Here are some of the most exciting ways to enjoy the weekend before Christmas.
The weekend before Christmas is a time for families and friends to come together to celebrate the holidays. There are many things to see and do this weekend, including visiting Christmas markets, decorating homes and going out to feast on festive favourites. So, if you’re looking for some seasonal inspiration, read on…
Friday 20 December
Try the festive specials at EL&N
Known for its signature pink-hued interiors and enchanting atmosphere, EL&N London is turning up the festive cheer. Indulge in a dazzling array of limited-edition themed cakes and beverages across all UAE branches this holiday season. Highlights include the Alpine Tree Cake, Santa’s Sack Cake and limited-edition beverages such as Ferrero Rocher Hot Chocolate, Gingerbread Spiced Chai Latte, Nutella & Gingerbread Hot Chocolate and the Raffaello Rocher Milkshake.
GO: Visit ae.elnlondon.com for reservations and more information.
Dine at FACT’s Restaurant of the Year 2024
Considering team FACT hailed Trèsind Studio as ‘Restaurant of the Year’ at the FACT Dining Awards Dubai in 2020, 2021 and 2024, it’s evident that we’re big fans of Chef Himanshu Saini’s culinary prowess. If you thought Indian food was all about sloppy servings, here it is so elegantly prepared that you’ll want to grab a snap before your spoon. The tasting menu includes a generous sixteen courses, which is just as fancy for vegetarians as it is for meat-eaters. What Trèsind excels at is innovation and its unexpected take on ingredients, which you don’t usually find on an Indian menu – charred lobster tail, anyone?
GO: Visit https://tresindstudio.com for reservations and more information.
See Anastacia perform live in the capital
Tennis fans, listen up—the World Tennis League is gearing up to return for its third season, taking over Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi from 19 to 22 December 2024. Anastacia will close out a day of play from some of the world’s top tennis talent on Friday, 20 December. Anastacia Lyn Newkirk is known for her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits like “I’m Outta Love,” “Not That Kind,” “Freak of Nature,” “Paid My Dues,” and “One Day in Your Life.” With over thirty years in the music industry, she has collaborated with top-tier talent, including Celine Dion, Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Luciano Pavarotti.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Saturday 21 December
Hit the beach at Kaimana
Now open on J1 Beach, Kaimana Beach specialises in Asian and Polynesian cuisine. The new shoreline dining destination offers fusion food, creative cocktails and beachside views, blending the relaxed charm of the Polynesian Islands with an effortlessly sophisticated ambience. At the venue’s heart is a tranquil pool framed by chic loungers and beach furniture, including cosy sunbeds, beach cocoons for couples, and private Tiki cabanas
GO: Visit www.j1beach.com for more information.
Try the festive brunch at Zuma
Celebrate the season at Zuma’s annual Christmas Brunch, which includes a special visit from Santa. Guests will be welcomed with a festive drink, followed by a curated selection of Zuma’s signature dishes, live stations with seasonal delicacies, and indulgent festive-themed desserts. Available on Saturday, 21 December from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. Prices from AED 545 per person.
GO: Call 04 425 5660 for reservations and more information.
Check out this new rooftop in the capital
The New Wave American rooftop restaurant and bar brings the essence of modern LA living and its globally inspired cuisine to Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan. With a relaxed yet vibrant ambience, Waves Californian Kitchen and Bar invites guests to savour exceptional California-inspired food and drinks while enjoying stunning views of the capital. With a lively ambience, diners can savour delicious food and drinks while mingling and enjoying live music in the evenings. The food truck serves up tacos and other classic Californian bites, adding a fun and flavourful twist to the experience.
GO: Visit www.novotel-abudhabi-albustan.com or call 02 501 6444 for reservations and more information.
Sunday 22 December
Have breakfast with Santa Claus at Ski Dubai
Are you seeking a cheerful breakfast location this Christmas weekend? Delight in a joyous breakfast with Santa at North 28 inside Ski Dubai. Revel in festive delicacies like snowman pancakes and the daily serving of signature hot chocolate at 8am. This package is ideal for families with toddlers under two years old and comprises one breakfast dish and one beverage. Available from 1 to 25 December. AED 325 per person.
GO: Visit http://skidxb.com for reservations and more information.
Visit the Winter District
Dubai Media City Amphitheatre will present its Dubai Marina skyline. Nestled on the grass, visitors can immerse themselves in various Festive delights, including gourmet food and beverage choices, handcrafted treasures, and artisanal gifts. Adorned with enchanting decorations and a forest of Christmas trees, the venue hosts a spectrum of activities, including carnival games, a carousel, snowball fight areas and live music. Available daily, from 14 to 22 December.
GO: Visit www.winterdistrict.com for more information.
Try the festive afternoon tea at Raffles The Palm Dubai
Afternoon tea gets a festive upgrade at Raffles The Palm, where you can indulge in the Royal Festive Afternoon Tea at Bluthner Hall. With sweet and savoury bites, all given a holiday twist by pastry chefs and a pianist’s soft tunes playing Christmas favourites, your afternoon will surely be filled with festive cheer. Available from 4 December to 7 January, from 2pm to 8pm. AED 375 for two people (including tea and coffee) or AED 575 for two (including one glass of champagne each).
GO: Visit www.raffles.com for reservations and more information.
