Dubai in December offers a delightful combination of sunny beaches and an enthusiastic Christmas atmosphere. Owing to the lovely climate conducive to outdoor activities, tourists can visit its famous sites, go on exciting desert excursions, and participate in the festivities that the city has to offer. Whether shopping in luxurious malls or lounging by the clear waters on the beach, as winter comes, Dubai makes for a great holiday destination in December.
Appeals of Dubai’s December
There are good reasons to suggest that December is the best time to visit Dubai because of:
- Enjoyable tropical weather
- Exquisitely illuminated holiday lights
- Exciting events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, UAE National Day, Christmas Brunches, and unmatched New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Seasonal thriving outdoor markets
- Cobalt skies
Fundamental Considerations
- Thanks to the beautiful weather, December is considered one of Dubai’s peak tourism periods and the most vibrant.
- There might be an increase in the cost of accommodation and air travel as it is a high season due to the influx of tourists and the vibrant holiday-ending celebrations.
- If you’re looking for the traditional winter holiday experience, Dubai may not be your destination, as the Dubai weather in December pleasantly warm than intensely cold.
Weather Insights
Dubai is located within the North Desert Belt, which gives it a desert tropical climate. December is favorable in terms of climate and therefore qualifies tourists as well as other physical activities. The temperatures in Dubai in December vary between 26C and 14C.
Dubai’s Indispensable Outdoor Experiences in December
Top things to do in December include,
- Desert Safari: A desert safari in Dubai is definitely a memorable experience due to thrilling activities like dune drives, sandboarding, and relaxed camel rides. Enrich the experience with an overnight stay in Bedouin tents, ethnic entertainment, and authentic local food.
- Skydiving: Skydiving is a must for adrenaline junkies, especially in Dubai. One gets the joy of free falling from a height of 14,000 feet and then smoothly landing on the ground with numerous offers.
- Dhow Cruise: Going on a Dhow Cruise lets you enjoy the panoramic views of the Dubai cityscape like never before. A two-hour scenic cruise along Dubai Creek in a wooden Arab Dhow is complemented with a lavish array of traditional food.
- Dubai Shopping Festival (6th December 2024 up to 12th January 2025): The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) will turn the entire city into a shoppers’ paradise. Experience amazing sales, engaging entertainment, and fantastic sparklers in huge malls and busy outdoor markets.
- Hiking & Golfing: Dubai’s December is the best for golf and trekking. The temperate climate and wonderful scenery make the activities more enjoyable. Emirates Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, and Hatta Mountain will cater to state-of-the-art golf courses and impeccable nature trails.
Dubai’s December Attractions
1. Burj Khalifa
Get a close view of the impressive 828-meter-high structure and step on its observation deck to catch a glimpse of Dubai in its full glory. While the tallest building in the world can be appreciated any time of the year, imagine starting your New Year with the most incredible sound and light show on a single building.
2. Dubai Beaches
It is winter, and Dubai is still at a blissful temperature of about twenty-seven degrees Celsius to twenty-eight degrees Celsius, making it the best time to enjoy its beautiful beaches. Sunset Beach provides exclusive bathing sections and engages in sports like swimming, kite surfing, and paddle surfing. Other unforgettable beach features include Kite Beach, La Mer Beach, and JBR Beach.
3. Dubai Garden Glow
It is an astounding park that is open from mid Dubai in October to mid-April. Dubai Garden Glow showcases amazing handcrafted art installations made of biodegradable materials. The annual exhibition unveils a different theme. The park also has an Art Park, an exquisite Magic Park, a beautiful Dinosaur Park, and a superb Ice Park.
4. Aquaventure Water Park
Being the biggest water park globally, it offers a first-of-its-kind twin racing tube and a healthy 50 water slides, including Vortex and Zoomerango. Also, enjoy the edge of activities such as shark snorkeling and feeding the rays, a well-organized kids’ section, and a private beach spanning 700 meters.
5. Global Village
Global Village in Dubai takes a different turn in December as it becomes a cultural center. Check out the various countries’ pavilions, taste different foods, and enjoy several shows. The Global Villages’ additional lighting and decorations create a wonderful setting that highlights the oneness and variety of people around the world.
6. Dubai Mall
Experience great offers and discounts, even more during this bustling month, at the world-famous Dubai Mall. Buy products from well-known brands effortlessly by using the Shop and Drop Service, which keeps your bags away while you do other things, thus allowing you to sit back and enjoy your shopping. Other shopping alternatives comprise the Mall of the Emirates, the much-loved Souks, Dubai Marina Mall, and City Walk.
7. Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a welcoming and entertaining place, even in cooler December weather. As it gets a little sunny, people will only want to engage in activities like sightseeing the Dubai skyscrapers, their beautiful customized designs, and Christmas lights, making it fitting to visit such a landmark during this season.
Pre-Visit Crucial Information
- Crowds: Due to the peak season for tourists during the month of December, expect most attractions in
- Dubai to be overcrowded.
- Safety: Safe and secure remains Dubai, but exercise normal safety measures.
- Currency: The currency used or accepted in the United Arab Emirates is the Emirati Dirham (AED) and
- credit cards are used nearly everywhere.
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but courtesy is most likely welcomed.
- Language: Arabic is the national language, while English is more prevalent.
- Emergency Numbers: Call the operator on 999 in case of a police emergency. Call 998 for ambulance services.
- Timings: In referring to Dubai time, the GMT +4 time zones apply, and the country code for this part of the Middle East is +971.
Dubai’s December Packing Fundamentals
It is necessary to pack proper items for a trip to Dubai in December for it to go smoothly. The days are warm, with temperatures between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit to 84 degrees Fahrenheit) and cooler at night; therefore, wearing layers is advisable. Pack some breathable garments, light outerwear, swimwear and decent dressing for religious place visits. Do not forget the sun block, the right plug, some medication, a travel cover, important papers, a large bag, and also a travel-friendly water container. Proper packing enhances your travel experience, ensuring you are set for all activities, be it shopping in the souks or spending a lavish day at the beach.
Accommodation
This Christmas season, treat yourself to a vacation in Atlantis The Palm, which offers its guests an attractive underwater aquarium and a private beach. Incorporate the culture of Dubai by opting for small, attractive boutique hotels located within the Al Fahidi Historic District. The luxuriously appointed JW Marriott Marquis has an imposing view of the skyline and a relaxing spa. Rove Downtown is aimed at the mid-scale sector designed for comfort and convenience, whereas Dubai Marina Hostel is perfect for those with a budget who prefer a more vibrant crowd. Being a peak season for most tourists, make sure you book early to get the best rates and great offers.
Dubai’s December- Getting around in Breeze
- Metro: This is relatively economical and also provides picturesque city scenery.
- Taxi: Taxi service is affordable and can be hailed or booked through the RTA Smart Taxi app.
- Bus: Economic buses connect the city to the other Emirates, and most have free Wi-Fi.
- Boat: The inimitable Dubai Water Taxi presents a charismatic and competent way to explore the city’s dazzling waterfront, connecting premier attractions along its quaint coastline.
Dubai’s December Accommodation Alternatives
- Luxury: Sofitel The Palm, Atlantis The Palm
- Mid-Budget:Dallas Hotel, Marina Crown Tower
- Budget-Friendly: AI Safa Hotel, Ibis Styles
Dubai’s December Essential Dining Delights
Come December, Dubai has so much in store for food lovers. Savor Al Machboos, a spiced rice dish with mutton or chicken and vegetables boiled and spiced rice, and Chelo Kebab, with its elaborate beautiful saffron rice. Also, try Manousheh, an authentic flatbread served with assorted spreads. Baklava and global cuisines at hypnotizing restaurants should also find their way to your mouth to make the festive period more complete and enjoyable. Relish in the mouth-watering Christmas delights such as gingerbread cookies, succulent turkey, and hot spiced mulled wine, which reflect the flavors and warmth of the festive season in the diverse food culture of Dubai.
Dubai’s December Standouts
Christmas plus New Year
The holiday season of Christmas in Dubai is colorful and filled with plenty of outdoor activities, decorated markets, and tree lighting. Kids can also meet Santa Claus and enjoy lovely seasonal snacks. For the New Year’s eve celebrations 2025, an incredible eye show of fireworks will take place at Burj Khalifa; famous stars will perform; yacht parties will be held; and Madinat Jumeirah and Global Village will be filled with more cultural activities.
- UAE National Day
Every year, on December 2, the United Arab Emirates commemorates its National Day decorated in red, green, white, and black. A wave of parades, cultural activities, fireworks, and ethnic music brings residents and guests of these countries together in a sense of nationalistic fervor.
- Winter City
Expo City goes the other way and becomes a winter spirit zone of entertaining and educational activities for children. The pavilions are well-lit at night, and the seasonal decoration makes family outings experience intense fun and frolic.
Dubai’s December 2024 Much-Awaited Events
The top events in December 2024 include:
- Kirtan Rasa 2024
Venue- Regent International School
Date- 30th November up to 2ndDecember, 2024
Time- 9 am up to 10 pm
Tickets- Free with registration
- Global AI Show Dubai
Venue- Grand Hyatt Dubai Conference & Exhibition Centre
Date- 12th December, 2024
Time- 9 am
Tickets- AED 730 starting
- Thirty Seconds to Mars
Venue- Coca-Cola Arena
Date- 12th December, 2024
Time- 8 pm
Ticket- AED 295 starting
- Japan Festival 2024
Venue- Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort
Date- 8th December, 2024
Time- 2 pm
Tickets- Entry fee, charges applicable on food, games
- Christmas Day Brunch
Venue- Souk Madinat
Date- 25th December, 2024
Time- 12:30 up to 4:30 pm
Tickets- AED 95 starting
Practical Dubai’s December Surveying Guidelines
- December is the busiest month in Dubai, so make reservations and schedule itineraries ahead of time.
- Dress comfortably in religious and formal establishments; covering the shoulders and knees is advisable.
- Visit the local souks for a more interesting and economical experience.
- Drink alcohol where appropriate; it is only provided in certain facilities.
- Follow the traditions of the people; do not engage in any public affection.
Conclusion
Much like November in Dubai, December also has its beauty and attractions. Dubai in December is everything you covet in a holiday spot in the winter—sand, sun, sea, and snow if you wish. The weather conditions are excellent for outdoor activities such as going to the desert and the beach, making the holiday celebrations just one of the countless reasons for coming over.
FAQs
Q1. What will be an approximate Dubai December trip expenditure?
This depends on the traveler’s interests, activity preferences, and length of stay.
Q2. What are Dubai December’s packing requisites?
- Power Adapter: C, D, and G types
- Sunscreen with a high SPF factor
- Daily medicines, medical, and travel insurance
- A refillable flask
Q3. Are attractions accessible in December?
Yes, most attractions are accessible, with December being the peak month. For best results, confirm lunch hours before exploring.
Q4. Name Dubai’s December special events.
- Dubai Shopping Festival
- UAE National Day
- Christmas and New Year’s Eve festivities