Dubai is adding a brand-new event to its festive calendar this winter. The first-ever DXB Winter Festival will take over the waterfront at Dubai Festival City Mall from December 1, 2026, to January 10, 2027, bringing a large outdoor Christmas market-style celebration to the city.
Dubai Is Getting A Brand-New Winter Festival
What To Expect
Taking up 20,000 square metres of waterfront space, the festival will bring together more than 150 vendors, including independent makers, festive food stalls and open-air cafés. The event takes inspiration from European Christmas markets, with visitors able to wander through market streets surrounded by seasonal décor.
A giant Christmas tree will take centre stage, while a funfair will add rides and attractions to the mix. The waterfront setting is also expected to make the festival a popular spot for evening visits during the cooler winter months.
Fun For The Whole Family
There will be plenty happening for younger visitors, including a Santa’s grotto, creative workshops and fairground rides. Families can also head to the main stage for live performances, with music, festive parades and other entertainment scheduled throughout the event.
The programme will change across the festival period, with special celebrations planned for UAE National Day, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. That means there will be different reasons to return as the season progresses.
Dates And Timings
DXB Winter Festival opens on December 1 and continues until January 10, giving visitors more than five weeks to drop by.
On weekdays, the festival will open from 4pm until midnight, while weekend hours will run from 2pm to midnight. The timings make it possible to visit after work during the week, while families can start earlier on weekends and make more of the afternoon.
Early-Bird Tickets
Ticket prices have not been announced yet, but visitors can already register for an early-bird offer. The festival is releasing a limited allocation of 10,000 early-bird tickets with a 25 per cent discount.
Those who register will receive a discount code to use once tickets go on sale. As the offer is limited to 10,000 tickets, registering early could be worthwhile if you already have a festive visit in mind.
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Plan Your Visit
With UAE National Day, Christmas and New Year’s Eve all taking place during the festival, DXB Winter Festival is set to offer a packed seasonal programme across its run. If you want to make use of the early-bird deal, registering ahead of the ticket launch is the best way to secure access to the discount code.
Where: Waterfront beside Dubai Festival City Mall
When: December 1, 2026 to January 10, 2027. Weekdays, 4 pm to midnight. Weekends, 2pm to midnight
Cost: Ticket prices to be announced. A 25 per cent early-bird discount will be available on 10,000 tickets
Cover Image Courtesy: DXB Winter Festival/Website
FAQs
How much are tickets?
Prices haven't been announced. There's a 25 per cent early-bird discount on 10,000 tickets, and you can register now at dxbwinterfestival.ae to get a discount code.
What's at the festival?
More than 150 vendors across 20,000 square metres, a giant Christmas tree, a funfair, Santa's grotto, creative workshops, a main stage and festive parades.