This is the season to be joyful, so get into the spirit with a shopping spree at one of the many winter markets that are springing up, giving a wide range of present ideas as well as the opportunity to sample international food and participate in fun family activities. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than meandering around Dubai’s Christmas markets. They’re a must-have addition to your holiday entertainment schedule, and they’re a terrific opportunity to do some Christmas shopping while soaking up the festive spirit. We’ve compiled a list of the greatest marketplaces to visit.
1. Winter Village Abu Dhabi Mall
Every day until Christmas Day, Santa and his elves will visit the Abu Dhabi Mall with surprises for families. Children can have their pictures taken with Santa and participate in craft sessions. A festive market with vendors selling accessories and handcrafted things is also available. Take advantage of the mall’s typical Christmas promotions as well.
• Until December 25. Visit: www.abudhabi-mall.com
2. Gingerbread-house, Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
Enrol the kids in a gingerbread home decorating session at the hotel to get them enthused about contributing to a wonderful Christmas. They will be able to utilise their imagination to create edible designs using chocolate, frosting, and sweets in the classes. The classes will be held at the Dolce Cafe for youngsters aged 4 to 12.
• From today until Thursday, from 4 pm each day; Dh175. Visit: www.ritzcarlton.com
Also Read: 10 Stunning Locations In UAE To Spend Festive Holidays Amid Nature
3. Christmas Market, Ripe Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi
On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, enjoy the cool weather as the community gathers in the park to celebrate the season. Ripe’s season’s seasonal event is a terrific way to ring in Christmas and the new year, with resident merchants and food trucks giving up holiday cheer.
• December 24 and 31. Visit: www.facebook.com/ripeuae
4. Ripe Market Dubai
Get your hands on some unusual gifts and one-of-a-kind décor from the merchants at these local markets. Keep your strength up while shopping for international snacks and desserts, as well as enjoying festive entertainment and music outside.
• Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Hotel, December 21 from 2 pm; Zabeel Park, December 23 from 9 am; Barsha Pond Park, December 24 from 3 pm. Visit: www.facebook.com/ripeuae
Also Read: UAE Is Adapting A Four-And-A-Half-Day Workweek With Saturdays And Sundays Off!
5. Riverland Dubai’s Festive Season
To kick off the holiday season, Dubai’s newest entertainment destination has been decked out with Christmas trees and glittering lights. Riverland, part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, is having a winter market at the Riviera Plaza, complete with pop-up shops and food booths, as well as exciting activities and seminars for children. They will also have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus.
• Until January 7. Visit: www.dubaiparksandresorts.com
6. Christmas Weekend for Truckers Dubai’s Emirates Golf Club
Start the festivities by attending Food Truck Jam’s unique event, which will run from noon to midnight every day over the Christmas weekend. Enjoy fresh food concepts while resting on the grass to the sounds of live music performed by local musicians.
• December 23 to 25, from 12 pm; Dh50, tickets available from www.800tickets.com. Visit: www.facebook.com/truckersdxb
7. Maison Mathis Arabian Ranches, Dubai, Santa’s Grotto
Tomorrow, Santa will visit this Belgian restaurant to take the children’s requests. If Santa agrees that they have been good this year, they can have their picture taken with him and receive a present. On Tuesday night, Dubai City Sounds will perform carol singers at the venue.
• Santa’s grotto: Tomorrow, from 3 pm; Carols: Tuesday from 7 pm. Visit: www.facebook.com/MaisonMathisARGC/
8. Winter Festival Al Majaz Waterfront
Sharjah will put up a snow spectacle to give the waterfront celebration a true winter vibe. Each day of the three-week festival, a range of activities are available, ranging from ice skating lessons in the East Events Circle area to an inflatable maze for children. There will also be an artificial ice tube slide and a variety of food vendors with healthy options for the whole family.
• Until January 7. Visit: www.facebook.com/AlMajazWF
