Best Places To Visit In Dubai During Christmas & New Year’s Eve

Dubai is turned into a spectacular vision with beautiful decorations, Christmas markets, extravagant celebrations, and amazing fireworks. Whatever the case, be it a local or a traveller, one will surely find magical holiday experiences in Dubai.​

Wondering how to spend Christmas 2025 and New Year’s Eve 2026 in the city? No need to fret! There’s a comprehensive guide we have prepared that would help you avoid missing out on any of the festive activities that Dubai has to offer. So, let’s go into the details of the awesome activities, whooping dining experiences and the best places to visit why Dubai is considered the best place to celebrate the festive seasons.

Why Dubai for Christmas 2025 and New Year’s Eve 2026?

Globally, there is no better place filled with sky-piercing structures and unlimited entertainment than the Desert City. It is safe to say that the holidays are taken a notch higher. The festive season 2025-2026 kicks off from late November through early January, with decorations lighting up every corner of the city. One gets to see palm trees adorned with lights, large Christmas trees in hotels and malls singing and filling the place with lots of cheerful holiday spirit to everyone around.​

There is no doubt that there is more. It is safe to say that Dubai’s distinct mixture of culture, luxury and excitement makes it a perfect place to visit for the celebrations of Christmas 2025 and New Year’s Eve 2026. It doesn’t matter whether you are looking for snow-covered Christmas or lavish new year’s eve celebration, this city comes with everything, starting in ski resorts to stunning beach fronts. Let’s discover where there is a possibility to immerse into the holiday spirit.​

Christmas in Dubai 2025: Where to Experience the Festive Magic

Christmas Festivities at Dubai Mall

When discussing Christmas in Dubai 2025, one cannot ignore the incredible festive activities of the Dubai Mall. This year, the mall features the stunning Dior Festive Tree, a brilliant celebration of the festive season adorned with luxury brand aesthetics. Picture this—roses, peacocks, stars and other beauty flashing in front of you - simply a dream run for an Instagrammer!​

However, apart from the breathtaking tree, the Dubai Mall also boasts of a number of festive activities such as visiting Santa in his cave and listening to some of the evergreen carols performed live by singers. Visitors can even go to the Dubai Aquarium and enjoy the views of the ocean that is in a holiday mood with a number of holiday songs! Seasonal entertainers, the seasonal bazaar and many other Christmas-oriented decorations inside the mall are features that make this place a paradise for a Christmas lover.​

Insider Tip: In order to beat the crowds at the Dubai Mall, one should arrive in the morning or early afternoon. This will also enable one to take some breathtaking pictures as there will be no disturbance caused by scores of hundreds of people in the background!

Global Village Christmas Wonderland 2025

As an existing top tourist destination, Global Village transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland from December 10-28, 2025. The highlight is a towering 21-metre Festive Tree, illuminated during a spectacular Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 10, complete with fireworks and a drone show lighting up the Dubai skies. Once you enter this place, you see twinkling lights, astonishing Christmas decor, and other beautiful winter display scenes.​

Here, you can ride a cheerful train, engage in making crafts in seasonal workshops, or allow your children to become elves for a while at Santa’s Toy Factory. Experience LED circus shows, traditional dance performances from various cultures, and the mesmerizing Dragon Laser Fountain Show.​​

In search of delicious festive snacks? Global Village combines over 80 cultures in one location, hence enjoy cuisines from around the globe during the December 2025 holiday period. Be sure to hang around for the evening tree-lighting ceremony – it is pure holiday magic!​

Budget Tip: Global Village offers discounted entry on weekdays, so consider visiting in the middle of the week for the best value.

Ski Dubai: A Winter Wonderland

Anyone who ever feels nostalgic about the cold weather should visit Ski Dubai because it offers genuine snow right where it is hottest – in the desert! Every year, the Christmas 2025 season brings snow; a Santa Claus’ Grotto’ into the resort creating a festive atmosphere. Activities such as friendly snowboarding competitions, tobogganing, or just having a hot chocolate as it snows indoors.

During the winter season, festive activities bring joy to children and there is no greater joy than meeting Santa in a winter wonderland or a snowman in Dubai’s snowy retreat. This is a surreal and yet a wonderful way to get into the festive spirit.

Dining & Shopping Spectaculars: Indulge in Christmas Feasts and Holiday Shopping

Christmas 2025 is all about celebration and feasting delicious meals and hunting for the right gifts. The emphasis on holiday indulgence in Dubai is to an entirely different level given the state-of-the-art amenities.​

Dine Under the World’s Tallest Christmas Tree at Kempinski Hotel

At the Kempinski Hotel, enjoy a sumptuous festive meal beneath the world tallest indoor Christmas tree measuring more than 100 feet high. Surrounded by snow capped pine trees, beautiful lights and warm log cabins, Christmas 2025 is simply perfect at Kempinski with its six festive dining experiences.

Picture enjoying fantastic feasts of whole lamb roasts, honey-glazed hams, and rich holiday treats amidst fairy lights. And to add more fun to the festive mood, there are always hot chocolates for the little children. It’s really a one of a kind experience!

An Underwater Christmas at Dubai Aquarium

If you are looking for a unique dining experience during the holiday season 2025, visit the Dubai Aquarium and enjoy a meal while surrounded by fishes. The setup of this underwater ambience will leave you spellbound while you enjoy a sumptuous Christmas spread with eye-catching ceiling to floor tanks with sharks, rays and tropical fishes.

When it comes to roasting turkey meat or decorating gingerbread houses, this interactive dining experience guarantees a wonderful family Christmas 2025.

Christmas Shopping Spree in Dubai’s Glamorous Malls

Dubai’s malls come alive during the holiday season 2025 with its charming festive markets, seasonal offers, and extravagant decor that turns these shopping centers into a shopper’s dream. Whether it is finding the ideal Christmas present or indulging oneself in some retail therapy, shopping in Dubai is worth experiencing.​

The Mall of the Emirates becomes a winter paradise complete with the halls decorated in a winter forest theme. On the other hand, The Dubai Mall becomes animated or rather ‘magical’ with over the top décor and Christmas shows. So basically, you will find everything that you need to cross all the items in your festive shopping list.​

Christmas Concerts & Shows: Feel the Festive Spirit

If you are a fan of music and performance art, then there are plenty of holiday-oriented concerts and events that take place in Dubai during the festive period December 2025.​

Rock Around the Christmas Tree at Dubai Festival City Mall

The second tallest Christmas tree, measuring 14 meters, is also located at the Dubai Festival City Mall. Besides that, the mall organizes evening concerts with local and international artists throughout December 2025. What better way than that to usher the festive season!​

Holiday Classics at Dubai Opera

If you are looking for a more classical approach to Christmas 2025, consider visiting the Dubai Opera where a succession of Christmas concert evenings is taking place. Performances include “The Nutcracker on Ice” and intimate Candlelight Christmas Concerts at luxury hotels. The atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of an orchestra and choir performing well-loved Christmas songs such as Silent Night and Hallelujah Chorus, which is ideal for the festive period.​

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Dubai: Where to Party into 2026

The end of the year and the arrival of 2026 in Dubai is legendary, to say the least. Be it the fireworks at the Burj Khalifa or the swanky beaches; this city knows how to host a party. This is where you should go to enjoy the most epic NYE 2026 celebrations:​

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Dubai: Where to Experience the Ultimate Celebration

Burj Khalifa 8-Day New Year Extravaganza with Shah Rukh Khan

The crown jewel of Dubai’s NYE 2026 celebrations is Emaar’s announcement of an eight-day extravaganza from December 31, 2025, to January 7, 2026. centered around the Burj Khalifa. Indeed, it’s impossible to write any New Year’s Eve 2026 Dubai guide without reference to this spectacular event.​

Burj Park will be the heart of the action, offering a ticketed experience with a special Bollywood touch curated in collaboration with Frontstage, part of Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment. Expect blockbuster energy with live performances, colorful parades, and a festival atmosphere that brings the spirit of Indian cinema to Dubai’s most famous backdrop.​

A grand parade will sweep through Downtown Dubai, featuring huge floats, illuminated puppets, and performers celebrating the city’s creativity and cultural diversity. The city’s skyline will come alive nightly through awe-inspiring lighting, drone shows, and cinematic choreography streamed to millions around the world.​

• Ticket Price: AED 950 for adults and AED 550 for children aged 5 to 12, with free access for kids under five​
• Best Time to Visit: Entry opens at noon on December 31, with celebrations starting from 5 PM onwards​
• Must-See Highlights: Shah Rukh Khan’s Bollywood-themed celebration, eight-day festival from December 31 to January 7, multi-sensory shows featuring fireworks, live performances, aerial displays, and stunning visual effects​
• Insider Tip: Book tickets in advance at mydubainewyear.emaar.com as this exclusive experience is expected to sell out quickly. Roads close around 4 PM, so arrive early to secure your spot.​

Atlantis The Palm: Maroon 5 New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner 2026

If you are looking for a place to host a grand NYE 2026 celebration, then Atlantis The Palm is the ultimate choice. Following star-studded performances from Sting in 2023 and Lionel Richie in 2024, Atlantis welcomes Grammy Award-winning pop icons Maroon 5 to headline the highly anticipated New Year’s Eve 2026 Gala Dinner.​

With this year’s theme, ‘Winter Wonderland’, the evening promises award-winning cuisine, enchanted entertainment, and a night to remember. Maroon 5 will take to the stage in a spectacular open-air performance under the stars, treating guests to chart-topping hits like “Moves Like Jagger”, “She Will Be Loved”, “This Love”, “Payphone”, “Maps” and many more.​

Set on a custom-built deck beneath the stars with panoramic views of Palm Island and the glittering Dubai skyline, guests will be transported into a world of frosted elegance. The evening culminates in a dazzling fireworks display that spans from Atlantis The Palm to Atlantis The Royal.​

• Ticket Price: Packages start from AED 1,500 for standard seating; premium seating and VIP packages available​
• Best Time to Visit: Festivities begin at 6:00 PM with canapés, welcome drinks, and captivating roaming entertainment​
• Must-See Highlights: Maroon 5 live performance, 30-piece live band, free-flowing Perrier-Jouët Champagne and unlimited premium beverages, lavish buffet featuring lobster and caviar, spectacular fireworks over The Palm​
• Kids Zone: The Asateer Tent transforms into a dedicated kids’ party zone featuring a giant slide, bouncy castle, outdoor cinema, game stalls, and festive activities​
• Insider Tip: Book premium seating in advance for the best views of both Maroon 5’s performance and the fireworks finale.​

AURA SKYPOOL: 360-Degree Dubai Skyline NYE 2026 Experience

Ring in 2026 at AURA SKYPOOL with breathtaking 360-degree views of Dubai’s skyline, live performances, and unlimited Perrier-Jouët Champagne. This exclusive experience runs from 8 PM to 1 AM on December 31, 2025.​

Dance your way into 2026 to vibrant beats from resident DJs, and be captivated by sensational live performances, including saxophonists, violinists, percussionists, singers, and dancers. Indulge in an exquisite selection of AURA’s signature dishes with free-flowing Perrier-Jouët Brut NV Champagne and premium beverages.​

• Ticket Price: Set-sharing menu with free-flowing Perrier-Jouët Champagne, premium spirits, wine, and cocktails; upgrade to Perrier-Jouët Blanson Rose NV for additional AED 1,000 per person​
• Best Time to Visit: 8 PM on December 31, 2025​
• Must-See Highlights: World’s highest 360-degree infinity pool, live band performances, saxophonists, violinists, gourmet dining, panoramic fireworks views​
• Insider Tip: This sky-high venue offers unobstructed views of multiple fireworks displays across Dubai simultaneously.​

Dubai Marina VIP Dinner Cruise NYE 2026

A VIP dhow cruise ride through the Marina region is perfect to welcome 2026. The luxurious New Year VIP Dinner Cruise Marina includes sightseeing, lavish dinner, premium beverages, and exclusive access to mesmerizing fireworks across Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, Bluewaters, JBR, and Marina.​

Enjoy a premium buffet dinner consisting of international vegetarian and non-vegetarian items, New Year special cake-cutting ceremony, premium drinks from the open bar, and live DJ performances.​

• Ticket Price: Packages vary; includes unlimited soft drinks, welcome drinks, and party favors​
• Departure Point: Deira Creek opposite Deira Twin Towers, Baniyas Road​
• Must-See Highlights: Traditional Tanura dance performances, live DJ, international gala buffet, non-alcoholic champagne, special cake-cutting ceremony, panoramic views of Burj Khalifa fireworks from the water​
• Insider Tip: Book early as these cruises offer prime viewing positions for multiple fireworks displays across Dubai’s waterfront.​

The Pointe Palm Jumeirah New Year’s Eve 2026

The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah caters to those who would like to celebrate in a laid-back yet impressive environment. This waterfront destination puts on an extravagant fireworks display on New Year’s Eve, synced to the fountain show.​

• Ticket Price: Free entry, but book a restaurant for premium views (restaurant prices vary)
• Best Time to Visit: Arrive before 8 PM to find a spot along the promenade
• Must-See Highlights: Stunning fountain show, live music, and fireworks with views of Atlantis and Palm Jumeirah​
• Insider Tip: For an exceptional fireworks display and to steer clear of mass gathering, take a dhow cruise from The Pointe.

Expo City Dubai New Year’s Eve 2026 Family Celebration

Expo City Dubai continues as a premier family-friendly destination for New Year’s Eve 2026. Al Wasl Plaza features a special children’s countdown at 9 PM, followed by confetti celebrations, kids’ music playlists, and dazzling projections on the Al Wasl Dome. A second countdown and spectacular fireworks display takes place at midnight.​

• Ticket Price: Starting from AED 150​
• Best Time to Visit: Entry opens from 5 PM onwards​
• Must-See Highlights: Dual countdown celebrations (9 PM for kids, midnight for adults), Al Wasl Dome projections, and family-oriented fireworks​
• Insider Tip: Book tickets in advance as this family-friendly NYE venue sells out quickly.

Dubai Fountain New Year’s Eve 2026 Special Show

The Dubai Fountain, one of the most visited places in Dubai, has its own special New Year’s Eve show. The 900-feet fountain’s water dances are synchronized with live music, offering a mind-blowing experience. As midnight passes, the fountains erupt in an amazing display of water jets accompanied by the Burj Khalifa fireworks.​

• Ticket Price: AED 750–2,000 for special dining packages with front-row views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner bookings start from 8 PM for the best seats
• Must-See Highlights: Rooftop dining, panoramic views of the skyline, and world-class Burj Khalifa fireworks
• Insider Tip: Opt for a terrace location for unobstructed viewing of the fireworks display.

Al Seef New Year’s Eve 2026 Heritage Celebration

Al Seef offers a unique New Year 2026 celebration set within Dubai’s heritage district. The fireworks are framed by traditional architecture, restored waterfront buildings, and wooden dhows along Dubai Creek. Waterfront restaurants like Skafos (Mediterranean cuisine) and ILA (Arabic cuisine) provide excellent viewing spots.​

• Ticket Price: Free entry; restaurant reservations recommended
• Best Time to Visit: 7 PM to secure waterfront dining spots
• Must-See Highlights: Old-world charm combined with modern fireworks, scenic Dubai Creek views, cultural ambience​
• Insider Tip: This location is ideal for visitors who prefer a relaxed, culturally rich atmosphere to welcome 2026.

JBR and The Beach New Year’s Eve 2026

The Beach, located directly across from Jumeirah Beach Residence, hosts one of the city’s most vibrant waterfront celebrations. Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2026 right on the sand with colorful fireworks, or book a table at popular restaurants including Catch22 and eateries at Pavilion at The Beach. Alternatively, watch the spectacular display from a marine taxi across the water.​

• Ticket Price: Free beach access; restaurant bookings vary
• Best Time to Visit: 7 PM to secure beachfront spots
• Must-See Highlights: Beachfront fireworks, lively waterfront atmosphere, diverse dining options​
• Insider Tip: Arrive early to claim prime viewing spots on the sand.

Dubai Desert Safari New Year’s Eve 2026

Make sure to go for a Dubai Desert Safari on New Year’s Eve for an experience worth remembering! Away from the hustle bustle of the city, join the golden dunes for an evening full of fun and Arabic traditions. This usually comprises dune bashing, BBQ dinner, belly dancing and other forms of entertainment under the stars. And when it strikes midnight, enjoy the night sky filled with fireworks in the midst of the deserts. It is a spectacular and adventurous way to usher in 2026.

• Ticket Price: AED 400–900 depending on the package (includes dinner, entertainment, and fireworks)
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon until midnight for the full desert experience, including dune bashing and camel rides
• Must-See Highlights: Belly dancing, fire shows, and fireworks in the tranquility of the desert

Pro Tip: Book a premium package with overnight camping to wake up to the first sunrise of 2026 in the desert.

Global Village New Year’s Eve 2026 Multi-Cultural Celebration

Global Village offers an affordable New Year’s Eve full of fireworks, live shows and food from different parts of the world. There is entertainment for children including merry-go-rounds and video games. Just before the clock strikes twelve, beautiful family-oriented fireworks fill the sky.

• Ticket Price: AED 25
• Best Time to Visit: 7 PM
• Must-See Highlights: Multiple countdowns celebrating midnight in various time zones, fireworks, cultural performances from over 80 countries
• Insider Tip: Visit the international food pavilions for a global feast before the countdown to 2026.

Dubai Opera New Year’s Eve 2026 Gala

Experience a sophisticated welcome to 2026 with soulful music nights at Dubai Opera. The venue hosts special New Year’s Eve performances featuring orchestra and choir renditions of beloved classics.​

• Best Time to Visit: Evening performances typically start at 7 PM
• Must-See Highlights: Classical music performances, elegant atmosphere, refined New Year countdown
• Insider Tip: Book tickets well in advance for this cultural NYE 2026 experience.

New Year’s Eve 2026 Dubai Parties & Events - Comprehensive Guide

Where to Stay for NYE 2026

Top Hotels for NYE 2026: Atlantis The Palm, Armani Hotel Dubai (for views of Burj Khalifa 2026 fireworks), Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah.​

Pro Tip: To guarantee a room overlooking the 2026 fireworks, it’s recommended to book your hotel stay at least 3 months prior.

How to Get Around During NYE 2026 in Dubai

Public Transport: The Dubai Metro operates until late on New Year’s Eve 2026. However be ready to stand in queues at high traffic metro stations like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall for a considerable duration.

Taxi and Rideshare: Apps like Careem or Uber can be employed however it’s expensive due to surge pricing.

Pro Tip: If your hotel is situated in close proximity to your venue, it is recommended to walk instead in order to avoid heavy traffic due to congestion after the fireworks display.

Final Verdict

To sum up, Dubai seems to have the best New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations, whether it is the Maroon 5 performance and fireworks display at Atlantis The Palm or The Pointe, or visiting the Global Village’s 21-metre Festive Tree or going to the quiet Hatta. Want a thrill ride in the deep desert, a trendy shindig by the water, or a simple cookout with the kids? It is all available in the streets.​

There are phenomenal activities alongside stunning scenery, providing everything one desires to Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2026 in Dubai. Accordingly, whether you live in Dubai or are a tourist, we make sure you are taking advantage of whatever magical experience Dubai has in store for its audience as you step into 2026 with anticipation and a fresh start.