For festive fun across the UAE, look no further.
As we begin the countdown to Christmas, there are plenty of ways to enjoy festive fun in Dubai. From holiday feasts to late-night treats, read on for our picks of the week.
Monday 16 December
Dine at NEA
Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan has opened a new Mediterranean restaurant called NEA, which embraces the community-centric culture of the Mediterranean. Expect a casual yet refined charm featuring natural materials and lush plants that enhance the venue’s welcoming ambience. The Wine Cellar showcases a curated selection of wines from key Mediterranean regions, while the open kitchen showcases fresh salads, Mediterranean Seabass Ceviche, Grilled Spanish Octopus, and the NEA”s signature Steak Frites.
GO: Visit www.novotel-abudhabi-albustan.com or call 02 501 6444 for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 17 December
Check out a festive market
Al Habtoor City’s Winter Garden is back for a new season, featuring more street food kiosks, live entertainment, and enjoyable children’s activities than before. Experience a selection of street food stalls selling everything from refreshing fruit juices to ice slushies. Plus, there are kids’ activities, including carnival skill games, a go-kart space, soft play, and a trampoline. Elsewhere, Panda Pets Trading’s interactive mini zoo will introduce children to emus, goats, reptiles, and more. Available from 1 November to 31 January.
GO: Follow @wintergardendubai on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 18 December
Experience a culinary collab
Enjoy an unforgettable evening as Jara by Martín Berasategui, the region’s first Basque cuisine restaurant, collaborates with the FACT award-winning Leña Dubai for a four-hands dinner. This extraordinary event unites the legendary culinary talents of Chef Martín Berasategui and Chef Dani García. The menu includes a Mille-feuille of smoked eel and foie gras, the whimsical foie that wanted to be an apple, a duo of carabineros, Kiwami beef tomahawk and the floral-inspired Tarta di rose. With only 15 spots available for the Salon Champagne package and 100 for the standard dining option, guests will have the unique chance to meet the chefs. Available on Wednesday 18 December from 7pm. AED 1,500 (standard dining experience) or AED 10,000 (Salon champagne package).
GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for reservations and more information.
Thursday 19 December
See Bryan Adams live in the capital
Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams will perform at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi as part of the World Tennis League 2024. His hits such as (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, Heaven, and Summer of ’69 have become timeless anthems. Having previously performed in Dubai at the Autism Rocks Arena in 2017 and at Coca-Cola Arena in 2023, Adams’ return to the UAE promises to be a momentous occasion. Tickets are available via Platinumlist from AED 199.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Friday 20 December
Watch the Grinch at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Marking its UAE debut, the Dr. Seuss classic will take centre stage at the Zabeel Theatre in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray from 20 to 24 December. The musical adaptation brings the magic of the Grinch’s story to life with songs like You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch and Welcome Christmas. Narrated by Max the Dog, you can follow the Grinch as he plots to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville. Tickets for the UAE premiere of How The Grinch Stole Christmas are available now via Platinumlist, with prices starting at AED 200 per person.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 21 December
Party with Akon and Sean Paul at the World Tennis League
Groove to beats by Akon and Sean Paul at the World Tennis League. These superstars promise an unforgettable night of chart-topping hits and infectious energy. Whether you’re dancing to Sean Paul’s reggae or singing along to Akon’s classics, this performance is one not to be missed.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Sunday 22 December
Witness the magic of The Nutcracker
You have probably watched The Nutcracker plenty of times and now’s your chance again. The Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of Astana from Kazakhstan is inviting you to relive the magic at the Dubai Opera. So snag your tickets now and follow the journey of Clara as her nutcracker comes alive this Christmas. Available from 19 to 22 December. Tickets from AED 300 per person.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
