainers, and an array of activities for children including card-making, face painting, and the Rudolph game.

• Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers: From December 14th to January 4th, witness the transformation of the Plaza Terrace at Jumeirah Emirates Towers into a magical Winter District. In collaboration with M2L Concepts, this winter wonderland set against the stunning Museum of the Future features an outdoor market, Santa's grotto, and an array of festive activities. Immerse in the holiday spirit with live music, carolers, and captivating performances. Keep children delighted with face painting, games, and arts and crafts. Entry is free, though some activities and events are chargeable, offering a festive experience for everyone.

• The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi: December 7th, 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Christmas tree lighting and an opportunity to meet Santa.
• Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Homesmiths, Motorcity: Get into the festive spirit with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 7, 2023, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Homesmiths in Motorcity. The event promises a delightful evening with Santa's grand entrance, an opportunity for kids to craft letters to Santa, Elf on the Shelf adventures, and enchanting carol singers. Guests will also enjoy lots of goodie bags and fun, making it an ideal celebration for families and children.

• Le Meridien Christmas Tree Lighting: December 8th at 5:30 pm.
• Cricut Christmas Event: On December 8, 2023, the Cricut Christmas Event at Homesmiths, The Springs Souk, invites attendees to create their own Christmas bauble. This free crafting session is open from 4 pm to 7 pm, offering a unique opportunity for personalized festive decorations.
  

• Christmas at Els Club Dubai:Gather the family for an unforgettable Christmas celebration at Els Club Dubai on December 9th, from 3 pm to 11 pm. This festive event is packed with activities for everyone: kids' fun zones, live music, tempting food stations, beverage deals, bouncy castles, and a vibrant festive market. Don’t miss the highlight - the Christmas tree lighting! Entry is free, with some activities and food & beverage options.

• Christmas Carnival: Join the joyous Christmas Carnival at Town Square Dubai Park on December 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th, from 5-8 PM. This festive celebration, free for all, features Santa visits, parades, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a Christmas market. With children's workshops and a lively carnival atmosphere, it's the perfect family-friendly destination for holiday cheer.

• JLT Winter Festival: happening from December 15-23, 2023. Held at JLT Park, Gate 1, from 4 to 9 pm, this festive event offers an enchanting mix of performances, themed delights, and heartwarming experiences. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland where Dubai's charm shines bright, all with free admission.
  
  

• Christmas Cracker at The Irish Village: Join the festive fun at the Christmas Cracker event on December 17th at Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Stadium. Revel in a stunning performance of Christmas favorites by an 18-piece band. Tickets are 100 AED for adults, with free entry for up to two kids under 16 per adult.

• The Springs Souk - Magical Evening

The Springs Souk hosts a magical evening filled with holiday activities on December 22nd and 23rd, from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm. The event features a Magis Phil Meet & Greet, a Petting Zoo, a Glitter Bar, Carol Singing, Arts and Crafts Workshops, Facepainting and Nail Art, Roaming Entertainment, and an opportunity to Dress, Impress & Win, along with Special Offers.

• Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market: December 15 - January 7. Features a North Pole Train and a Venetian carousel. Free entrance.

• Christmas at Ski Dubai: Events from December 1 to 25. Meet Santa, family meet-and-greet packages, Snow Park & Meet Santa pass, and Breakfast with Santa events available. Tickets start from AED 150.

• Expo City Winter Celebration: December 15 to mid-January at Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai. Features a 52-foot-tall Christmas tree, festive activities, and a focus on sustainability. Entry into Expo City, the winter wonderland, and Santa’s Grotto is AED 25.

• Carols by Candlelight
  Don't miss the magical 'Carols by Candlelight' at Expo City Dubai's Al Wasl Dome, from December 20th to 24th. Last year's dazzling display of Christmas lights set the scene for a truly enchanting experience. Secure your tickets, starting from 75 AED, to ensure a spot at this captivating event, known for selling out fast!

• QE2 Christmas Market: December 15, 10 am - 2 pm. Handmade crafts, Christmas gifts, and festive dinners. Tree Lighting at QE2 on December 8 from 5:30 pm onwards. Entrance is free.

• Global Village Christmas: From December 13, 2020. Celebrations include multicultural experiences, shopping, and entertainment.

Live Shows in Dubai:

• Magic Phil’s Cirque du Silly: Festive family show at Theatre by QE2 on December 9 and December 19. Tickets start from 80 AED.

• Peter Pan - A Journey to Neverland: Running from December 15 to December 26 at Theatre by QE2. Tickets start at 95 AED.

For your upcoming family outing, turn to PlatinumList for booking. Plus, with code DIRHAM10, enjoy a 10% discount - a little gift from DS to make your family adventures more budget-friendly.

• Dear Santa Show: An interactive children's show at Zabeel Theatre. Four shows across December 8 and December 9. Tickets start from 150 AED.

• Beauty and the Beast

A pantomime at Fairmont The Palm from December 14 to December 26. Tickets start at 75 ED.

Abu Dhabi tree lighting ceremonies

• Saadiyat Beach Club Christmas Tree Lighting: December 3, 6 PM - 10 PM at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. Features festive tree lighting, a live Christmas choir, a BBQ, and a visit from Santa. Prices: AED 220 for ages five to 12, AED 120 for children under four (free). Location: Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.

• Christmas Tree Lighting at Beach Rotana: Scheduled for the first week of December, featuring a 33-foot tree adorned in red and gold. Date: December 6, from 5 PM onwards. Entry is free.

• Conrad Etihad Towers Festive Celebrations: The annual Tree Lighting ceremony on December 8, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, in the Lobby Lounge, including music, seasonal drinks, and holiday treats. Free entry.

• Grand Hyatt Christmas Events: Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Grand Lobby on December 8th, starting at 6:00 PM, with festive treats and carolers. Free Entry.

• Abu Dhabi Golf Club's Falcon Terrace: Winter Market and Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on December 9 at 6:30 PM. Includes a Best Christmas Booth competition, Santa Photo Booth, and live performances.

• Emirates Palace Christmas Tree Lighting: The ceremony on December 9 at 6 PM features a 42-foot tree, valued at over $11 million, adorned in gold and precious gems, accompanied by a live Christmas choir. Location: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi.

• Sofitel Christmas Tree Lighting: The event features a live choir and a visit from Santa Claus. Date: December 6; Timing: 6 PM - 7 PM. Location: Sofitel lobby area.

• Yas Links Christmas Tree Lighting: This mid-December event includes the lighting of a Christmas tree, festive treats, and activities. Date: December 9. Time: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM. Location: Yas Islands, Abu Dhabi. Entry is Free.

Abu Dhabi Markets

• Winter Wonderland at Al Maryah Island: Set on the Al Maryah Islands promenade outside the Galleria Mall, between the Four Seasons and Rosewood Hotel waterfront. Offers exciting shows and performances, activities like a tube slide, snow zone, and Christmas craft stations. Features food stalls with Christmas treats, live performances, juggling, and singing.  Timings: December 9 – 31, 2023. Free entry. Location: Al Maryah Island waterfront, Abu Dhabi.

• Abu Dhabi Yas Winter Fest

The 5-day Abu Dhabi Yas Winter Fest takes place from December 6th to 10th at Gateway Park South. Offering festive experiences for all ages, tickets are priced at AED 25 for adults and AED 15 for children if booked in advance, with an additional AED 5 for on-the-door purchases.

• Ferrari World at Christmas: Enjoy the Italian Winterfest at Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi, Activities include an Ice Skating show, treasure hunting at “Winterfest,” mini-golf, and craft sessions at the Gingerbread factory. Enjoy live entertainment with music bands and elves. Dates: December 8, 2023, to January 7, 2024. Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

• Yas Marina & Yas Bay Waterfront: After the traditional tree lighting on December 8, a month-long festive extravaganza begins. Features a modern Christmas tree, Santa’s Post Office, diverse eateries, Snowflake Lane, Winter Market, Santa’s Grotto, story readings, and elf meet-and-greets. Yas Marina transforms with candy canes, lights, and snow globes, plus a weekend festive parade from 15:00 to 20:00.

• Abu Dhabi Mall: Last year's markets offered handcrafted goods and Christmas ornaments by local artists and merchants, sales, children's activities, and a chance to meet Santa. Updates on this year’s events are pending. Location: Al Zahiya, Abu Dhabi.

• Galleria Mall: Known for festive decorations, the Galleria Mall will have Santa visiting from December 9th, starting at 10 am, with a special event at 6 pm. Timings: December 9 – 24. Location: Galleria Mall.

• Warner Bros World at Christmas: Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi turns into a winter-themed park with festive lights, dancing, ice skating at a Gotham-themed rink, and rides. Dates: November 12 to January 8. Tickets start from 345 AED. Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.