Things to do

On 2 December, the UAE celebrates National Day, marking the anniversary of the federal unification of the emirates that make up the country. UAE nationals – and many expats who have adopted Dubai as their home – show their appreciation of the country and its leadership by taking to the streets in parades. Visitors are welcome to join in. The camaraderie is infectious. 

Visitors can even see the room where the unification agreement was signed by the rulers of the Sheikhdoms, previously referred to as Trucial States, at the faithfully restored Union House. Built in the Sixties, history was inked here in 1971, and a new national identity was forged. 

Union House is now set within the grounds of the Etihad Museum, which charts the country’s development to the present day. Open daily from 10am to 8pm daily, its modern undulating edifice is inspired by the shape of the unification manuscript while its seven tapering columns symbolise the pens used by the Founding Fathers to sign it.

December is also a time for outdoor adventures. Try kayaking in the blissful stillness of Hatta Dam. A 90-minute drive from the centre of Dubai, Hatta is an enclave in the Hajar Mountains. The scenery is romantic, and there are kayaks designed for two. Pedal boats, water bikes and family-sized doughnut boats are also available. For a more adrenaline-pumping pursuit, jump out of a plane over Palm Jumeirah. Tandem parachute experiences are available at Skydive Dubai. 

Finally, don’t forget to do your Christmas shopping. The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) runs from 15 December 2023 to 29 January 2024, with bargains to be had in end-of-year sales, as well as prize draws and festive entertainment. 

If you only have 24 hours

Dubai lights up on New Year’s Eve, with its most famous fireworks display erupting from the façade of Burj Khalifa. Thousands gather to witness the spectacle that has been known to stop traffic. Elsewhere in the emirate, theme parks and the shoreline from Bluewaters Island to Burj Al Arab also play host to pyrotechnics. 

Events

Hosting the Men’s and Women’s HSBC World Rugby Series, Emirates Dubai 7s returns from 1 to 3 December at the Sevens Stadium. Join the crowds in colourful fancy dress as they cheer on their favourite teams and headline bands.

More live performances can be enjoyed from 8 to 10 December at Sole DXB. Taking over Dubai Design District, the festival celebrates music, culture and streetwear. It’s an on-trend destination to shop for the latest ‘sneakers’.   

Running over the same dates, from 8 to 10 December, Slava’s SnowShow will take over Dubai Opera. First performed in 1993, the physical comedy production, which culminates in clowns being caught in a blizzard, is made even more delightful by the sound of kids belly-laughing in the audience.

Where to eat

Voted number one in 2023’s Middle East and North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants listing, Orfali Bros Bistro is every inch a family affair with Syrian expat Mohammad Orfali on the pass and his brothers, pastry chefs Wassim and Omar Orfali, responsible for the Instagram-worthy desserts. Modern Levantine creations include shish barak à la gyoza, a Middle Eastern take on an Asian dumpling, and the pistachio bomb, a light and nutty layered confection made with pistachios from Aleppo. 

After sampling the flavours of Arabia, tuck into a traditional Christmas dinner. Just about every hotel in town will be serving a festive brunch. Expect banquets groaning under the weight of roast turkey and Christmas pud. Book well in advance.

Where to stay

The Palace Downtown is perfectly poised on the edge of Burj Lake, giving guests unparalleled views of Burj Khalifa, home to the world’s tallest fireworks display each New Year’s Eve. Try to secure a seat in Thiptara, the hotel’s Thai restaurant offers a front-row seat on its terrace. 

Address Beach Resort overlooks the fireworks that light up the skies off the coast of Dubai Marina. It’s also home to the world’s highest infinity pool and Dream Dubai, a high-octane dinner show that’s perfect for festive celebrations, featuring DJs, cabaret and acrobatics. 

If you prefer a quiet Christmas toasting marshmallows beneath the stars, book a mobile home at Sedr Trailers Resort in Hatta. The on-trend camper vans sleep two adults and two kids under eight, and come with en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi and televisions.

What to pack

Join in the National Day celebrations by wearing the UAE flag colours: red, white, green and black. Lightweight Christmas jumpers and festive party attire will be the dress code at brunch. Also, pack a jacket for the cooler evenings – especially if you’re out late watching the New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Insider: “Dubai comes alive in December with weekend boat trips around Palm Jumeirah and the endless options of al fresco dining. Christmas is an especially good time to book brunch. Munch on Southern Italian seafood outside on Alici's terrace during Dubai’s coolest winter months overlooking the Arabian Sea filled with people celebrating in yachts. Make sure to book a table on the upstairs terrace for the best views. For prime New Year’s Eve dinner locations, look to Sushisamba in The St Regis Dubai, The Palm for live bands and panoramic views that span Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, Atlantis the Palm and the New Year’s Eve fireworks.” Liam Collens, Founder, Eat Go See, @itsliamcollens, eatgosee.com

Broaden your horizons in Dubai 

In Dubai, you’ll find all the right ingredients for a sun-soaked trip. The sophisticated metropolis by the sea provides unforgettable experiences, from serene safaris in the desert to dining in the world’s tallest building.

Broaden your horizons with a trip that takes in its exhilarating mix of record-breaking architecture, traditional neighbourhoods and white sand beaches. You’ll return home with plenty of tales to share.

Find out more at, visitdubai.com