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UAE lights up with festive Christmas markets / AI Generated Image
The desert heat has officially taken a backseat to the twinkling lights and "snowy" lanes of the UAE’s festive season. If you are looking to soak up the holiday spirit, 2025 has brought some of the most elaborate Christmas markets the region has ever seen. From giant trees to AI-powered elves, the magic is spread across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.Whether you are a resident or just visiting for the holidays, these five spots are the absolute "must-sees" for a cup of mulled grape and a photo with the big man in red.
Madinat Jumeirah festive market
If you only visit one market this year, let it be this one. Nestled among the waterways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, this 1,750-square-meter wonderland is the gold standard for festive vibes. The centerpiece is a massive 36-foot Christmas tree, and the view of the Burj Al Arab behind it is simply unbeatable.
- Dates: Running until December 31, 2025.
- Timings: Monday to Thursday from 3:00 PM; Friday to Sunday from 12:00 PM until late.
- Entry: Free (Activities like the carousel and train are extra).
- Special Highlight: You can take a festive abra ride with Santa or let the kids hop on the North Pole mini-train. Pro-tip: Parking is legendary for being difficult here, save yourself the headache and take a taxi to the Jumeirah Mina A’Salam entrance.
Winter city at Expo City Dubai
Expo City has transformed Al Wasl Plaza into a futuristic North Pole toy factory. This year’s theme, "The Candy Cane Comet," features a guiding light that only shines with the help of visiting children. It is immersive, grand, and arguably the most high-tech Christmas experience in the country.
- Dates: Until December 31, 2025.
- Timings: Daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Entry: AED 50 for adults; children under 3 and People of Determination are free.
- Special Highlight: Snowfall happens every Saturday! Watching snow drift inside the massive Al Wasl dome is a core 2025 memory waiting to happen. There’s also Santa’s House, where kids can see how he "recycles" old toys to make new magic.
Winter garden at Habtoor Palace
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace is where the "cool" crowd gathers. It’s less about the rides and more about the atmosphere, think cozy food trucks, live musicians, and a pet-friendly policy that means your furry friends don't have to miss out on the fun.
- Dates: Running through January 31, 2026.
- Timings: Weekdays 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM; Weekends until 1:00 AM.
- Entry: Access is via the Loyal App with a minimum spend of AED 25 (fully redeemable on food and drinks).
- Special Highlight: The food truck selection is top-tier, offering everything from gourmet sliders to festive churros. It’s the best spot for a relaxed evening with friends under the "snow-dusted" trees of the palace garden.
Global Village 2025
For those who want their Christmas with a side of international culture, Global Village is celebrating its landmark 30th season in style. Their festive village is packed with 3,500 shopping outlets across 30 pavilions, making it the ultimate destination for unique holiday gifts.
- Dates: Festive celebrations run until December 28, 2025.
- Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM; Thursday to Saturday until 1:00 AM.
- Entry: AED 25 to AED 30.
- Special Highlight: Don't miss the 21-meter-tall Christmas tree and the nightly festive drone shows that paint holiday symbols across the desert sky. If you're looking for winter gear, the Thailand and Afghan pavilions are currently the best spots for trendy winter jackets.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Abu Dhabi’s capital isn't trailing behind. The Galleria has turned its North Atrium into a Winter Wonderland that blends tradition with technology.
It’s perfect for families who want a polished, indoor festive experience without the sand.
- Dates: Until December 26, 2025.
- Timings: Daily 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Entry: Free (Santa visits require pre-registration).
- Special Highlight: Meet Elva, the UAE’s first AI elf influencer, who helps guide kids through Santa’s Winter Fair. There are also snowball toss games and a letter-writing station for those last-minute requests to the North Pole.
Whether you are hunting for the perfect handmade gift, craving a cup of spice-infused hot chocolate, or simply want to feel a bit of "snow" on your face in the middle of the desert, the UAE’s 2025 festive season has something for everyone. From the high-tech lights of Expo City to the traditional charm of Madinat Jumeirah, these markets are about more than just shopping, they are about making memories in a city that truly knows how to celebrate.Top Tip for 2025: Most of these venues get extremely busy on weekend evenings. If you can, try visiting on a weekday right when they open (around 4:00 PM) to catch the sunset views and beat the largest crowds. Don't forget to keep your camera charged, you’re going to need it.
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