Christmas in the UAE was usually a subtle affair. Family dinners, not-so-chaotic shopping, and church bells ringing at midnight were all one could expect growing up in the UAE. But over time, as the city grew, so did the hype and the expectations of a festive holiday season. Now spiced hot chocolates are expected, Advent calendars are the norm, Christmas markets are everywhere, and every retail, restaurant, and hotel lobby comes with a lit-up tree. It brings the holiday spirit alive. But what about the day of? We round up spots in Dubai that continue the merry festivities with limited edition menus, festive packages, and yearly Christmas experiences.
Aura Bakery & Café | Al Wasl Rd
Celebrating an Italian Christmas, those at Aura Bakery & Café can expect a cosy Christmas filled with the scent of freshly baked goods. For the month of December, expect a limited edition festive menu which includes a Christmas Tree Croissant filled with raspberry and cream and decorated with marshmallows; a traditional Milanese delicacy called the Panettone; and of course, festive drinks such as the Christmas Ice Matcha Tree.
Ella’s Eatery | Palm Jumeirah
Bringing festive flavours to the table, Ella’s Eatery plans to celebrate Christmas with a hearty festive menu! Expect flavourful starters such as goat cheese croquettes with fig compote or smoked salmon with dill sauce and dark rye bread; comforting mains such as roast turkey or lamb shank with lamb gravy; and desserts such as a Basque burnt cheesecake or a Christmas Eton Mess, where each spoonful is dripped in decadence to end the holiday on a sweet note.
Boldly Asian | Fairmont The Palm
Turning Christmas Eve into a night with high spirits and high energy, Boldly Asian stays true to their name for the festive holiday. Expect a special festive menu featuring “bold” flavours and drinks, as well as a live DJ setting the rhythm for the night.
The Fore | Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
While normally reserved for in-house guests of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, on December 25, The Fore’s doors will be open for all. Presenting their infamous Fore Breakfast, diners will get to experience the classic global flavours that have been reimaged for the holiday.
Sonara Camp | Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
A desert escape for Christmas? Why not! Christmas in the Gulf means experiencing the winter holiday in ways you never experienced before, and Sonara Camp makes sure that’s the case. Taking guests to golden dunes, those at Sonara Camp can expect a desert drive before making themselves cosy by a fireplace, indulging in a three-course sharing menu, and visiting the camp’s mini Christmas market.
Brunello | Kempinski Hotel Palm Jumeirah
Italian restaurant, Brunello, has transformed its space into red and gold for a family-friendly Christmas. On December 24, guests can expect a Mediterranean buffet and live performances while kids get their own fun with dedicated activities, including a visit from Santa. Whereas on the day of, diners can indulge in a festive brunch, complete with live cooking stations. Once again, kids get their own space with family-friendly entertainment.
Level 19 Lounge & Bar | Park Regis Kris Kin Dubai
Perched atop the 19th floor, Level 19 offers an escape high off the city. Toasting the season with two Festivel Party Bundles, bundle 1 is designed for relaxed get-togethers, featuring Christmas staples paired with drinks. Whereas bundle 2 brings a global spin to the holiday feast, featuring bites from all over the world and drinks that arrive in towers, to mark the festivities.
OAnjo | Sheraton, Mall of The Emirates
If you’ve never experienced Nikkei—AKA Japanese-Peruvian fusion—cuisine before, let this season be the year of trying something new. Located at Sheraton, Mall of The Emirates, OAnjo is an elegant rooftop restaurant that brings the best of Japanese and Peruvian flavours. For Christmas, OAnjo is celebrating with a three-course festive menu that showcases the balance between the two cultures, alongside a stunning panoramic view of Dubai’s skyline.
The Beach JBR
For a full day of family-friendly fun, those at The Beach JBR can experience a visit from Santa and his elves, indulge in a diverse dining scene complete with festive menus, and end the holiday with a drone show that lights up the sky at 8 PM and 10 PM.
FALCONE | Al Barsha
Celebrating their first Christmas in Dubai, the Italian pizzeria is bringing its red-sauce traditions from home to the Gulf. With its Red Sauce Christmas Menu, expect comforting flavours paired with quintessential Italian hospitality and warmth. Available all day on December 24-25, the menu is a sharing menu for two, with plenty of antipasti, pastas, pizzas, and freshly churned gelato to share.
Christmas Performance by EZOW | The Room at IRIS
Calling all the hip-hop fans, Emirati artist EZOW is set to perform on December 25 at The Room at IRIS. As an emerging voice within the region, EZOW delivers heartfelt performances that highlight the blend between Middle East hip hop and soulful storytelling. While unconventional for Christmas, it’s a way to both celebrate the holiday and local talent.
