Christmas 2024: Where to celebrate in the UAE

From lavish hotel brunches adorned with seasonal specialties to intimate gatherings at fine dining restaurants, the UAE offers a diverse array of celebrations to suit every palate

Cucina

Celebrate Christmas Eve at Cucina with a festive brunch featuring family-style starters and holiday favourites such as roasted turkey with all the trimmings. Enjoy antipasti, focaccia, pizzas, homemade pastas, and artisanal cheeses, along with interactive stations like the Gelateria for sweet treats. The Spritz Bar will offer refreshing beverages while a live jazz Italian trio creates a festive atmosphere, and Santa makes a special appearance. On Christmas Day, indulge in a festive feast with family-style starters, signature roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and freshly made pastas. The celebration continues with live cooking stations, a visit to the Gelateria for festive desserts, and activities for kids, ensuring a memorable holiday for all.

Christmas Eve: December 24, from 7:30pm-10:30pm. AED350 per person including buffet and soft beverages. AED450 per person including buffet with sparkling and house beverages. AED695 per person including buffet with house beverages and bubbly. AED180 for kids 6-12 years old, AED95 for kids 3-5 years old, and 0-2 years dine for free. Christmas Day Brunch: December 25, from 1:30-4:30pm. AED395 per person including buffet and soft beverages. AED495 per person including buffet with sparkling and house beverages. AED695 per person including buffet with house beverages and bubbly. AED180 for kids 6-12 years old, AED95 for kids 3-5 years old, 0-2 years dine for free.

Call +971 4 666 1408 or email reservations@cucinadubai.com.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai

Celebrate the magic of Christmas at the Christmas Brunch brimming with live stations, festive dishes, and themed beverages. Don’t miss Santa’s arrival, live performances, kids’ activities, and carolling.

Palm Kitchen. December 25, from 1pm-4:30pm. AED499 including soft beverages. AED649 including house beverages. AED199 per child aged 6-12 years old. Call +9714 275 4444. Visit website or Instagram.

Flow Kitchen 

Experience the joy of Christmas with a perfect family day at Flow Kitchen, featuring a lavish buffet of traditional holiday dishes, including succulent roasts and festive favourites. Enjoy live entertainment to enhance the celebration, while children delight in an array of desserts and a surprise visit from Santa, spreading joy and holiday magic for a memorable Christmas celebration.

December 25, from 1-4:30pm. Indoors: AED 420 per person inclusive of soft beverages, AED 575 per person inclusive of house beverages, AED 625 per person inclusive of sparkling beverages, and AED 150 for children ages 3-12 years. Call +971 4 457 3457 or email palm.dining@fairmont.com. Visit website.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

 

Guests are invited to step into an enchanting Frozen Christmas wonderland at the Once Upon Brunch on Christmas Day, where the venue is transformed into a dazzling winter scene filled with glistening decorations. Indulge in a sumptuous buffet, enjoy live music and engaging activities suitable for all ages, and look forward to a special appearance by Santa Claus, who will bring gifts for the children.

December 25, from 1-4pm. From AED490 per person. 

Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi

This Christmas, guests can look forward to a festive celebration at Terra Mare Restaurant, where a lively atmosphere is enhanced by holiday music from a DJ and saxophonist. The celebration features a diverse selection of international dishes prepared at live cooking stations, while children eagerly await a visit from Santa, who will bring gifts for everyone.

December 25, from 12:30-4pm. From AED300 per person. Call +9712 498 0000.