Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival in Dubai: Top Spots and places

Dubai lights up with lanterns, aromas of mooncakes, and the rhythmic sound of drums. The city embraces the Mid-Autumn Festival with cultural events, dining experiences, and community gatherings. The festival falls on 17 September 2025, with celebrations extending from 10 September to 6 October 2025, offering a full month of festivities for locals, expats, and visitors alike.

• Why does Dubai celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival?
• Top Spots to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Dubai
• Community Gatherings and Public Events
• Tips for experiencing the Festival in Dubai
• Comparison table: Top Mid-Autumn Festival spots in Dubai
• Key takeaways
• FAQs

Why does Dubai celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival?

Dubai is home to a vibrant Chinese and East Asian community. Restaurants, hotels, cultural centres, and public spaces host events that honour traditional customs while blending them with the city’s cosmopolitan energy. From lantern displays to tea ceremonies and live performances, the festival is both a cultural showcase and a celebration of family and togetherness.

Top Spots to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Dubai

1- Shangri-La Dubai – Shang Palace

Shang Palace transforms for the Mid-Autumn Festival, offering immersive dining and cultural experiences.

• Afternoon Tea with a Chinese Tea Master – Learn the art of brewing and tasting premium teas.
• Set Menu Specials and Dim Sum Lunch – Authentic flavours paired with festival-inspired presentations.
• Traditional Mooncakes – Available by the box or individually, featuring classic and contemporary fillings.
• Gongfu Tea Ceremony & Cultural Performances – Watch skilled tea masters and cultural acts while enjoying festive treats.
• Reservations & Pricing – Packages range from AED 48 to AED 418. Advance booking is recommended.

2- Atlantis The Palm  – Hakkasan, Dubai

Hakkasan Dubai curates a Michelin-star dining experience for the festival.

• Exclusive Eight-Course Set Menu – Each dish is crafted to celebrate seasonal ingredients and festival flavours.
• Mooncake Desserts and Unique Dishes – Contemporary interpretations of traditional treats.
• Booking Details & Timings – Available until 7 October 2025, with limited seating.

3- MiMi Mei Fair

MiMi Mei Fair celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival with an atmosphere where families and friends gather beneath the harvest moon to enjoy festive dining and traditional treats.

• Mooncake Selection – A curated assortment of handcrafted mooncakes to share, gift, or enjoy in the restaurant.
• Mid-Autumn Feasting Menu – Seasonal dishes prepared to celebrate the festival, designed for communal dining and tasting.
• Culinary Experience – Guests can savour a journey through delicate flavours, from traditional favourites to contemporary interpretations.
• Reservations & Pricing – Tentative pricing ranges from AED 150 to AED 400.
• Event Dates – 29 September – 12 October 2025

4- Taj Dubai – Miss Tess

Miss Tess Dubai offers a festive celebration under the harvest moon, combining vibrant Asian flavours, live entertainment, and handcrafted mooncakes in a warm, elegant setting.

• Sharing Menu – A menu designed for communal dining, featuring a selection of Asian-inspired dishes ideal for families and groups.
• Culinary Experience – Enjoy an evening of music, lantern-lit ambience, and a journey through seasonal delicacies highlighting the spirit of the festival.
• Reservations & Pricing – Tentative pricing ranges from AED 180 to AED 229 per person.
• Event Dates – 6 and 7 October 2025

5- Hutong Dubai

Hutong Dubai celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival with a journey through centuries of northern Chinese culinary artistry. Guests can enjoy delicate mooncakes that capture the warmth, symbolism, and flavour of this centuries-old tradition.

• Mooncake Selection – Handcrafted mooncakes showcasing traditional fillings and artistic presentation, perfect for sharing or gifting.
• Culinary Experience – The venue offers an immersive festival atmosphere, reflecting northern Chinese culture and festive rituals.
• Reservations & Pricing – Tentative pricing ranges from AED 150 to AED 400 per person.
• Event Dates – 22 September – 12 October 2025

Community Gatherings and Public Events

Dubai’s Chinese Cultural Centre and community groups host lantern releases, fan dances, acrobatics, and more. Visitors can experience:

• Traditional Foods & Festival Cuisine – Dim sum, barbecued meats, and sweet treats.
• Tea Ceremonies – Learn centuries-old customs brought to Dubai.
• Cultural Performances – Acrobatics, fan dances, and musical acts.
• Lantern Displays & Release Ceremonies – Colourful lanterns light the evening sky.

Explore more about getting a China Visa for UAE residents 

Tips for experiencing the Festival in Dubai

1. Book early – Limited seating at restaurants and special events fills quickly.
2. Family-friendly activities – Kid zones, workshops, and lantern-making sessions are widely available.
3. Gift giving etiquette – Mooncakes are ideal gifts; consider elegant packaging and timing.
4. Dress and cultural respect – Smart casuals with a nod to tradition are recommended.
5. Weather and timing – Evenings are ideal to catch lantern releases and outdoor performances.

Comparison table: Top Mid-Autumn Festival spots in Dubai

Key takeaways

Dubai’s Mid-Autumn Festival brings lanterns, mooncakes, and cultural performances to the forefront. Signature experiences include tea ceremonies, theatrical shows, and elaborate set menus. 

Advance bookings are essential for popular events, while family-friendly activities cater to all ages. The festival celebrates tradition and community, offering a window into Chinese heritage in the heart of Dubai.

FAQs

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