Activities & Weather for Dubai in December

Renowned for its beaches, hot weather and luxury hotels, it’s no wonder Dubai is one of our most popular holiday destinations! But how does it hold up in the winter months, and what’s it like to spend Christmas in the City of Gold?

 

Dubai in December is a hive of activity, with everything from shopping festivals offering unbeatable discounts to exclusive New Year’s Eve Gala Dinners and parties. And with great weather and special offers, visiting the city over the winter months gets even better.

 

Want to know what the weather is like? What is there to do in December? Which are the best places to stay?, Or even just checking the temperature in Dubai. Browse below and you’ll find all the answers to your questions. And if you’re wondering about what Dubai is like the rest of the year, check out our full guide on the best time to visit Dubai.

 

Weather in Dubai in December

Expect highs of between 25°C to 28°C in the day, and lows of 16°C to 19°C at night. Dubai’s humidity in December usually sits around the 60% mark, and the likelihood for sunshine is approximately 75%. This makes it perfect for those who want to get outside and explore, with temperatures in the day that even allow for some sunbathing – by European standards!  

 

Wondering how Dubai’s December weather compares to other holiday destinations? We've rounded up some of the most popular hotspots for winter sun during the festive season below:

 

Destination  Average High Temperature Average Low Temperature Expected Rainfall 
Dubai 26°C  16°C 4 days 
London, UK 7°C 3°C 17 days 
Bridgetown, Barbados  28°C  24°C  14 days 
Orlando, Florida, USA 23°C 10°C 10 days 
Cancun, Mexico  28°C 21°C 7 days 

 

Celebrating Christmas in Dubai

Of course, you can! Throughout the month you’ll find a wide range of activities taking place, including The Dubai Shopping Festival – great for any last minute Christmas shopping. With huge discounts on high-end fashion, jewellery, electronics and more (some items are marked down by as much as 90% during December and January!) Plus, a host of promotions are held in the malls during the shopping festival with the chance to win all sorts of prizes, from cars to spending money.

 

In addition to the Dubai Shopping Festival, there are plenty of festive celebrations to look forward to in December. From special Christmas Day brunches to themed afternoon teas and dinners – and because Dubai is home to over 200 different nationalities, you’ll enjoy festive meals from all over the world.

 

There are also the exciting Christmas-themed festive markets at St. Regis Dubai, the Santa Shuffle bar crawl, the Great British Christmas Ball – complete with Yule log and Christmas pudding – and the Dubai Winter Festival, the largest weekend of festive fun in Dubai!

 

Souk Madinat Jumeirah has a special winter wonderland theme set up with snowball fights for the kids, a cookie garden and roasted chestnuts. You’ll feel as though you’re enjoying a white Christmas even when the sun is shining. Our favourite? Atlantis, The Palm holds special Santa workshops and even enjoys visits from Father Christmas himself.

 

 

Can I find somewhere for Christmas dinner in Dubai?

For Christmas lunch on the day itself, our personal recommendation is Bread Street Kitchen & Bar at Atlantis, The Palm. 

 

This Gordon Ramsay restaurant offers the quintessential Christmas brunch with all of the trimmings, including a choice of roast turkey, vegetarian Wellington or – for those looking for something less traditional – seafood. 

 

As you would expect, there’s also a huge range of starters to choose from, as well as a cheese and bread station. For dessert, we hear the Eton Mess is especially good! For more information check out our Food and Drink guide.

 

Celebrating New Year in Dubai 

There's nothing quite like seeing in the New Year in this incredible city. You'll find a variety of events and experiences going on across Dubai's hotels and we've handpicked a number of our favourite places to spend New Year’s Eve...

 

New Year's Eve Royal Gala, (Atlantis, The Palm)

Starting at 7:30pm, the New Year’s Eve Royal Gala at Atlantis, The Palm is one of the most prestigious events in Dubai’s calendar. Live music starts at 8pm and there is free-flowing alcohol (including champagne) all night, as well as a luxury buffet serving caviar, lobster and sushi as just a few of the culinary delights. And be sure to bring your very best attire, as this event has a strict dress code!

 

Under the Stars Gala Dinner

The world-famous Under the Stars Gala Dinner held on the beach is an unparalleled celebration with champagne, canapés and live music. Plus there’s even a special Under the Sea area for little ones complete with a jumping castle and outdoor cinema. 

New Years from At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa 

At.mosphere on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa boasts an array of dining options, plus entertainment by the restaurant's resident violinist. Dining options include the choice of a seven or eight-course meal, with Loch Fyne scallops to wagyu beef fondue on the menu, complemented by champagne, of course and all served 442 metres above the city. 

 

New Year's Eve Gala Dinner and Party (Jumerah Zabeel Saray)

 

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hosts some world-class New Year’s Eve celebrations from lavish dinners to parties that go on into the early hours. Expect world-class entertainment from dancers and gymnasts ending with a spectacular fireworks display once the clock chimes midnight. 

 

Where to stay in Dubai in December

When it comes to hotels in Dubai, no matter your budget you'll enjoy luxury accommodations as standard. Here are our top recommendations for hotels during the festive season.

Best for Christmas

Hotel: One&Only Royal Mirage

Star Rating: 5-star

Often considered one of the best hotels in Dubai – and a firm Best at Travel favourite – One&Only Royal Mirage sits directly on the sands of Jumeirah Beach and is made up of three distinct properties, though is surprisingly intimate. Experience Christmas in luxury, with spacious rooms and suites, nine incredible restaurants and chic swimming pools. Plus, menus are full of festive flavours and seasonal specialities at this time of year, as well as plenty of Christmas-themed activities that little ones will love including Christmas card making and gingerbread house decorating, making a worthwhile stay in Dubai in December

Best for New Year

Hotel: Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Star Rating: 5-star

With its stand-out wave-shaped design, Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in Dubai, and a popular choice for families all year round thanks to its excellent Half Board dine-around plan and unlimited complimentary entry to Wild Wadi Waterpark™. And as part of the wider Madinat Jumeirah Resort – set right in front of the Burj Al Arab – you can expect some of the best views of the city’s fireworks, as well as New Year’s Eve dinners in a number of restaurants usually with free-flow food and drink including champagne.

 

There are so many reasons to visit Dubai in December. Looking for a great deal? Browse our range of hotel offers here