It’s the most wonderful time of the year. From brunches and festive foods to winter markets and holiday movies, here are our suggestions for the best Christmas 2021 in the UAE
Akira Back at THEATRE, Vox Cinemas
‘Tis the season for holiday movies, epicurean eats, festive desserts and hot chocolate. Indulge in festive favourites including a Burger with a juicy beef patty, sage and onion stuffing, brie and cranberry mayonnaise; a Bao with turkey, cranberry chutney, crispy sage and onions; or a Vegan bao with Impossible meat, red cabbage slaw and cranberry relish. Enjoy hot non-alcoholic wine with a mince pie for dessert, or sip on a tempting Hot chocolate topped with cinnamon and whipped cream.
December 6 to 31. AED25 onwards ( food or beverages only). Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Eve brunch, Hutong
Hutong is ringing in the festive season with a Black and Gold theme – two significant colours in Chinese culture. Elevate your merrymaking with a magical mocktail or creative sip and a sweet bao crafted in black and gold. Follow this with delicious dim-sums and fluffy bao buns, alongside a signature specials such as Yun Nan chicken stir-fried with a truffle sauce and Pan-fried sea bass. The feast ends with an assortment of stunning desserts, as you sway to tunes from a DJ.
December 24 from 12:30pm-4pm. AED288 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED388 per person (inclusive of house beverages, sparkling grape and creative concoctions) and AED588 per person (inclusive of premium, sommelier-selected grape or bubbly). Call +9714 220 0868. Visit the website or Instagram.
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Grab the kids and make your way to the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market this December. Enjoy 15 days of activities for the young and the young at heart. From a spectacular snow fight zone to a space for bungee jumping, there is something for all everyone. Even better, while the kids are off having fun and taking in the spirit of the occasion, the adults can indulge in an array of fabulous festive food and beverages.
Madinat Jumeirah Fort Island. December 16-30 on Sunday to Wednesday from 3pm-late and on Thursday to Saturday from 10pm-late. Free entry. Visit the website.
Jubilee Gastronomy & Mixology, Expo 2020 Dubai
‘Tis the most wonderful season of the year! Head to Expo 2020 Dubai and discover a world of festive wonder, all wrapped up at Jubilee Gastronomy & Mixology. An experience not to be missed, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Al Wasl Plaza as you indulge in a sublime five-course set menu on Christmas Eve or a glorious sharing-style feast with your favourite main course. Toast to the holidays with premium beverage packages that are available upon upgrade requests.
December 24 at AED550 onwards per person and December 25 at AED400 onwards. Premium beverage packages are available upon upgrade requests. 9th floor & rooftop, Expo Media Centre, Al Wasl Plaza, Expo 2020 Dubai. Call +9714 350 9223 or email book.jubilee@gatesdxb.com. Visit Instagram.
The Hide and Arboretum, Jumeirah Al Qasr
Amongst the many festive brunches being held across Jumeirah hotspots, diners are invited to slip on their finest fare and head to Jumeirah Al Qasr for an exceptional vintage festive pop-up brunch. Taking place across The Hide and Arboretum, diners can expect a festive feast packed full with seasonal cheer and unlimited sumptuous food and beverages. Setting the mood for the afternoon amidst exciting Christmas décor, is a live vintage jazz band belting out timeless festive classics.
December 1 to 31 on Fridays from 1-4:30pm. AED420 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED550 per person (inclusive of creative concoctions and sparkling grape), AED720 per person (inclusive of bubbly) and AED250 per kid aged 8-14. Call +9714 432 3232 or book online. Visit the website for more information.
Pranzo di Natale / Christmas Brunch at Roberto’s Dubai
Roberto’s Dubai has curated a spectacular Christmas Brunch ( Pranzo di Natale) for those wishing to gather at the chic restaurant on the Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Pranzo di Natale offers a multi-course menu featuring seasonal favourites including Black cod croquettes, Spinach, pumpkin and pomegranate salad, Sharing platters of delectable grilled meats or seafood and classic Italian desserts including Panettone Trani, Torrone and Struffoli.
December 24 and 25 from 12-4pm. AED345 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED545 per person (inclusive of house beverages) and AED795 per person (inclusive of bubbly).
The Winter Garden, Al Habtoor City
Welcome to your own winter wonderland at this urban oasis, where festive surprises whisper from all around. Sited in front of Habtoor Palace Dubai, the Winter Garden is open every day and features an array of food stalls to take visitors on a culinary journey around the world; while street performances and live music will ensure a jolly time. During the festive season from December 15 to 31, the Winter Garden also offers carol singing, a stunning festive illumination and surprise visits from Santa.
The Winter Garden from December 15, 2021 to April 30, 2022. 5pm-12am. Call +9714 275 1805. While visiting Winter Garden, you can participate in regular raffle draws and win one of the iPhones 13 up for grabs, along with a plethora of luxury prizes. Follow The Winter Garden on Instagram for more chances to win.
Naughty Noodles Brunch at Maiden Shanghai, FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Just like it should be, the Christmas celebrations at Maiden Shanghai are naughty but nice. And because one is just not enough, the award-winning Naughty Noodles brunch will take place on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Look forward to a selection of scrumptious Chinese cuisine and specially crafted creative concoctions, as you enjoy the best of live entertainment and the breathtaking views of the Marina skyline from the rooftop terrace.
December 24 from 1-4pm at AED450 per person (inclusive of house beverages) and AED550 per person (inclusive of sparkling beverages. December 25 from 1-4pm at AED549 per person (inclusive of house beverages) and AED649 per person (inclusive of sparkling beverages. Visit the website or Instagram.
Festive Set Menu at Torno Subito, W Dubai – The Palm
Sit down with your loved ones to a delectable set menu boasting homemade Ravioli, Organic roast meats, the freshest Seafood and traditional Pampepato. Buon Appetito!
December 24 to 26 from 7pm-12am. AED499 per person (inclusive of a welcome creative concoction). Call +9714 245 5800 or email to wpalmdining@whotelsworldwide.com. Please note: all festive promotions require advance payment. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Trattoria By Cinque, FIVE Jumeirah Village
Get the whole family together the night before Christmas, for an Italian Christmas Eve dinner served family-style by award-winning chef Giuseppe Pezzella. Loved ones mean the most at Christmas time and this venue ensures that there is plenty of festive fun for the whole family. Enjoy Italian festive classics from a bespoke Christmas set menu; and delectable Panettone for the grand finale. Celebrate the good life and keep the beverages flowing with live entertainment, al fresco dining and your favourite people around you.
December 24 from 7pm onwards or Christmas Eve sharing style menu at AED399 for adults (inclusive of house beverages). Visit Instagram.
Big Christmas Day Brunch at Farriers Restaurant, The Meydan Hotel
Make it a December to remember as The Meydan Hotel invites you to their Big Christmas Day Brunch. Let yourself be enchanted by gorgeous surrounds of Farriers, whilst you and your family tuck into festive-themed appetizers, mouthwatering mains and decadent desserts. Adding to the ambience is the cheerful live performances from a saxophonist and a children’s entertainment area to keep the little ones occupied.
December 25 from 1-4pm. AED399 per person (inclusive of dinner buffet and soft beverages), AED599 per person (inclusive of dinner buffet and house beverages), AED625 per person (inclusive of dinner buffet, house beverages and sparkling). Call +9714 381 3111 or email restaurant.reservationstmh@meydanhotels.com. Visit the website.
Christmas cheer at Myrra, Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah
‘Tis the season to get together with loved ones and celebrate with abundant fun and flavours. In true Myrra style, the talented culinary team has carefully curated a Christmas menu that you can enjoy at the chic and charming restaurant throughout December. Whether you choose to dine indoors surrounded by the gorgeous vibrant foliage, outdoors on the charming terrace or al fresco with your toes in the sand looking out to the sea, you can be assured a very merry Christmas with Myrra this season.
December 1 to 31 from 12pm-2am. Call +9714 770 1433 or email reservation@myrrarestaurant.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
ANNEX Eve Night Brunch, The Abu Dhabi EDITION
The fabulous Abu Dhabi EDITION is inviting you to a whole month of dazzling festivities. Make your way to ANNEX Rooftop for a spectacular Christmas Eve brunch. Expect stunning views, a vibrant live DJ set, light bites, bubbly and house beverages to revel the night away.
December 24 from 2-5pm and 6–9pm (three-hour experience). AED248 per person (inclusive of soft beverages) and AED368 per person (inclusive of house beverages and bubbly). Call +9712 208 0000 or email restaurantreservations.auh@editionhotels.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Social Saturday – Festive Edition at Akira Back, W Dubai – The Palm
Level up your Saturday and tuck into a sharing-style lunch with bottomless beverages, stunning views and live entertainment by Jul & Co. The stage is set for the perfect festive lunch experience.
December 25 from 1-4pm. AED395 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED495 per person (inclusive of house beverages), AED695 per person (inclusive of bubbly) and kids under 12 dine for free from the kid’s menu. Call +9714 245 5800 or email to wpalmdining@whotelsworldwide.com. Please note: all festive promotions require advance payment. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Day Brunch at Beau Rivage Bistro, Grand Millennium Business Bay
Celebrate Christmas with friends and family at this vibrant dining destination. Feast on an array of signature and festive delicacies from an expansive buffet, including specialties from live cooking stations. Kids will have the time of their lives with a visit from the jolly man in red himself; while the adults can expect upbeat tunes from live entertainment.
December 25 from 1-4pm. AED335 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED435 per person (inclusive of house beverages), AED535 per person (inclusive of bubbly), complimentary for kids below 6 and 50 per cent off for kids above 6. Book before December 20 and get 20 per cent off. Call +9714 873 3333, WhatsApp +97156 682 9268 or email festive.gmbb@millenniumhotels.com. Visit Instagram.
Christmas Eve Brunch at Graze Gastro Grill & Bar, La Ville Hotel & Suites
Dine indoors or al fresco at Graze Gastro Grill & Bar terrace and toast to the festive season with an array of sizzling mains and sides so luscious, that even four hours of jolly brunching won’t be enough. Tuck into a selection of Poached chilled seafood, Salmon roulade and beef carpaccio; before moving on to the second course brimming with aromatic delicacies. Mains call for your choice from a glorious spread including Sanchoku wagyu ribeye and Black angus fillet. Save room for the abundant sides and the tempting desserts.
December 24 from 1-5pm at AED299 per person (inclusive of soft package) and AED399 per person (inclusive of premium package). Visit the website and Instagram.
Christmas Brunch with Live Entertainment at Great British Restaurant, Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
Gather the family and visit the luxurious Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel for a whole month of festive fun. Step into your own winter wonderland at Great British Restaurant and expect a fabulous Christmas Brunch brimming with holiday dishes. Create memories over winning beverages, as you sway the afternoon away with upbeat tunes from live entertainment.
December 25 from 1-4pm. AED350 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED395 per person (inclusive of house hops and grape), AED495 per person (inclusive of house hops, grape and bubbly) and AED179 per child aged 6 to 12. Call +9714 455 1101, WhatsApp +97158 889 9419 or email dukesthepalm.dining@royalhideaway.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinner at Splendido, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR
Gather your loved ones and make your way to Splendido Social Bar and Kitchen, an Italian restaurant of impeccable flair. Dine under the stars on the Tuscan-style Piazza or indoors, as chef Francesco and his team serve seasonal specials including Venison carpaccio, Ricotta tortellini, Braised Dover sole and Roasted capon. End your experience with a traditional panettone, accompanied by a jazz pianist and a visit from the jolly old man in red.
December 24 and 25 from 7-11pm. AED475 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED675 per person (inclusive of soft beverages and a sommelier selection), AED240 per child aged 6 to 11 and complimentary for children under 5. Call +9714 318 6150 or email festive.dubai@ritzcarlton.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Day Brunch at The City Grill, The Atrium, Al Habtoor City
Embrace the joy of Christmas Day with a magical South African style brunch featuring free-flowing adult beverages, alongside traditional dishes with a modern twist. That’s not all! Live cooking stations are sure to make your afternoon fun and festive; and kids can expect a surprise visit from Santa himself, who will come bearing gifts for little ones.
December 25 from 12:30-4pm at AED300 per person (inclusive of soft package), AED435 per person (inclusive of house package), AED500 per person (inclusive of bubbly package) and AED110 for kids aged 6 to 12 years. Call +9714 437 0088 or visit Instagram.
Christmas Brunch at Timo Restaurant, Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel
Add an Italian touch to your Christmas celebrations with a delightful Christmas Brunch at Timo restaurant. Satisfy your tastebuds with an array of seasonal delights and Italian specialties from live cooking stations. Endless kids’ activities and festive goodies promise to keep the little ones occupied, while the adults catch up.
December 25 from 1-4pm. AED225 per person (inclusive of soft beverages) and AED350 per person (inclusive of house beverages). Call +9714 596 2222 or email marketing.aljaddaf@rotana.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Dinner at Asil Dubai, Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR
This December, diners are invited to indulge in an authentic fusion of Arabesque cuisine, featuring a beautiful balance of Turkish, Lebanese and Moroccan flavours. Prepare to be dazzled from the moment you step into the setting and whisked away to a bygone time and place of Oriental luxury; and discover a feast of delectable dishes, including luscious new ones revealed just in time for the holidays.
À la carte Christmas Dinner on December 24 (inclusive of Christmas specialty dishes). Call +9714 520 0055 or email dine@asilrestaurant.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
Immerse in the unparalleled luxury at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort during the festive period and ring in the most joyful season of the year. Come together with your loved ones at an impeccable Christmas Day celebration at Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi with unique Pacific Rim cuisine and a beautiful setting overlooking the beach.
Call +9712 498 8888. Visit the website and Instagram.
Christmas Eve Dinner at World Cut Steakhouse, Habtoor Palace Dubai
With its sophisticated dark interiors, warm and inviting vibe and tables grand enough to place all your presents, World Cut Steakhouse is the perfect setting for a decadent evening centred around the finest cuts. Enjoy a luscious Christmas Eve dinner with a special twist, as you sway to tunes from live entertainment.
December 24 from 7:30-11pm at AED395 per person (inclusive of four-course menu of food only. Kids under 12 years old are not permitted. Call +9714 275 1805. Visit Instagram.
Bolla’s Christmas Brunch
Slip into your finest attire and head to Bolla for a Christmas brunch which will take place on both, December 24 and 25. Look forward to a festive multi-course menu with signatures including a selection of oysters, salmon tartare and seared foie gras to start, before moving on to a choice of traditional stuffed turkey, pan seared sea bass or seafood spaghetti. For dessert, those in the mood for something other than the iconic panettone can opt for an indulgent crème brûlée or an abundant platter of mixed fruits. Guests joining for dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day can dine à la carte, with the option to order Christmas Specials
December 24 and 25 from 1-4pm at AED365 per person (inclusive soft beverage package) and AED495 per person (inclusive of Italian and French bubbly package). DJ Set from 2pm onwards and Happy Hour from 4:30pm onwards.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Moana Seafood Restaurant, Sofitel Dubai The Palm
Moana Seafood Restaurant channels all the romance of the South Seas with a gleaming dark wood veranda, backed by dreamy pool and palm and ocean vistas. Inspired by the venue’s ocean setting and the salt-laden breeze that caresses its al fresco diners, the menu at Moana is brimming with treasures from the sea and sublime specials.
Courses feature Salmon nigiri criollo or Mushroom nigiri; followed by Octopus and olives or Melon tiradito. For the main event, diners can choose between Roasted salmon in a lemon sauce, Turkey breast stuffed with green apple and blue cheese, or Vegan scallops served alongside celeriac purée, sweet peas and miso. Dessert in the form of Santa’s Belt, a masterpiece of White chocolate mousse, raspberry crémeux and almond cake rounds off your meal.
December 24 from 6:30-11pm at AED350 for adults and AED175 for children aged 6–11 years. Younger children are welcome free of charge. For an early-bird discount of 20 per cent, purchase a prepaid voucher online before December 20, 2021. See the menu or visit the website.
A Festive Family Reunion at The Market, Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City
The holiday season truly comes alive at The Market, with traditional Christmas favourites prepared with the whole family in mind. Bring the kids too, as there’s a dedicated play area to keep them entertained, together with a special surprise appearance from the man in red himself and a live band belting out upbeat tunes.
December 25 from 1-4:30pm at AED400 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED525 per person (inclusive of house beverages) and AED750 per person (inclusive of bubbly). Kids up to 5 eat for free and AED150 for kids aged 5 to 12 years. Call +9714 275 1805. Visit Instagram.
Christmas Eve Premium Five-course Dinner at Mermaid Restaurant, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Have yourself a sparkling ocean-blue Christmas as you soak up the Christmas cheer and enjoy a premium, five-course meal inclusive of refreshing beverages, while overlooking the mesmerizing shores of Saadiyat beach at Mermaid Restaurant.
December 24 from 7-10:30pm. AED150 per person (for in-house guests) and AED599 per person (for visitors).
Festive Brunch at Prime68, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
Celebrate in style at the top of the world’s tallest 5-star hotel with a festive brunch at Prime68. Take in the panoramic views of Dubai’s striking skyline as you indulge in a luscious feast.
December 24 and 25 from 1-4pm at AED650 per person (inclusive of bubbly). Call +9714 414 3000 or email jwmmrr@marriott.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Porterhouse Steaks & Grills, Sofitel Dubai The Palm
Christmas Eve calls for an exquisite epicurean experience and this twice recognised Dubai steakhouse invites you to indulge in special culinary creations from the property’s acclaimed chefs. Sit down to a dinner boasting four courses of delectable dishes across distinct vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus, amidst an ambience of intimate sophistication.
Festivities begin with a Wood-smoked salmon and royal caviar on buckwheat blinis, or Salt-baked beetroot with hazelnut crumbs. Thereafter, a Butternut squash cappuccino soup makes its way to the table; followed by a choice of Tournedos Rossini, Chicken galantine or Pumpkin Wellington for mains. The grand finale is a confection of White chocolate mousse, raspberry crémeux and almond cake playfully known as Santa’s Belt.
December 24 from 6:30-11pm at AED350 for adults and AED175 for children aged 6–11 years. Younger children are welcome free of charge. For an early-bird discount of 20 per cent, purchase a prepaid voucher online before December 20, 2021. Visit the website.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Turquoise Restaurant, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island will provide a taste of opulence this festive season courtesy of an exclusive Christmas-themed dinner at the property’s popular Turquoise Restaurant. Enjoy dishes from live cooking stations and diverse cuisines, including roast turkey and trimmings, special beef wellington, traditional Christmas treats and gingerbread cookies; rounded off by punchy beverages and a night of magical entertainment and classical music.
December 24 from 7-10:30pm. AED499 per person and complimentary for in-house guests.
Festive Lunch and Dinner at Kitchen6, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
Together with family and friends, tuck into an extravagant festive spread featuring International dishes and delicacies from six live cooking stations.
Christmas Lunch Buffet on December 25 from 12:30-3:30pm at AED275 per person (inclusive of soft beverages). Christmas Dinner Buffet on December 24 and 25 from 7-11pm at AED225 per person (inclusive of soft beverages). Call +9714 414 3000 or email jwmmrr@marriott.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Matagi, Raffles The Palm Dubai
Matagi, the prime destination in Dubai for lovers of fusion cuisine the Itamashi concept, will be hosting a Christmas Eve Dinner where the team of expertly trained chefs will prepare an exquisite Italian – Japanese fusion menu for the festive occasion. Guests can choose from a delectable a la carte selection of Japanese flavours, aromas, and textures and be entertained by tunes from DJ Hilde.
December 24 from 6pm–1am. Call +9714 288 888 or email Dining.thepalm@raffles.com. Visit the website.