Best Christmas Markets & Festive Villages in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

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The festive season is approaching, and there’s no better way to celebrate Christmas than by immersing yourself in the magic of sparkling lights, festive treats, and cheerful vibes. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, known for their luxury experiences and cultural charm, host some of the most enchanting Christmas markets and festive villages. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, enjoying family-friendly activities, or indulging in seasonal delights, the UAE promises a magical winter wonderland.

Here’s a curated list of must-visit Christmas markets and festive villages in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Dubai Christmas Markets & Festive Villages

1. Global Village Dubai

Global Village
Global Village

A favorite among locals and tourists, Global Village transforms into a festive paradise during Christmas. From themed pavilions representing countries worldwide to traditional holiday treats and entertainment, this market is perfect for families and friends alike.
 Highlights:

  • International holiday food stalls and snacks
  • Live performances and Christmas-themed shows
  • Shopping for unique gifts and souvenirs
  • European-style Christmas stalls across multiple country pavilions.
  • Free concerts, light parades, and cultural performances.
  • Entry ticket: AED 42 only – making it one of the most budget-friendly winter experiences.

Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai
 Dates: October 2025 – April 2026
 Don’t miss: Fireworks shows every Friday and Saturday night.

2. Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace

Winter Garden
Winter Garden

Step into the cozy, festive charm of Winter Garden. With twinkling lights, themed photo booths, and Santa meet-and-greets, it’s the ideal destination for capturing those magical holiday moments.
 Highlights:

  • Christmas lights and festive decorations
  • Gourmet food stalls with holiday treats
  • Family-friendly activities for children
  • Free entry to the beautifully lit garden area.
  • Delicious food stalls serving festive favorites — from crepes to hot chocolate.
  • Santa’s Grotto for kids and themed photo booths.

Location: Habtoor Palace, Sheikh Zayed Road
 Dates: Mid-November 2025 to early January 2026
 Perfect for: Families, couples, and festive photo lovers.

3. Dubai Festival City Mall – Festive Market

Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall

Known for its spectacular light and water shows, Festival City Mall adds a Christmas market to the mix. Explore artisan stalls, enjoy seasonal treats, and witness the famous IMAGINE show set against the festive spirit.
 Highlights:

  • Artisan crafts and holiday gifts
  • Seasonal snacks and desserts
  • Stunning waterfront light shows 

 Abu Dhabi Christmas Markets & Festive Villages

1. Yas Mall – Winter Wonderland

<yoastmark class=

Yas Mall brings the magic of Christmas with a festive village filled with lights, activities, and seasonal shopping. Families can enjoy the decorations, meet Santa, and explore fun activities designed for all ages.
 Highlights:

  • Festive shopping experience with themed stalls
  • Santa meet-and-greet and photo opportunities
  • Children’s activities including rides and games
  • Free-entry outdoor market at Yas Bay Waterfront with food trucks and craft stalls.
  • Snow park zones inside Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World (paid attractions).
  • Christmas parade, Santa meet-and-greet, and fireworks on New Year’s Eve.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Dates: December 2025 – January 2026
Perfect for: Families and thrill-seekers who want holiday fun with theme park magic.

2. Emirates Palace – Christmas Village

Emirates Palace Christmas Village
Emirates Palace Christmas Village

The iconic Emirates Palace creates a luxurious festive village that perfectly blends elegance with holiday cheer. From gourmet Christmas treats to beautifully decorated areas, it’s a feast for the senses.
 Highlights:

  • Fine dining experiences with holiday menus
  • Christmas decorations and photo spots
  • Exclusive entertainment and live performances 

3. Marina Mall & Abu Dhabi Corniche Christmas Market

Marina Mall Abu Dhabi
Marina Mall Abu Dhabi

Enjoy a relaxed festive vibe at Marina Mall and along the Corniche, where seasonal markets feature local artisans, holiday foods, and fun for the whole family. Perfect for evening strolls and capturing the festive lights.
 Highlights:

  • Local crafts and holiday souvenirs
  • Food trucks and festive treats
  • Family-friendly entertainment 

Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

  1. Plan Ahead: Many markets get crowded, especially on weekends. Visit early for a relaxed experience. 
  2. Dress Comfortably: While evenings are cooler, daytime temperatures can still be warm. Layer your clothing. 
  3. Bring Cash: Some small vendors may not accept cards. 
  4. Capture Memories: Don’t forget your camera – the festive decorations are Instagram-worthy! 

 Make It a Festive Holiday with CityLaila Tours

Celebrate Christmas 2025 in style! CityLaila Tours can help you explore the best festive markets, family activities, and holiday experiences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From luxury sightseeing to cozy market strolls, we craft experiences that make your holiday magical.

Plan your perfect holiday now!

Book here: www.citylaila.com

Contact us: info@citylaila.com

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Kids-Friendly Activities

Kids-Friendly Activities in Dubai This Winter 2025: The Ultimate Family Guide

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Dubai transforms into a magical playground every winter—and 2025 is set to be bigger, brighter, and more family-friendly than ever. With cool temperatures, festive attractions, outdoor adventures, and world-class entertainment, this season is the perfect time to plan a family holiday.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teenagers, Dubai offers endless kid-approved activities that combine fun, learning, and unforgettable memories. This guide covers the best kid-friendly things to do in Dubai this winter, plus recommendations on booking, timings, and the most convenient options for families.

Let’s get into your winter family bucket list!

  1. Dubai Miracle Garden – A Floral Wonderland for All Ages

Winter attractions

Best for: All ages
 Location: Al Barsha South
 Winter highlight: New floral installations, Disney Avenue, Emirates A380 flower display

A family favourite, Dubai Miracle Garden blooms beautifully every winter with over 150 million flowers arranged into colourful sculptures and pathways. Kids love the giant teddy bear, floating lady, Smurfs Village, and many Insta-worthy trails.

Why kids love it:

  • Bright colours and cartoon-themed displays
  • Easy walking paths for strollers
  • Open-air, relaxed atmosphere
  1. Dubai Garden Glow – Lights, Art & Dinosaurs

gardens of dubai

Best for: Ages 3+
 Location: Zabeel Park
 Winter highlight: Neon garden, Dinosaur Park, Art Park

When the sun sets, Dubai Garden Glow lights up with glowing installations and imaginative light sculptures. The Dinosaur Park, with over 100 animatronic dinos, is a big hit among children.

Why kids love it:

  • Moving dinosaurs
  • Illusion exhibits
  • Interactive light zones
  1. Dubai Parks and Resorts – Motiongate, Legoland & Riverland

parks

Best for: Ages 2–14
 Location: Jebel Ali
 Winter highlight: Outdoor shows, festive parade, character meet-and-greets

With three major theme parks—Motiongate, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park—this is the biggest entertainment hub in the region. Winter is the best season to enjoy full days outdoors.

Top family picks:

  • Legoland’s Miniland & driving school
  • Motiongate’s DreamWorks indoor rides
  • Riverland’s winter street shows
  1. Ski Dubai – Snowy Adventures in the Desert
ski dubai tickets
ski dubai tickets

Best for: All ages (Snow Park from age 2+)
 Location: Mall of the Emirates
 Winter highlight: Snow cinema, penguin encounters

Give kids a real winter experience in the desert at Ski Dubai. From snow slopes to zorbing to meeting penguins—it’s a perfect winter escape indoors.

Must-do for kids:

  • Penguin encounter
  • Snow Park rides
  • Chairlift ride
  1. Green Planet – A Tropical Experience Indoors

Best for: Ages 3+
 Location: City Walk
 Winter highlight: New animal encounters

Home to over 3,000 plants and animals, Green Planet gives kids a fun, educational adventure in a rainforest setting.

Kid favourites:

  • Sugar glider encounters
  • Sloth experience
  • Bat cave walk-through
  1. Dubai Safari Park – Wildlife Adventure in Winter Weather

winter attractions of dubai

Best for: All ages
 Location: Al Warqa
 Winter highlight: Animal shows, Safari Journey Train

Winter is the perfect time to explore Dubai Safari Park without the heat. Kids love the open safari, reptile house, bird aviary, and petting zoo.

Top activities for kids:

  • Giraffe feeding
  • Kids Farm
  • Live bird shows
  1. AYA Universe – Immersive Digital Worlds

AYA - A New Universe, visit AYA in dubai

Best for: Ages 6+
 Location: WAFI Mall
 Winter highlight: New interactive rooms and light shows

AYA Universe transports families into a futuristic digital universe, packed with lights, cosmic playgrounds, virtual gardens, and interactive animation.

Why it’s great for kids:

  • Fully immersive rooms
  • Safe, indoor environment
  • Great for photos
  1. Dubai Festival City – Imagine Show & Family Attractions
Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall

Best for: All ages
 Location: Dubai Festival City Mall
 Winter highlight: Laser, water, and fire show

The daily Imagine Show is one of Dubai’s most impressive FREE experiences. Kids are mesmerized by the choreographed fountains, pyrotechnics, and holographic projections.

Bonus:
 Two family favourites nearby—Bounce Trampoline Park and FabyLand.

  1. Kite Beach – Outdoor Play & Kids Activities

Best for: All ages
 Location: Jumeirah
 Winter highlight: Cool breeze, soft sand, kids’ splash area

Kids can enjoy beachside fun with playgrounds, trampolines, splash zone, and cycling tracks. Food trucks along the beach make it family-friendly.

Best time to visit:
 Morning or sunset during winter.

  1. KidZania – A Fun Learning City for Kids

Best for: Ages 4–14
 Location: The Dubai Mall
 Winter highlight: Winter workshops & seasonal role-play activities

This indoor mini-city helps kids learn through role-play—pilots, doctors, firefighters, chefs and more. Perfect for keeping them entertained for hours.

Top picks:

  • Pilot simulator
  • Firefighter training
  • Hospital role-play
  1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium

Best for: All ages
 Location: The Dubai Mall
 Winter highlight: Shark feeding, Glass-bottom boat ride

The massive viewing tunnel lets kids witness sharks, rays, penguins, and over 33,000 marine species up-close.

Must-do experiences:

  • Penguin Cove
  • Underwater Zoo
  • VR experience
  1. Global Village – Cultural Fun & Shows

Global Village Dubai

Best for: All ages
 Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
 Winter highlight: Carnival rides, kids’ theatre, fireworks

A family favourite winter spot offering food, culture, shopping, and entertainment. Kids enjoy the Ripley’s Believe It or Not, the fun fair, and the mini circus.

Kid-Friendly Winter Events in Dubai (2025 Highlights)

  • Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) – fireworks, kids shows, roaming parades
  • Winter Fest at Expo City – Santa’s Village, toy workshops
  • Christmas markets at JLT, Madinat Jumeirah, and Dubai Festival City
  • Outdoor movie nights at Alserkal, JBR, and parks
  • New Year Fireworks at Burj Khalifa & Palm Jumeirah

Tips for Parents Visiting Dubai in Winter

  • Book tickets online to avoid queues
  • Choose morning and late-afternoon slots for outdoor attractions
  • Carry jackets for indoor cold attractions like Ski Dubai or Ice Rink
  • Use Metro + taxis for kid-friendly convenience
  • Weekdays are less crowded than weekends

Final Thoughts: Make Your Kid-Friendly Dubai Winter Trip Effortless with CityLaila

Winter 2025 is the perfect season to experience Dubai with kids—pleasant weather, exciting attractions, seasonal events, and endless entertainment options. Whether you’re planning theme park days, beach playtime, indoor adventures, or educational experiences, Dubai delivers the perfect balance of fun and comfort for families.

To make your trip smoother, book your Dubai attractions, theme parks, winter events, and combo deals through CityLaila. With exclusive discounts, fast confirmations, and easy mobile tickets, CityLaila helps families enjoy Dubai’s best experiences without stress.

Plan smarter. Save more. Create unforgettable winter memories with CityLaila!

Dhow cruise

What to Expect on a Dubai Canal Cruise: Food, Shows & Night Views (2026 Guide)

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A Dubai Canal Cruise is one of the most magical ways to experience the city—where modern skyscrapers, glowing bridges, and calm waterfront views come together to create an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Dubai resident looking for a unique weekend plan, a cruise along the Dubai Water Canal blends entertainment, fine dining, and mesmerizing night scenery into a perfect journey.
In this guide, we’ll explore exactly what to expect—from dining and onboard shows to iconic night views, ticket options, and insider tips to make your cruise experience truly exceptional.

The Dubai Water Canal Experience: What Makes It Special?

Dhow Cruise Dinner

The Dubai Canal stretches 3.2 km from Business Bay to the Arabian Gulf, passing under futuristic pedestrian bridges and alongside landmark attractions. At night, the water shimmers with reflections of city lights, giving the whole journey a cinematic feel.
Expect a perfect mix of:

  • Scenic beauty
  • Entertainment
  • Cultural experiences
  • Relaxation
  • Great food

Whether you choose a dhow cruise or a luxury yacht experience, the ambience is always peaceful, romantic, and visually stunning.

1. Dining on a Dubai Canal Cruise: What’s on the Menu?

A Blend of International & Arabic Cuisine
Most cruises serve buffet-style dinners featuring:

  • Arabic mezze (hummus, moutabal, fattoush)
  • Grilled meats & kebabs
  • Biryani / pasta options
  • Fresh salads
  • International main courses
  • Assorted desserts

Some premium cruises offer:

  • Live cooking counters
  • 3-course gourmet meals
  • Soft beverages included
  • VIP seating with waiter service

Vegetarian & Special Diets
Most operators offer:

  • Veg-friendly dishes
  • Vegan options
  • Jain meals (upon request)
  • Gluten-free selections

Dining Experience
Guests typically enjoy:

  • Indoor air-conditioned dining
  • Outdoor open-deck seating
  • Candlelit ambiance
  • Panoramic views of illuminated skyscrapers

2. Entertainment Onboard: Shows You Can Expect

Dubai Canal Cruises are known for light cultural entertainment. Here’s what’s commonly included:
➤ Tanoura Show
A traditional Sufi-inspired dance where the performer spins gracefully in colorful skirts—always a crowd favorite.
➤ Live Music
Some cruises have:

  • Arabic music
  • Bollywood singer
  • International soft music
  • Saxophone performances (premium cruises)

➤ Female Vocalists or Fusion Performances
Select luxury cruises offer upscale performances, adding elegance to your evening.
➤ Kids Entertainment
Family-oriented cruises may provide:

  • Magic shows
  • Balloon twisting
  • Light games to keep younger guests engaged

3. Night Views: The Highlight of the Dubai Canal Cruise

The night scenery is, without a doubt, the star of the experience. Expect jaw-dropping photo opportunities and Instagram-worthy visuals throughout your journey.

Major Views Along the Route
Depending on your boarding point, you may see:

  • Business Bay skyline
  • JW Marriott Marquis (once the world’s tallest hotel)
  • Tolerance Bridge with its striking curved arch
  • Waterfall Bridge illuminated with rainbow LED lights
  • Burj Khalifa sparkling in the distance
  • Dubai Creek extension
  • Sheikh Zayed Road Waterfall (the famous mechanical waterfall)

Why the Night is Best

  • The LED-lit bridges look extraordinary
  • Buildings reflect beautifully on the water
  • The atmosphere is cooler and more enjoyable
  • Perfect setup for romantic photos or family memories

4. Types of Experiences You Can Choose

La Mer & Kite Beach

Standard Dhow Cruise

  • Buffet dinner
  • Tanoura show
  • Indoor + outdoor decks
  • Budget-friendly

Luxury Glass-Cruise

  • Panoramic glass windows
  • Premium buffet
  • Live music
  • Superior seating layout

Private Yachts

  • Best for celebrations
  • Personalized menu
  • Dedicated staff
  • Custom routes

Sunset Cruises

  • Ideal for photography
  • Cooler weather
  • Romantic ambiance

5. Typical Timings for Dubai Canal Cruises

Most cruises follow:

  • Boarding: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
  • Departure: 8:00 PM
  • Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours

Premium cruises may start slightly earlier or offer additional options.

6. Ticket Prices: What to Expect in 2025

Approximate price range:

Standard Dhow Cruise
AED 70–120 per person (Includes buffet dinner, soft drinks, entertainment)

Luxury Cruise
AED 150–250 per person

Private Yacht Charter
AED 500–1500+ per hour depending on size

Note: Prices vary depending on the operator, inclusions, and seating type.

7. Tips to Enhance Your Dubai Canal Cruise Experience

✔ Choose Upper Deck Seating
Best for night views and photography.
✔ Arrive Early
You’ll get better seat selection and avoid waiting queues.
✔ Check the Weather
Cool evenings between November–March are ideal.
✔ Dress Smart Casual
Comfortable, elegant outfits suit the dining atmosphere.
✔ Book in Advance

Especially during:

  • New Year’s
  • Christmas
  • UAE public holidays
  • Winter weekends

Final Thoughts: A Dubai Experience You Shouldn’t Miss

A Dubai Canal Cruise is more than just a boat ride—it’s a complete sensory experience that blends food, culture, entertainment, and stunning night views into a single unforgettable evening. Whether you’re traveling with family, planning a romantic night out, or looking for a unique celebration venue, this cruise offers something for every type of traveler.

Ready to Book?

For seamless bookings, real-time availability, verified operators, and unbeatable prices, CityLaila offers curated Dubai Canal Cruise packages tailored to every budget—from standard dhow cruises to luxury glass-enclosed experiences and private yachts.
Explore more attractions, combo deals, and exclusive offers at CityLaila, your trusted partner for unforgettable Dubai adventures.

 

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About CityLaila Blog

City Laila is your trusted travel partner for unforgettable experiences across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond. Today, our platform proudly spans 12+ countries, including the UAE, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the UK, USA, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Hong Kong, making it easier than ever for global travellers to explore the best of the Middle East. Our mission is to help visitors discover the finest attractions in the region by giving them a clear and immersive preview of what each experience offers. From world-class theme parks, water parks, and snow parks to cultural landmarks and iconic hotspots, we ensure travellers know exactly what to expect before they begin their journey.

The CityLaila Blog is designed to educate, inspire, and guide travellers by showcasing major attractions, must-visit destinations, events, and seasonal highlights across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. We provide valuable travel tips, insider insights, and up-to-date information so visitors can make informed decisions and plan memorable itineraries. What sets this blog apart is its focus on featuring monthly festivals, special celebrations, and unique experiences that the UAE hosts throughout the year. Whether you are travelling from Asia, Africa, Europe, or the Americas, our content helps you plan your trip according to your interests, travel preferences, and ideal timing.With CityLaila, exploring the UAE becomes seamless, exciting, and tailored to travellers from 12+ countries worldwide.

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