12 Best Christmas Markets & Events in Dubai 2024

Well, hello to that perfect time of the year when the raindeers sing and the snowflakes dance! Confused? It’s CHRISTMAS! For those who are still living in the myth that Dubai can’t be a dream winter holiday destination, we are here to prove you wrong!

The infamous desert world turns into a winter wonderland for the Xmus celebration, and you can experience this with the best travel agency in Dubai, Next Holidays. 

Well, don’t just believe us; experience it yourself on this journey to Dubai Christmas markets and events!

P.S.: Don’t forget your coat; it's going to be a frosty ride! You can also explore some crazy deals on Christmas & New Year Holiday Packages!

Your festive season is incomplete without visiting the only winter market in Dubai! After a very memorable launch at Emirates Towers, the Winter District is back with its second edition for all enthusiasts. And it would still be an understatement to say that it would be much better than last year. Ready to host a winter wonderland in the middle of the desert, this place offers neverending live performances and gaming activities. For all the shopaholics, worry not because there will be things for you as well; just make sure you don't cross your card limit!

Dubai has a lot more than this: Things to do in Dubai in winter  

Madinat Jumeirah Christmas markets are literally the must-add to the list, and why not? These markets offer an endless variety to choose from. Whether you are looking for a new Christmas decoration or a gift for your loved ones, these markets have something for everyone. This will be the perfect place to stay until late, even on weekdays. Treat yourself to a cup of mulled grape or a magical abra ride. Just a quick sneak peek; there will be a lot of sweet treats and grooving music in this Madinat Christmas market.

Popular among all the visitors and even the citizens, Expo City Dubai is back with its 2024 edition of Winter Fest! In collaboration with Toys RUs, this Winter City in Dubai will turn into an enchanting toy factory for all the children {and some adults} to live their dreams. They will be ensuring that you and your family enjoy the experience and a special meet-and-greet with Geo the Giraffe and Santa Claus himself. You can also shop your head out at the Expo City Winter Wonderland or the charming North Pole Market. There will be a special “Candles by Candlelight” concert and so much more.

If you are looking for a hub for your shopping at A.K.A., the best Christmas market in Dubai, then this one will definitely impress you! With the festival stalls filled with gifts and treats running alongside, you can enjoy live performances, festive food, and sparkly Christmas lights. Imagine walking on a path filled with lights, water, and fireworks shows, and the festive spirit spread all around. Sounds like a dream, right? If it does, then this place will definitely be the highlight of your winter in Dubai.

Prepare yourself for something that has never happened before in the UAE! Christmas 2024 in Dubai brings you this iconic holiday story of the Grinch. Witness one of the most well-known characters of all time come to life on the stage and tell you the classic tale and sing some songs like “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch." With awesome Christmas decorations and a class tale, this is a perfect way to spend your festival if you have kids. 

If you are a fan of ABBA, here’s some good news for you! This Christmas celebration will definitely serve you as a treat because they are coming back with their reunion concert. Get your voices ready to sing classic hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” with them. And all of this with a little festive twist. You can already imagine the energy and excitement of this concert touching the roof and teleporting you back to the disco era and making it the perfect celebration eve. 

Imagine going to a place that is just the right blend of art and technology; doesn’t that sound fun? Well, if it does to you, then visiting the Glow Garden Festival will be one of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in Dubai. With a showcase of lights and glowing sculptures, this place looks no less than a wonderland. If you decide to visit, do not miss the outdoor event, which is one of the most beloved by all visitors, offering an unforgettable experience under the stars.

Celebrate Christmas with an amazing combination of Museum of the Future and Dubai Glow Garden Tickets  

Wizard of Oz at Theatre by QE2

We all know the famous characters Dorothy, Toto, and their gang from The Wizard of Oz. Well,  now it is time to actually join your favorite characters on a fantastic adventure to the land of Oz at the theater. If you are a fan of musicals, you will be happy to know that this one features all the characters you know with a little festive twist and a vibe that will perfectly match your holiday spirit.

Witness the classic story of Christmas, The Nutcracker, come to life on the stage of Dubai Opera. Presented by Astana Opera Ballet and orchestra, this performance promises an experience you will never forget. Feel yourself lost in the melodious production that tells the story of a young girl who gets a Nutcracker as a Christmas gift and how they defeat the Rat King together.

You can also have a look at some more Dubai Opera Activites!  

Dubai Shopping Festival

Make your Christmas extra special with the Dubai Shopping Festival, which is known to be the best time to be in the city. With unbeatable deals, family fun, and amazing surprises, don’t miss the chance to prepare yourself for an amazing Christmas Eve in Dubai. This festival is not just about shopping; catch concerts by global and regional superstars and fashion shows, and explore pop-up and outdoor markets.

If there is a place that can be called an 'all-rounder,’ then Global Village is definitely it! Just like every festival, this village set itself to become the ideal place to celebrate Christmas in Dubai. Offering a multi-cultural experience, this is where you can witness the winters of over 70 countries. From cultural performances to fireworks displays, this village is perfect for families and friend groups showcasing the perfect festive spirit.

The city is known to light up its skyline during different events, and Christmas is no exception! As the night falls, the magic of Christmas celebrations begins to spread through fireworks, lights, and drone shows. These are not just any lights; they literally hold the power to enchant their visitors with every single shot. And the best part? You can witness this fabulous display of lights across the city at various places, providing a heart-throbbing eve. 

Participating in the Christmas market does not have any charges! You can just visit there, enjoy the live performance, and get your Christmas shopping done. 

The Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market runs from December 6 to 31, 2024, open Monday to Thursday from 3 PM and Friday to Sunday from 12 PM.

Enjoy Christmas in Dubai at venues like Madinat Jumeirah, Expo City Dubai's Winter City, and Dubai Festival City. If you are a fan of live performances, then Dubai Opera or special Christmas concerts will be perfect for you.

Christmas is widely celebrated in Dubai, with numerous festive events and markets. Although Dubai is not popularly known as the winter city, it converts into one during Christmas.

The largest Christmas market in Dubai is the Madinat Jumeirah Festival Market. This is the place where you can buy all the traditional treats and goods.