Abu Dhabi transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during the festive season, offering enchanting Christmas markets, holiday treats, and magical experiences for visitors of all ages. The capital’s markets, including the popular Christmas markets Abu Dhabi hosts, combine shopping, entertainment, food, and seasonal activities, creating memorable celebrations throughout the city.
Abu Dhabi’s Christmas markets bring the capital to life with festive charm, combining creativity, culture, and celebration in every corner.
- A quick overview of Abu Dhabi’s Christmas markets 2025
- Top markets, key dates, and locations
- Planning tips to make the most of the festive season
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Overview of Abu Dhabi Christmas Markets 2025
As the festive season approaches, Abu Dhabi transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and magical experiences that capture the spirit of Christmas. From luxury shopping to artisan crafts and family-friendly entertainment, the city offers countless ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Visitors can expect:
- Indoor and outdoor experiences across the city
- Craft markets, street food, and luxury festive offerings
- Family-friendly workshops, live performances, and themed photo zones
- Special holiday events, including brunches, parades, and fireworks
Top Christmas Markets in Abu Dhabi 2025
From sparkling winter festivals to charming artisan fairs, Abu Dhabi’s festive season is filled with magical experiences for all ages.
1. Yas Winter Fest
Yas Winter Fest is Abu Dhabi’s largest festive event, offering an all-in-one holiday experience.
The market features:
- Twinkling lights and elaborate decorations
- Artisan stalls and holiday treats
- Santa’s Grotto and themed activities for children
- Live performances and entertainment
Visitors can explore crafts, enjoy rides, and indulge in festive food, making it ideal for families and groups. Check the Yas Winter Fest website for 2025 dates and ticketing.
Location
It is located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Dates
Multi-day events throughout December
Entry
Ticketed
2. Emirates Palace – Christmas Market Under The Dome
This luxury festive village features:
- Artisan crafts and gourmet food
- Mulled wine and elaborate decorations
- Santa’s Grotto and photo zones
- Exclusive live performances
The Emirates Palace market is perfect for visitors seeking high-end festive experiences in an iconic setting.
Location
It is located in the Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi
Dates
Early & late December (usually 5th – 8th and 24th – 26th December)
Entry
Free
3. Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village & Festive Market
In Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village & Festive Market, you will find festive shopping stalls, parades and workshops for children, Santa meet-and-greets, and creative sessions and gifts for kids.
This central city venue is ideal for families and shoppers looking to enjoy a festive atmosphere in a convenient location. Check the Abu Dhabi Mall for any new updates.
Location
It is located in Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Zahiyah – Abu Dhabi
Dates
12th December – 5th January (Festive Market: 12th -24th December)
Entry
Free / pay at venue for special activities
4. Winter Wonderland at Al Maryah Island
This market offers themed photo opportunities and Tinsel Woods walk-through, Santa appearances, live performances and entertainment, and holiday food stalls
Winter Wonderland at Al Maryah Island is a city-centre favourite, perfect for both families and friends looking for festive entertainment.
Location
It is located in The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Dates
7th – 26th December
Entry
Free
5. WEADS Jingle Bells Market at Le Royal Meridien
This festive market features:
- Over 60+ local artisan vendors
- Wine tasting, gin bar, carolers, and live music
- Santa visit and family activities
It is ideal for those who enjoy artisan crafts, live entertainment, and a lively festive atmosphere.
Location
It is located in Le Royal Meridien, Abu Dhabi
Dates
30th November (typically late November weekends)
Entry
Free
6. Seasons Market by Grand Millennium Al Wahda
Seasons Market by Grand Millennium Al Wahda features craft stalls and seasonal gifts, food and beverages from Laylai and 90 Centigrade Cafe, and a weekend-friendly environment
This market is ideal for visitors looking for a relaxed festive outing with family or friends.
Location
It is located in Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi
Dates
Fridays & Saturdays, November-December
Entry
Free
7. Royal M Hotel Christmas Street Food Market
This event focuses on:
- Festive street food and international cuisine
- Live entertainment and group activities
- A family-friendly, casual festive experience
Perfect for food enthusiasts seeking seasonal treats alongside entertainment.
Location
It is located in the Royal M Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Dates
Mid-December
Entry
Ticketed
8. Snow Abu Dhabi at Reem Mall
Snow Abu Dhabi is an indoor winter park offering:
- Snow-themed activities and games
- Santa meet-and-greet
- Snowman building and holiday movies
- Themed café treats
The park is ideal for families and children, offering an immersive festive winter experience in a controlled indoor environment.
Location
It is located in Reem Mall – Ar Reem St – Al Reem Island – Najmat Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi
Dates
1st – 25th December
Entry
Paid
9. Yas Bay Waterfront Winter Wonderland
This outdoor market includes food trucks and craft stalls, festive lights and decorations, and family-friendly activities
Additionally, Yas Bay Waterfront is perfect for casual strolls, evening entertainment, and enjoying festive dining outdoors.
Location
It is located in Yas Bay Waterfront, Abu Dhabi
Dates
December
Entry
Free
Other Festive Highlights in Abu Dhabi
- Elf The Musical at Etihad Arena: Seasonal family stage performance
- Parades, workshops, and themed brunches: Citywide festive experiences
- Fireworks displays: Select venues celebrate New Year’s Eve with spectacular shows
Many markets also feature unique crafts, gifts, and gourmet treats, making them ideal for holiday shopping and leisure.
Christmas Markets Comparison Table
| Market | Location | Dates (2025) | Entry | Main Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yas Winter Fest | Yas Island | December (multi-day) | Ticketed | Arts, crafts, Santa, entertainment |
| Emirates Palace | Emirates Palace | Early & Late December | Free | Luxury crafts, food, live shows |
| Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village | Abu Dhabi Mall | 12 Dec – 5 Jan | Free/Pay at venue (Santa) | Stalls, workshops, parades |
| Al Maryah Island | The Galleria | 7–26 December | Free | Santa, crafts, performances |
| WEADS Jingle Bells Market | Le Royal Meridien | 30 November | Free | Local artisans, family activities |
| Snow Abu Dhabi | Reem Mall | 1–25 December | Paid | Indoor snow park, Santa |
| Yas Bay Waterfront | Yas Bay | December | Free | Food trucks, crafts, family fun |
Planning Tips
- Most markets run throughout December, with some events beginning in late November.
- Book workshops, performances, and festive brunches in advance to secure spots.
- Check official websites and social media for updates on timings and tickets.
- Prepare for both indoor and outdoor experiences; some attractions require pre-registration.
Key Takeaways
Abu Dhabi’s Christmas markets offer a delightful mix of luxury, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences. While grand events such as Yas Winter Fest and the festive celebrations at Emirates Palace stand out as the most spectacular, smaller artisan and food-focused markets bring a cosy and intimate festive atmosphere to different parts of the city.
Families can look forward to Santa’s Grotto, winter-themed workshops, and festive brunches that capture the true spirit of the season. With so much happening across the capital, a bit of early planning ensures you enjoy the very best of Abu Dhabi’s magical festive experience.
FAQs
The most popular ones are Yas Winter Fest, Emirates Palace Market, Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village, Al Maryah Island, and Snow Abu Dhabi.
Most outdoor markets are free. Paid entry is required for indoor attractions like Snow Abu Dhabi or certain workshops.
Yes, most major markets – including Yas Winter Fest, Abu Dhabi Mall, Snow Abu Dhabi, and Al Maryah Island- feature Santa visits.
The dates are Late November through early January, with peak activity in December. Check official websites for exact schedules.
Yes, including workshops, snow parks, rides, entertainment, and gift-giving from Santa at various markets.
