Get into the holiday vibe with these epic tree lighting events happening in Dubai!
If you’re counting down to Christmas, Dubai’s got you covered with all the festive fun you can handle. From Christmas markets and live shows to over-the-top feasts on Christmas Eve and Day, the city is totally ready for the holiday hustle. And to kick off the season, there’s nothing more enchanting than a Christmas tree lighting ceremony!
Check out these 13 must-see Christmas tree lighting events happening in Dubai!
December 3: The Irish Village
The iconic Irish Village, a staple in Dubai, is hosting one of the biggest and most beloved tree lighting ceremonies this year on Tuesday, December 3. Starting at 7 PM, this free-entry event is all about festive vibes with mulled wine, mince pies, carols from St Mary’s Filipino Choir, and, of course, the grand moment of lighting up their massive outdoor Christmas tree!
The Irish Village, Garhoud, 7pm, Tuesday December 3, free. theirishvillage.com
December 4: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi
Embrace the holiday magic at The Westin’s Conservatory as they unveil their dazzling Christmas tree! Enjoy a festive atmosphere complete with delicious seasonal bites and drinks that bring the holiday cheer to life.
Conservatory at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, 5.30pm, Wednesday December 4, free. @westindubai
December 6: Dubai Racing Club
Make your way to Meydan on Friday, December 6, where, alongside the thrilling racing action, you’ll find plenty of festive fun at the Christmas Village! Expect a visit from Santa, carol singers, a snow globe photo booth, and the grand switch-on of the glittering Christmas tree.
Dubai Racing Club, Meydan, 5.30pm, Friday December 6, Dhs65 adults, Dhs50 children. dubairacingclub.com
December 6: Park Hyatt Dubai
The stunning Mediterranean-Moorish Park Hyatt Dubai kicks off the holiday season with its magical tree lighting ceremony on December 6. Head over to the piazza at 6:30 PM to witness the enchanting Christmas tree lighting, accompanied by traditional carols, roasted chestnuts, and a special visit from Santa and his reindeer!
Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek Resort, 6.30pm, Friday December 6, free. dubaicreekresort.com
December 6: QE2 Dubai
Hop aboard the legendary QE2 floating hotel in Dubai for a festive tree lighting ceremony on Friday December 6. Expect Christmas carols, festive cheer and a special surprise from Santa as the tree at the Pavilion is illuminated for the first time this season. After the tree lighting, there’s also the option to enjoy a festive-themed dinner buffet at Lido Restaurant.
QE2 Dubai, Mina Rashid, 4pm, Friday December 6, Dhs50 adults, Dhs30 children aged six to 12, Dhs195 including festive dinner buffet. Tel: (0)4 526 8835. qe2.com
December 6: Shangri-La Dubai
Shangri-La Dubai is adding extra holiday sparkle to its grand lobby with a festive tree lighting ceremony on Friday, December 6, from 6 PM to 9 PM. The evening kicks off with Christmas carols, followed by delicious canapés, holiday drinks, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself.
Shangri-La Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, 6pm to 9pm, Friday December 6, free. shangri-la.com
December 6: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
This luxe Palm Jumeirah spot is adding purpose to its tree lighting event on Friday, December 6. Along with the enchanting tree illumination, festive treats, and carols, attendees are encouraged to bring toys to donate, which will be gifted to children in need.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Palm Jumeirah, 5pm to 7pm, Friday December 6, free. @tajpalmdubai
December 6: W Dubai – The Palm
Kicking off the holiday season on Friday, December 6, W Dubai – The Palm is hosting a stunning tree lighting ceremony starting at 6pm. Guests will be greeted with festive cookies and drinks, leading up to a jaw-dropping chandelier light and sound spectacle. Santa and his crew of elves will be perched on a throne, surrounded by gorgeous decor, keeping an eye on the celebrations and inviting everyone to share their Christmas wish lists.
W Dubai – The Palm, 6pm, Friday December 6, free. @wdubaipalm
December 7: Bab Al Shams
Trade the snow for sand at Bab Al Shams, the ultimate desert retreat, where the festive spirit is in full swing. On Saturday, December 7, the resort’s stunning Christmas tree will light up during a celebration at Zala Lawn, featuring live entertainment, carolers, and cozy winter classics like mulled wine and hot chocolate. And, of course, Santa will be there, spreading joy with toys and treats for the little ones.
Bab Al Shams, a Rare Finds Resort, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, 6pm to 8pm, Saturday December 7, Dhs100.Â
December 7: Fairmont The Palm
The tree lighting at Fairmont The Palm is a beloved holiday tradition, open to both hotel guests and the public, happening this year on Saturday, December 7. Enjoy the harmonious tunes of a Christmas Choir, be entertained by a playful Pantomime Show, and look out for a surprise visit from Santa himself. Everyone, young and old, can indulge in mouthwatering festive treats, adding an extra dose of holiday cheer to the celebration.
Fairmont The Palm, 4pm to 6pm, Saturday December 7, free. @fairmontthepalm
December 10: Raffles The Palm
The glittering Christmas tree by the pool at the stunning Raffles The Palm will light up on Tuesday, December 10, from 7pm to 9pm. Expect a heartwarming evening with a children’s choir, a festive buffet, and bar stations that give off major Christmas market vibes. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be making a special appearance. This event is exclusive to in-house guests.
Raffles The Palm, 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday December 10, free. raffles.com
December 13: JA The Resort
JA Beach Hotel will light up its stunning Christmas tree at Palmito Garden on December 13, inviting everyone to join the festive fun. Enjoy a live carol performance by the beach, along with a spread of hot and cold festive bites and refreshing drinks. A DJ will keep the holiday vibes going with all your favorite tunes, while kids can get creative decorating gingerbread houses before Santa makes a special appearance.
Palmito Garden, JA The Resort, Jebel Ali, 6pm to 8pm, Friday December 13, Dhs150 per person, additional Dhs150 for gingerbread house decorating. Tel: (0)4 814 5604. @jatheresort
December 14: Jumeirah Golf Estates Clubhouse
Get ready for a festive day packed with fun for the whole family at Jumeirah Golf Estates’ annual tree lighting on Saturday, December 14. From 5pm to 8pm at Earth Terrace, watch in awe as the tree lights up, sing along to Christmas carols, and let the kids enjoy face painting and a bouncy castle. And don’t forget to look out for Santa and his cheerful elves!
Earth Terrace, Jumeirah Golf Estates Clubhouse, 5pm to 8pm, Saturday December 14, free. dubaigolf.com
