Dubai in winter is nothing short of magical as we are in this season where sunshine meets sparkle, and the city swaps heat waves for holiday cheer. But if you think festive markets are all tinsel and mulled wine, think again.
As the temperatures dip and the air turns refreshingly crisp, the city begins to slow into its most anticipated season. Cooler evenings, occasional winter rains, and outdoor-friendly days create the perfect backdrop for festive gatherings and shared moments.
At the heart of the holiday season are destinations that turn festive traditions into unforgettable experiences from celebration at Expo City to christmas markets across the city that are stepping up the magic, offering far more than simply festive shopping. Expect immersive experiences, high-energy moments, and adrenaline-fuelled fun woven into the seasonal charm.
Here are the Christmas markets that capture the spirit of Dubai at its most joyful.
Culinara Christmas Market at The Link, One Za’abeel
Culinara at The Link, One Za’abeel is celebrating the festive season with a month-long programme featuring a Christmas Market, seasonal dining across eleven concepts, a relaxed Christmas Day brunch, and a New Year’s Eve celebration with panoramic fireworks views. Running from 5 December to 7 January and on 25 December, guests can enjoy a relaxed Christmas Day brunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, priced at Dhs249 per person.
The festivities conclude with a New Year’s Eve celebration on 31 December, from 7pm to midnight, featuring live music, views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame fireworks. The minimum spend is Dhs1,000 per person, with reduced pricing for children.
For more information please visit culinaradubai.com
Winter Block Party at Paus
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For those seeking a slower December, Paus have a line-up of programmes to celebrate the festive season built around seasonal food and shared experiences, including a Festive Menu with plates and bites inspired by Christmas flavours at The Eatery, such as a Zaatar Labneh Turkey Plate, Turkey Sandwich with brie and cranberry, and a white chocolate and lemon Bûche de Noël.
On December 20, 2025, the community-led wellness space is also bringing back its Block Party. Held at The Courtyard from 9 AM to 8 PM, the event will showcase a local makers market, creative workshops, open mic performances, and wellness sessions (think yoga with art therapy and mindful discussions paired with matcha in a sauna). To wrap up its end-of-year calendar, Paus is also inviting guests on December 23 and 24 to share a communal dinner, celebrating connection and togetherness.
For more information, visit pausclub.com
Bab Al Shams Christmas Market at Zala Lawn
This festive season, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort transforms into a desert wonderland, where twinkling lights illuminate golden dunes and the air is scented with winter treats. As the sun sets, celebrations continue with grand festive feasts and spectacular New Year’s Eve galas held beneath the stars, capturing the magic and warmth of the season in an unforgettable desert setting.
The festive dining experience is priced at Dhs395 per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and Dhs595 per person with house beverages.
For more infomration visit babalshams.com
Al Habtoor City’s Winter Garden
Opening from 1 December, the Al Habtoor Winter Garden returns with an enchanting festive setup designed for all ages. Set against the elegant backdrop of Al Habtoor Palace, the seasonal pop-up invites guests from 4pm to 12.30am on weekdays to wander through a cosy outdoor setting filled with twinkling lights, festive décor, and a curated selection of food trucks.
For more information visit alhabtoorcity.com
Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Tower
This winter, Winter District season 3 returns from 13th – 28th December o Jumeirah Emirates Towers, transforming the city into a festive playground filled with light, music, and seasonal cheer. Designed for all ages, the vibrant celebration brings the holiday spirit to life with twinkling décor, live performances, and immersive experiences that capture the magic of the season.
For more information visit winterdistrict.com
Mint Market at The Sustainable City
MINT Market is closing out the festive season on a high with the Origin by MINT Christmas Market, returning to The Sustainable City for a joyful two-day outdoor celebration. Taking place on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December, this feel-good festive market champions the very best of local creativity and homegrown talent and best of all, entry is free.
Perfect for last-minute Christmas shopping, the market brings together over 30 UAE-based brands offering handcrafted gifts, sustainable finds, and festive favourites that make thoughtful stocking fillers. Guests can enjoy seasonal bites while soaking in the relaxed, community-driven atmosphere set against lush, eco-friendly surroundings.
For more information visit mintmarket.ae
Expo City transfroms into the Winter City
Winter City at Expo City Dubai transforms the heart of the city into a dazzling festive wonderland, where the spirit of the season comes alive in unforgettable ways. Set beneath the iconic dome of Al Wasl Plaza, the experience features falling snow, live performances, and hands-on creative workshops for all ages. From the magical tree-lighting ceremony to family-friendly entertainment throughout the day, Winter City is a joyful celebration designed to bring families together.
For more information visit expocitydubai.com
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