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Rave's top Winter Break Picks in the UAE

by Rave Staff

19 Dec 2024

19 December 2024

Winter in the UAE is a magical time filled with festive cheer, dazzling lights, and unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking to make the most of your winter break, we’ve rounded up some of the best activities and destinations to ensure your holiday season is one to remember. From festive markets to spectacular fireworks displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.


Christmas Market at Dubai Festival City Mall


Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at Dubai Festival City Mall’s Christmas Market. Located at the scenic Bay by Social, this festive destination is perfect for families and friends alike. The market features enchanting decor with giant candy canes, gingerbread houses, and sparkling lights. Carolers fill the air with holiday tunes, creating an atmosphere of pure joy.



  • Activities: Indulge in gingerbread-making workshops, face painting, and themed arts and crafts. Capture memorable moments at photo booths and visit Santa’s Grotto for a magical experience.

  • Food & Shopping: Treat yourself to seasonal delights like gingerbread cookies and cakes or explore the gourmet food stalls. Don’t miss the unique handmade ornaments and festive decor at the gift stalls.

  • Special Events: As part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, enjoy the daily firework shows at 9 PM from December 6 to January 12, with a grand midnight display on New Year’s Eve.


Location: The Bay by Social, Dubai Festival City Mall

Entry: Free (Some activities may have separate fees)

Dates: Until January 7, 2025


New Year’s Eve Extravaganza at Downtown Dubai


Ring in 2025 in style with Downtown Dubai’s spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. Known for its world-famous fireworks, this event combines cutting-edge pyrotechnics, laser shows, and mesmerizing music.



  • The Main Event: Watch The Dubai Fountain’s captivating light and water show leading up to a grand finale at midnight. Over 200 state-of-the-art light beams will illuminate the night sky in a nine-minute spectacle titled “Beyond Dreams.”

  • Best Viewing Spots: Book a table at restaurants in Souk Al Bahar or Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard for unobstructed views of the Burj Khalifa. Alternatively, spend the evening at Burj Park, which offers a carnival-like experience with live entertainment, food trucks, and kids’ workshops.

  • Tickets: Entry to Burj Park starts at Dhs580 for adults and Dhs370 for children, with under-fives entering for free. Book tickets here.


Old-World Charm at Al Seef


Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a touch of heritage at Al Seef, located by the historic waters of Dubai Creek. This picturesque district blends traditional charm with modern festivities.




  • Highlights: Enjoy waterfront dining with stunning views of the fireworks. Restaurants.

  • like Skafos serve Italian, Spanish, and Greek dishes.

  • Experience: Wander the winding streets of this historical corner and soak in the old-world charm while awaiting the arrival of 2025.


Luxury and Glamour at Atlantis, The Palm


For an opulent New Year’s celebration, head to Atlantis, The Palm. This iconic hotel is hosting a glamorous NYE gala dinner, headlined by none other than Lionel Richie.




  • Packages: Prices start from Dhs6,500 for adults and Dhs4,500 for children aged 4-13, with under-threes entering free.

  • Fireworks: Whether you’re attending the gala or enjoying the view from Palm Jumeirah, the vibrant fireworks display is not to be missed.

  • Nearby Spots: The Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk offers numerous vantage points for enjoying the festivities.

  • To book, visit dubai.platinumlist.net or Tel: (0)50 485 8805.


Beachside Fireworks at JBR and Bluewaters


Celebrate festive on the shores of Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) or Bluewaters Island, where vibrant fireworks and family-friendly fun await.



  • Dining: Book a table at restaurants like Catch22 or Bla Bla at The Beach for prime views.

  • Extras: Enjoy daily drone shows at 8 PM and 10 PM, running until January 12.

  • Unique Experience: Take a marine taxi from Marina Mall Station to see the fireworks from the water.

  • For more information visit https://www.thebeach.ae/en


A Fresh Celebration at J1 Beach



Dubai’s newest beach resort, J1 Beach, is pulling out all the stops for its first New Year’s Eve. With 13 venues offering panoramic views of the sky, it’s a prime spot to watch the fireworks and celebrate in style.


for more information visit here


Black Coffee at Dubai Harbour


GRAMMY-winning artist Black Coffee is set to return to Dubai Harbour on Saturday, December 28, 2024. Presented by The Night League and Studio A by Addmind Hospitality, this event promises a spectacular night of house, soul, African percussion, jazz, and electronic music.



  • About Black Coffee: Known for collaborations with stars like Alicia Keys, Drake, and Pharrell Williams, Black Coffee’s performances are highly anticipated worldwide. His residency at Hï Ibiza has redefined electronic music, making this Dubai event unmissable.

  • Event Highlights: Enjoy stunning sunset views, cutting-edge production, and an electric atmosphere. Following his previous Dubai performance, which drew over 15,000 attendees, this promises to be another unforgettable night.

  • Tickets: Available now on platinumlist.net. Secure your spot for this world-class music experience.


Winter Wonderland at The Galleria Al Maryah Island


Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Galleria Al Maryah Island’s Winter Wonderland until December 26, 2024. With festive activities, sparkling decorations, and family-friendly fun, it’s the ultimate destination for cherished memories.



  • Event Highlights: 

    • Tinsel Woods (6-26 December): Kids can join Candy Cane fishing, bauble painting, and gingerbread decorating.

    • Winter Wonderland (18-31 December): Enjoy stage shows, a snow park, ice-skating rink, and festive games.

    • Santa’s Grotto (6-26 December): Meet Santa, take photos, and send letters to the North Pole.

    • Light the Night (New Year’s Eve): A breathtaking fireworks and water show to ring in 2025.

    • visit The Galleria's Website  for more.


Winter Thrills at Jebel Jais


Celebrate the winter season at Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, with exciting adventures and festive events.



  • Festive Highlights:

    • Survival Course: A 24-hour challenge at Bear Grylls Camp.

    • Raining Santas: Free Jais Sledder ride for those in Santa costumes (December 21-22).

    • Festive Lunch at 1484 by Puro: AED 295 per person, paired with thrilling rides.

  • New Year’s Eve Camping: Celebrate under the stars with a BBQ dinner and overnight stay for AED 950 per person.

  • For more information visit www.visitjebeljais.com.


Liwa International Festival 2025


From December 13 to January 4, the Liwa International Festival in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region offers motorsports, cultural experiences, and family entertainment amidst the stunning Tal Moreeb dunes.



  • Motorsports Highlights: Freestyle Drift, Buggy Torque Challenge, Monster Jam, and Moreeb Dune Car Championship.

  • Family Fun: Carnival rides, petting zoo, escape room, and nightly fireworks.

  • Cultural Experiences: Camel racing, horse racing, falconry, and traditional crafts at Liwa Village Souk.

  • Nightlife: Concerts by top artists and a special New Year’s Eve performance.

  • Grab your tickets at www.liwavillage.ae.


Southern Spice Christmas Feast at Bombay Borough


Bombay Borough, the Indian bar and eatery in DIFC, is hosting a special 7-course ‘Southern Spice Christmas Feast’ from December 21st to 26th, curated by TV Chef Simy Mathews. The feast offers a modern twist on traditional South Indian dishes, using global ingredients and contemporary techniques to celebrate India's festive traditions.



  • Highlights: Key dishes include Lentil Vada, Panko-Crusted Tenderloin Croquettes, Kerala-style Pouch Biryani, and festive desserts like Plum Cake Flambé.

  • Pricing: AED 345+VAT with an optional beverage package for AED 175+VAT.

  • Reservations: Call (+971) 54 995 8296 to book your table.


New Year’s Eve at O Beach Dubai


O Beach Dubai promises an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31, 2024.



  • Headliners: DJ Fat Tony and singer Abigail Bailey will perform alongside O Beach Dubai’s resident entertainers.

  • Fireworks: Enjoy exclusive views of the JBR fireworks as you welcome 2025.

  • Packages: Early bird tickets start at AED 200 (including two drinks). A premium set menu with dance access is available for AED 600, and luxury seating packages start from AED 5,000, offering VIP cabanas, poolside beds, and garden sofas.

  • Timings: Event runs from 6 PM to 3 AM.

  • Reservations: Visit obeachdubai.com, email reservations@obeachdubai.com, or call 052 858 0464.


Indoor Paintball Fun at Singo Paintball


Singo Paintball, the UAE’s first indoor paintball facility, has opened at Wafi Mall, offering an action-packed experience for all ages.



  • Features: 

    • Thrilling games with 86 collapsing targets in a fully immersive indoor space.

    • Safety-focused environment with professional-grade gear, safety briefings, and on-site referees.

    • Gelly Ball: A low-impact paintball alternative for younger players.

    • Singo Shooting Range: Target-focused fun for all skill levels.

  • Pricing: Packages start at AED 99.

  • Extras: After the action, relax at Reload Cafe with food and drinks while watching ongoing games.

  • Perfect for: Birthdays, corporate team-building, and group competitions.

  • Location: Ground Floor, Wafi Mall

  • Details: Visit www.singopaintball.com.


Keto-Friendly Fun at Keto Kartel


This festive season, Keto Kartel presents an exclusive Anti-Santa Cake Decoration Workshop—a unique, keto-friendly experience offering indulgence without the carbs. Open from December 22 to 28 at Keto Kartel, DIFC, this interactive workshop allows participants to decorate cakes with keto-friendly toppings like nuts, berries, and chocolate in a luxurious setting.



  • Details: 

    • Dates: December 22 – 28

    • Duration: 1–2 hours

    • Price: AED 150 (includes coffee and decorated cake)

    • Location: Keto Kartel, DIFC

  • How to Book: Contact @keto.kartel via Instagram or WhatsApp at 054 247 8074 to reserve your spot.


Festive Delights at L’ETO and Secret Garden


L’ETO invites you to celebrate the holiday season with its festive menu, available from December 18th to January 15th at its City Walk branch. The menu features vibrant seasonal drinks and beautifully crafted desserts that capture the warmth of the season, perfect for lunch and dinner.


In addition, Secret Garden by L’ETO at Bluewaters has unveiled a refreshed menu, offering new options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Highlights include Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pancakes with sea-buckthorn cream and fresh berries, and Hashbrown with Salmon Gravlax. The Asian menu has also expanded with bold, authentic flavors.



  • Unique Experiences: Enjoy cozy terrace dining with serene views of the Dubai Eye. Signature festive cakes are also available for online orders, perfect for celebrations at home.

  • Availability: Festive menu is available at all L’ETO branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For details and orders, visit here.


Sonara Camp: Festive Celebrations in the Desert


This festive season, Sonara Camp invites you to celebrate festive season in the heart of the Arabian Desert. Enjoy festive haven, featuring dazzling décor, Christmas-themed activities, and holiday entertainment for the whole family.



  • Festive Family Fun: Children can enjoy arts and crafts, visits from Elsa the Ice Queen, and meet Santa at his Christmas grotto.

  • Christmas Celebrations (December 24 & 25):

    • Family-friendly activities like arts and crafts, Santa visits, and a live Christmas Wonderland show.

    • Indulge in a reimagined 3-course festive menu while enjoying activities like camel rides and sandboarding.

  • New Year's Eve Desert Masquerade Party: Lavish dining, live performances, and a thrilling fire show. Pricing starts at AED 1200 for adults

  • For more information and reservations, visit Sonara Camp.


Bollywood New Year’s Eve Party by AKS Night


Get ready for the most electrifying Bollywood New Year’s Eve party in Dubai! AKS Night is back with Dubai's biggest Bollywood NYE party at the stunning Soul Beach, JA Hotel, Jebel Ali, on 31st December 2024. This is the ultimate destination to ring in 2025 with a night filled with Bollywood beats, dazzling fireworks, and non-stop dancing under the stars.



Event Highlights:

  • DJ Lineup: Dance to the beats of Dubai’s hottest DJs—DJ Ace, DJ Harry, and DJ Manoj—spinning everything from classic Bollywood hits to the freshest chart-toppers.

  • Spectacular Fireworks: Watch the sky light up as fireworks add an extra sparkle to the night.

  • Exclusive VIP Experiences: For a more luxurious experience, reserve a VIP table or private cabana for you and your crew.

  • Date: 31st December 2024

  • Time: Doors open at 9pm

  • Venue: Soul Beach, JA Hotel, Jebel Ali

  • Entry: Starts from AED 129

  • Tickets: Available on Platinumlist

  • VIP Reservations: For VIP tables or private cabanas, contact: 0567771194


Festive Fun at Yas Marina


Yas Marina is ready to make your holiday season unforgettable with a range of festive activities running through 7 January 2025. The iconic marina will be transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a magical holiday experience for visitors of all ages.



Event Highlights:

  • Winter Wonderland: Marvel at the stunning decorations that bring the holiday spirit to life.

  • Roaming Entertainment: Enjoy live performances by the Soldiers of Musical Games, drummers on long sticks, and musicians, performing on the walkway on 15th, 21st, 22nd, and 24th December.

  • Santa’s Visit: Don’t miss Santa and his dwarves on Christmas Eve (24th December) from 4 pm to 8 pm, ready to meet all the good boys and girls.

  • Festive Photo Ops: Capture the perfect holiday moment by the snowball and Santa's sleigh, with the dazzling marina as your backdrop.

  • Dining Options: After all the festivities, satisfy your cravings with a variety of dining options at Mika, Cipriani, Diapleto, and Stars & Bars.

  • Admission: Free Entry: Enjoy all the festivities at no cost.

  • For more information visit their website.

 

Celebrate the Festive Spirit with Breakfast with Santa


This December, JLT’s much-loved neighbourhood café Splendour Fields is inviting families and loved ones to embrace the festive spirit with a joyful Breakfast with Santa on Thursday, December 21st, 2024.Located amidst the serene greenery of The Park, the charming spot is the perfect place for families to enjoy a morning filled with holiday cheer and delicious treats, creating unforgettable festive memories with the main man himself.



Details

  • Price: AED 120 per child

  • Date: Thursday, December 21st, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

  • Inclusions:

    • 1 Kids' Special Pancake

    • 1 Hot Chocolate or Baby Chino

    • 1 Soft Toy

    • A Picture with Santa


Tables must be booked in advance by WhatsApping +971 50 427 5217 or emailing hello@splendourfields.com.


 Chinawhite Sky Pool Dubai


Dubai’s latest luxe poolside venue, Chinawhite Sky Pool Dubai, is redefining the city’s social scene with high-energy ambiance, chic decor, and world-class entertainment. Located at Palm West Beach, it offers vibrant poolside gatherings, exclusive weekly offers, and live DJ performances.



  • Timings: Daily from 11 AM

  • Pricing: Single beds start at AED 200 (Sun-Thu) and AED 400 (Fri-Sat), redeemable on food and drinks

  • Reservations: Contact @chinawhiteskypooldubai on Instagram


Reformer Pilates at Matcha Club


Matcha Club, Dubai’s popular wellness hub in Al Quoz, has launched a brand-new Reformer Pilates studio, enhancing its fitness offerings.Already loved for its padel courts, movement rooms, cafe, and friendly community, Matcha Club adds another reason to visit.



  • Features: The serene studio includes seven reformer machines and a beautifully designed space with large mirrors, natural light, and views of greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere for all attendees. Classes are open to everyone, from beginners to pros, and led by top Pilates instructors in Dubai.

  • Launch Offer: Exclusive introductory package of three reformer Pilates classes for AED 250, with regular pricing at AED 140 per class.

  • Schedule: Up to eight daily classes, including a dedicated ladies’ session.

  • Bookings: Visit www.matcha-club.ae or call 04 548 8364.

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