Every December, Dubai comes alive with festive cheer. The Christmas market Dubai 2025 lineup is larger and livelier than ever, combining lights, music, crafts, and family-friendly activities. From traditional wooden chalets and giant Christmas trees to themed workshops and gingerbread decorating, there is something for everyone.
Blending classic European Christmas traditions with Dubai’s contemporary charm, these markets offer something for everyone. With pleasant winter evenings averaging around 25°C, visitors can enjoy exploring the markets, savouring hot chocolate, or taking an abra ride with Santa along the scenic waterways.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- A quick overview of Christmas markets in Dubai
- The top Christmas markets and festive villages to visit in 2025
- Planning your visit
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Quick Overview of Christmas Markets in Dubai
Dubai’s Christmas markets have evolved into multi-sensory festive experiences, offering far more than shopping. Visitors can enjoy interactive workshops, live performances, and themed attractions that bring the holiday spirit to life. Many markets also feature family-friendly rides, ice-skating areas, and immersive décor, making them ideal destinations for all ages.
The city’s markets successfully combine traditional European elements, such as handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats, with Dubai’s modern flair, including waterfront settings, illuminated installations, and luxury shopping experiences. This unique blend, paired with the comfortable winter weather, makes strolling through Dubai’s festive markets a truly memorable way to celebrate the season.
If you want to stay close to the city’s best festive events, browse apartments for rent in Dubai Marina or villas for rent in Dubai Hills Estate for easy access to the winter attractions
Top Christmas Markets & Festive Villages for 2025
From charming markets to grand festive villages, Dubai’s 2025 Christmas celebrations promise joy for all.
1. Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market 2025
Madinat Jumeirah remains a highlight of Dubai’s holiday season. Its iconic canals and fairy-lit pathways create a magical setting for families and travellers alike.
Location: It is located in Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Dates: 5th – 31st December 2025
Entry: Free
Timings:
- Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM till late
- Friday – Sunday: 12:00 PM till late
Visitors can enjoy a 36-foot Christmas tree, quaint wooden stalls with handmade gifts, festive treats, and abra rides with Santa. The market also features a Venetian carousel and a North Pole Train for children, alongside live entertainment and carol singing.
Madinat Jumeirah is often described as the best Christmas market in Dubai due to its enchanting mix of Arabian architecture and festive European charm.
2. Winter City at Expo City Dubai
For those seeking immersive experiences, Winter City at Expo City Dubai is a must-visit. The market offers a creative twist on festive celebrations with larger-than-life installations and interactive activities.
Location: It is located in Al Wasl Avenue – Madinat Al Mataar, Dubai South, Dubai
Dates: 6th – 31st December 2025
Entry: AED 40 (Adults); Free for children under 5 and People of Determination
Timings: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Al Wasl Dome transforms into a giant North Pole-themed toy factory, while visitors can meet Santa, participate in family workshops, and explore interactive festive zones. There is also music, seasonal food stalls, and performances for all ages.
Winter City offers immersive holiday experiences, making it one of Dubai’s most unique Christmas destinations.
3. Dubai Festival City Mall – “The Bay by Social”
Another festive favourite is Dubai Festival City Mall, featuring its signature waterfront Christmas setup known as “The Bay by Social.” The market combines scenic views with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Location: It is located in Dubai Festival City Mall – Dubai Festival City – Dubai
Dates: 12th December 2025 – 1st January 2026
Entry: Free (some attractions may be ticketed)
Visitors can enjoy Christmas-themed food, live music, and light displays across the waterfront. The area also features special performances, making it a perfect evening destination for families or couples.
“The Bay by Social” is ideal for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly festive experience in a convenient central location.
Other Noteworthy Christmas Markets
Dubai has several other festive options, each with its own charm. For instance, the Queen Elizabeth 2 Winter Wonderland provides a floating market experience aboard the iconic cruise ship, complete with themed food, kids’ activities, and live entertainment.
At Habtoor Palace Christmas Market, you can enjoy a European-style festive village with carol singing and themed events, while JLT Park Christmas Market caters to the local community with food stalls and live music.
Each market offers a distinct experience, allowing visitors to explore both large-scale spectacles and intimate neighbourhood festivities.
Planning Your Visit
Planning ahead ensures you make the most of Dubai’s festive markets.
Entry Fees & Budgeting:
- Madinat Jumeirah: Free entry; rides and workshops may be ticketed separately.
- Expo City Dubai: AED 40 for adults; children under 5 free.
- Festival City and community markets: Mostly free; some attractions may charge a small fee.
Travel Tips:
- Visit weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
- Book popular venues or events in advance due to high demand during December.
- Consider hotel staycations near Madinat Jumeirah or Festival City for easy access.
- Bring a light jacket for breezy December evenings.
Dubai’s Christmas markets are perfect for families, couples, and visitors of all ages, blending tradition with innovation and Arabian luxury.
Key Takeaways
Dubai’s festive celebrations are spread across a range of enchanting venues, each offering its own unique charm. Madinat Jumeirah continues to stand out as the city’s most beloved Christmas market, known for its fairytale setting, family-friendly attractions, and breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab.
Winter City at Expo City Dubai brings the magic of the season to life through immersive installations, themed zones, and interactive activities suitable for all ages. Over at Dubai Festival City Mall, visitors can enjoy a lively waterfront market filled with seasonal dining, live entertainment, and spectacular light shows.
Meanwhile, more intimate markets such as Habtoor Palace and QE2 Wonderland deliver elegant, creative holiday experiences in distinctive settings.
Most Christmas markets across Dubai are free to enter, with small costs applying to select rides, workshops, or premium festive experiences.
You can also explore nearby festive hubs like Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah, both offering stunning Christmas decorations and easy access to major holiday markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Most begin in early December and continue until New Year’s Day.
Madinat Jumeirah is free; Expo City Dubai charges AED 40 for adults. Other markets are mostly free, with some attractions ticketed.
Yes. Markets include rides, workshops, and activities for children, plus safe, outdoor environments.
Absolutely. Visitors can enjoy European-style treats, handmade crafts, and festive decorations.
Yes, especially for popular workshops, performances, or Santa meet-and-greets at Expo City.
