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DUBAI is one of the dream destinations for many people. It is famous for its luxurious shopping malls, ultra-modern architecture and vibrant nightlife. It is no wonder that this city is considered the best holiday destination for Christmas and New Year.
Christmas vacations in Dubai offer a mix of luxurious experiences, from snow and Santa Claus for a white Christmas atmosphere, to festive shows, shopping, beach parties and more. Here are some of the must-visit destinations as reported by Travel and Leisure Asia.
1. Christmas musical performances
Dubai Opera will present a classic ballet performance, The Nutcracker, from December 19 to 22, 2024. The performance will last two hours and fifteen minutes and tickets start at AED 290 (IDR1.2 million).
Meanwhile, the Zabeel Theatre at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel is hosting a musical performance of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Tourists can watch the Grinch story from December 20 to 24 for 1 hour and 30 minutes with a ticket price of AED200 (IDR884,000).
2. Winter wonderland at Ski Dubai
Although Dubai’s hot climate means there is no chance of natural snow, this does not stop tourists from enjoying the white Christmas atmosphere. Dubai Ski presents Winter Wonderland from December 1-25, 2024. This ski entertainment zone is covered with 22,500 square meters of snow.
Tourists can ride the ski lift, climb to the top of the large snow-covered slopes and practice snowboarding, skiing and bobsledding. Admission prices start from AED160 (IDR707,000), from 10 am to 11 pm.Visit Santa’s Grotto at Dubai Ice Rink
Another destination to feel the cold is Dubai Ice Rink. Apart from skating or learning ice hockey, this rink has created Santa’s Grotto for Christmas. Located in Dubai Mall, tickets for Ice Rink start at AED99 (IDR437,000).
3. Global Village
Dubai’s iconic seasonal theme park is one of the highlights of the Christmas celebrations. There are more than 90 cultures and more than 200 restaurants in this large theme park. There is also a special party where the Christmas tree is lit at night. Tickets start at AED25 (IDR110,000), with separate entrance fees for each activity. The park is open from 4pm to 1am.
4. Shopping at Dubai Christmas Markets
Dubai also has several Christmas markets. Starting with the Dubai Shopping Festival, which will take place from December 6, 2024 to January 2025. Every day will be filled with massive offers and in the evening there will be a drone show and fireworks.
The Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market will be open from December 6 to December 31, 2024. It will spread cheer with a stunning display of gingerbread houses, Santa’s sleigh and North Pole, live performances and festive stalls.
Meanwhile, Dubai Media City’s Winter District Amphitheatre will run from December 14 to December 22, 2024. With festive stalls, Santa Claus will greet visitors. Al Habtoor City’s Winter Garden will also be open until the end of January, with food trucks, entertainment and more. Expo City Dubai will also host a Christmas Market from December 6 to 31.
5. Brunch Packages
Several restaurants in Dubai offer brunch packages with menus that include everything from pancakes and eggs to mimosas. These include Sushisamba, Hutong, Nikki Beach Club, La Dame de Pic, FIVE Palm, Armani/Mediterraneo, Asia Asia, Boardwalk, Cinque, Jun’s and Koko Bay. [sources/photo special]
