It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Dubai, and tis the season to be jolly. Santa is on it way with his sack full of gifts, and here’s where you can spot him in Dubai. From luxury hotel grottos to beachside Santa sightings and snowy indoor wonderlands, Dubai’s Santa experiences come in all shapes. So here’s a list of the best Santa’s grottos in Dubai for 2025 that will surely leave your kids bragging rights for the year!
7 Best Santa’s Grottos In Dubai
1. Santa’s Grotto at Burj Al Arab
Families get ready to meet Santa inside the Burj Al Arab as part of a butler-led festive tour. The experience starts before you even walk in. You cross the private bridge, step into pure luxury, and suddenly Christmas feels royal.
You tour the Royal Suite, soak in views from the Observatory Lounge on the 25th floor. Finally, then you step into the main event. A private meet-and-greet with Santa that comes with photos and gifts.
It wraps up with festive drinks, and this is the perfect ending to the Dubai Christmas story.
Where: Jumeirah Burj Al Arab
When: December 1–30, 2025, Daily, 10 am–7 pm
Cost: AED 2,000 for a family of four, Extra adult: AED 369, Extra child: AED 199.
2. Santa’s Grotto at Kite Beach
Kite Beach hosts a laid-back Santa’s Grotto with a simple, laid-back vibe. Here, kids meet Santa, snap a photo, and walk away smiling. No long lines or indoor rush, just pure festive cheer with sandy feet.
The real win? Santa and his elves roam the beach, popping up across plazas and the Family Zone, handing out festive surprises.
Where: Plaza 1, Kite Beach
When: December 12, 13, 19, 20, 24, 25, 5 pm–9 pm
3. The Grotto Dubai At Mall of the Emirates
Set inside the New Covent Garden Theatre, this grotto runs like a mini Christmas play. Get children to follow elves through themed lands like Candy Cane Land and the Enchanted Forest. Kids complete small tasks, deliver letters, and finally meet Santa in his cabin. Everything runs on timed slots to avoid chaos and deliver maximum fun.
Where: Mall of the Emirates
When: December 16th- 25th, 10 am to 6:40 pm
Cost: Child: AED 165, Adult: AED 120
4. Santa Meet-&-Greet At MOTIONGATE™
If your kids need movement, colour, and a lot happening at once, MOTIONGATE™ understands the assignment. A massive 14-metre Christmas tree at MOTIONGATE™ welcomes you. Santa meets guests throughout the park while festive parades roll past with Shrek, Madagascar characters, elves, and full holiday energy.
Where: Dubai Parks and Resorts
When: From December 10th to January 11th
Also Read: 8 Best Christmas Eve Dinners In Dubai To Celebrate The Festive Season In Style
5. Santa’s Grotto at The Green Planet Dubai
Christmas in a biodome? The Green Planet sets up a surprisingly brilliant but cosy Santa’s grotto inside JNGL Restaurant. It’s surrounded by rainforest sounds, animals, and festive décor. Kids can bake cookies, post wish lists, and join hands-on activities. One wish even comes true on December 31. There’s also a festive Camping in the Rainforest option with overnight stays, marshmallows, workshops, and surprise gifts.
Where: Dubai Parks and Resorts
When: December 6–January 5
6. Surfing Santa At Wild Wadi Adventure
This is peak Dubai Christmas energy. Wild Wadi goes full festive, but the headline act is Surfing Santa. Get ready to witness Santa on a surfboard. From December 15 to January 5, Santa pops up around the park between DJ pool parties, hot chocolate breaks, and marshmallow stations. Kids up to eight enter free with a paying adult.
Where: Dubai Parks and Resorts
When: December 15 to January 5,
7. Meet Santa at Ski Dubai’s Winter Wonderland
Christmas is here with snow, elves, Santa, gloves, and, very importantly, hot chocolate. From December 1 to 25, Ski Dubai turns into a full Winter Wonderland where kids meet Santa surrounded by actual snow. The Meet Santa pass includes photos, gifts, fleece gloves, and a proper one-on-one moment.
There are also sensory-friendly sessions on December 15 with softer lighting and reduced noise. Early birds save 20% for early December visits.
Where: Mall of the Emirates
When: December 1 to 25
Cost: Early birds save 20%, AED 160 for Adults and Children above 2 years
Final Word
Dubai’s Santa’s grottos are magical. Whether you want luxury or adventure, this year Santa will make everyone’s wish come true at his grotto. Pick your magic, book early and get your kids a surprise they waited the entire year for.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Sean P. Twomey from Pexels