The UAE’s winter tourism season has officially returned, and the timing could not be better. Cooler weather, blue skies, and a packed events calendar are pulling global and local visitors outdoors and across emirates. From mid-December through April, the country transforms into one giant open-air playground.
UAE Winter Tourism Season Kicks Off With Festivals, Desert Adventures And Family Events
This year, the demand is rising from both international travellers and residents. After all, we are all eager to make the most of the mild climate. Outdoor festivals, heritage events, concerts, winter camps, and desert experiences now anchor the season. UAE’s position as a winter tourism giant is gaining momentum as mentioned in a report by Gulf Today.
Liwa And Abu Dhabi Set The Pace
Abu Dhabi leads the winter with the Liwa International Festival in the Al Dhafra region. Running from December 12 to January 3, the 23-day event blends heritage with spectacle. Expect dune sports at Tal Moreeb, cultural showcases, live performances, shopping zones, and music concerts set deep in the desert.
The emirate keeps families engaged beyond Liwa as the Winter Season Programme at Umm Al Emarat Park continues through April 2026.
Dubai Turns Winter Into A City-Wide Festival
Dubai’s winter calendar remains one of the busiest in the UAE. Global Village anchors the season with international pavilions and nightly entertainment. Not to forget the Dubai Shopping Festival, bringing in sales, concerts, fireworks, and large crowds.
Drone shows add an extra layer of sparkle this year, with two shows every evening from December 5 to January 11 at Bluewaters and The Beach opposite JBR. Expo City Dubai hosts Winter City, while winter markets at Madinat Jumeirah and Dubai Festival City keep the festive mood alive well into spring.
Mountains, Markets And Nature Escapes
Hatta steps into the spotlight with the Hatta Winter Festival running from December 5 to 28. Visitors can combine adventure and culture through mountain biking, eco-tours, heritage markets, workshops, and outdoor activities framed by rugged landscapes.
Sharjah prepares a full calendar of winter events across Al Majaz Waterfront, Kalba, and Shees Park. From light displays, seasonal markets, to outdoor entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Ajman focuses on waterfront activities, while Umm Al Qaiwain attracts campers with its natural escapes.
From Beaches To Falcons, Winter Has Range IN UAE
Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah report strong winter demand across beaches and mountain areas. Also, it’s highly supported by sports and community events. Al Ain strengthens its winter presence with heritage programmes, oasis activities, and growing interest in Jebel Hafeet adventures.
Also Read: Expo City Dubai Launches Nature-Focused Winter Camp At Terra With Art, Science And Fun
Winter camps also play a major role. Desert camps, youth programmes, and educational initiatives across several emirates mix tourism with learning, creativity, and skills development.
The season’s cultural depth peaks with Falcon Racing at the Liwa International Festival, launching as one of its most anticipated events. Winter in the UAE isn’t a single event but a season in full swing.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Ziyad-AH from Getty Images
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