Dubai is one of the most famous travel destinations! After living in Dubai for 5 years I can definitely say that December is probably my favorite month therefore I am encouraging visitors to come to Dubai and the UAE this time of the year. There are many things to experience, from the best weather, culture, and history on UAE’s National Day, to Christmas festivities and spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. Although it can be one of the most expensive months to travel, is definitely worth visiting Dubai in December!
Wondering what are the best things to do in Dubai in December? Here I mention the amazing Things to Know Before You Go to Dubai in December 2023 to make your holiday memorable!
Nowadays Dubai is one of the most iconic and desired vacation destinations for a huge number of people across the globe. From captivating views to opulent stays, indoor-outdoor adventures to spectacular shopping malls, desert safaris to beaches, Dubai provides tons of things to make your holiday the perfect one.
If you are going to Dubai for the first time, or the third time, you’ll be sure to find something unmissable to do in this list!
The country’s location offers hot and sunny weather year-round, but December is a perfect time to visit Dubai and experience some of the amazing activities and man-made wonders.
While you are crossing things off this list when planning out your next holiday, use Expedia’s Price Tracking tool to check the best flight prices for your 2023 trips!
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Iconic Things to Do in Dubai in December
Dubai is an extremely popular destination with a very long list of sites to visit any time of the year. However Dubai in December is definitely a holiday to remember!
Enjoy the Christmas vibe in Madinat Jumeirah Market
If you’re looking for the best activity in Dubai in December, which brings in the Christmas spirit, you should definitely check out Madinat Jumeirah’s Festive Market. The German-style Christmas market and the spectacular winter wonderland held by Madinat Jumeirah along with a Christmas tree and stunning winter decorations will definitely make a Christmas to remember!
Don't miss Atlantis Market in December in Dubai
If Madinat Jumeirah is not enough, Atlantis Market should be your next stop! Christmas festivities at Atlantis the Palm is a particularly beautiful celebration. The Atlantis changes into a stunning winter wonderland with memorable activities, and a magical festive vibe, perfect for you, your family, and friends.
Experience 2 December, the UAE National Day
On 2nd December, the UAE National Day, the locals celebrate the day when all 7 Emirates were unified into one nation. In Dubai, you can expect to see the colors of the UAE flag being decorated across the city including the beaches, parks, and skyscrapers. Different types of events across the city including concerts, tourist and shopping deals, and raffles, are part of the many things you can explore on the 2nd of December. Definitely, this is a great time to visit Dubai, if you want to experience the country’s cultural and historical side.
Have a memorable New Year's Eve
In Dubai, New Year’s Eve sees fireworks displays by the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, The Palm, and Burj Al Arab. Many spectacular places to choose from! Moreover, you can also enjoy live performances by stars from around the globe and luxurious parties on the beach. Dubai has it all, from family-friendly gatherings and romantic rooftop dinner dates to beach and yacht parties to make your holiday one to remember!
The weather in Dubai in December is great for Yacht Parties
As I’ve said, yacht parties are pretty much popular at this time of the year so you definitely don’t want to miss it. There are great day options that involve swimming as well and also night parties where you can dance the night away until late.
Dubai in December is amazing for Outdoor walking
If you are looking for a more chill-out kind of holiday, December in Dubai is definitely perfect to explore the outdoors. The weather is amazing so you will certainly feel comfortable walking in Downtown, Souq Al Bahar, Dubai Marina, or JBR.
The Dubai Shopping Festival in December
Christmas and New Year’s Eve are synonyms with shopping! Dubai in December is the perfect time to enjoy a long session of shopping at The Dubai Shopping Festival! The festival is one of the largest shopping events in the Middle East, so you will find everywhere all sorts of deals.
Cost for Your Trip to Dubai in December
It’s easy to get carried away in Dubai and splurge without realizing it!
First & Second weeks in Dubai in December
Dubai is not a cheap travel destination pretty much any time of the year. With more reason, Dubai in December can be a bit costly due to Christmas and New Year’s Eve, two of the most famous celebrations around the world. So if you are looking for a budget-friendly time to travel to Dubai in December I definitely suggest booking your trip at the beginning of this month.
Christmas week
Planning your vacation on Christmas week may be an amazing decision. On average, the price of an overnight stay in a standard double room in Dubai in December may be a bit higher. In terms of flights in December, the closer you get to the end of the month, the more expensive they get.
New Year's Eve week
No doubt that New Year’s Eve is that time of the year that we all celebrate so prices can go up really quickly. Definitely booking your trip in advance is a great way to keep your travel on a normal level of expenses.
Where to Stay in Dubai in December
Whether you a looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly accommodations, to be near the sea, or Downtown and Burj Khalifa, the are endless places to choose from!
Jumeirah Al Qasr for a luxury stay in Dubai in December
Looking to experience a whole new universe and an Arabian royalty service? You certainly want to book your trip to Jumeirah Al Qasr! Located on 2 km of private beach, the resort offers extensive landscaped grounds with canal-style waterways, rooms with furnished private balconies, and a seafood restaurant suspended over the Arabian Gulf among many other 5-stars facilities.
Location
Madinat Jumeirah
Price
$$$
Great For
Grandeur
Radisson Beach Resort Palm Jumeirah for Mid-range hotels to stay in Dubai in December
Radisson Beach Resort is located just a few steps from Palm West Beach. The spectacular outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurants, and terrace are just a few of the facilities you can enjoy here. Certain units at the property include a balcony with a sea view. You can enjoy daily a delicious breakfast which includes continental, American, and vegetarian dishes.
Location
The Palm West Beach
Price
$$
Great For
Mid-range seekers
Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf for budget-friendly accommodations to stay in Dubai in December
Set in Dubai, 6.4 km from Dubai World Trade Centre, Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a terrace. You also can enjoy dinner at the property’s restaurant or a cocktail at the bar.
Location
Bur Dubai
Price
$
Great For
Budget-friendly
What is Weather Like in Dubai in December
If the blistering summer heat has ever put you off visiting Dubai, prepare for the delightfully pleasant days of December.
Day weather in Dubai in December
The average daytime temperature of around 26°C/78.8°F in Dubai in December makes it the best month to explore this city.
Night weather in Dubai in December
Believe it or not, the nighttime weather in Dubai in December can be cold so I highly suggest a blazer when going out. And with more reason, if you are going to any terrace near the water, you need something to cover you up!
Water temperature in Dubai in December
The seawater temperatures of 28.8°C/84°F are experienced in Dubai in December and for most of us can be considered great for ocean swimming. Also, you must know that your resort or hotel has usually a temperature-controlled pool!
Activities Outside Dubai in December
The charms of Dubai are legendary, and no matter how much time you allocate to the city, it’s never going to be enough. But if you can tear yourself away, there are some wonderful day trips from Dubai you can do, whether you choose Abu Dhabi or some adventure in Hatta!
Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi
Although not as famous as Dubai, the country’s capital Abu Dhabi is worth a visit! You must see the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques. And will here, if you want to make your day, visit Ferrari World, a spectacular amusement park with rollercoasters that any car lover would enjoy.
Discover a different side of UAE in Fujairah
For a more Arabic traditional atmosphere, I suggest you visit Fujairah. Is an amazing location to explore the local life and learn more about the culture and traditions.
Escape the city and visit Hatta
Feel like skipping the city vibe and crowds for a day? Then take a day trip to Hatta. With a much calmer, laid-back, and relaxed vibe, Hatta is a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities and leave behind Dubai for a day.
What are Some Things to Consider Before Visiting Dubai in December
As the night falls in Dubai the parties begin. If you want to make the most out of your holiday, be sure to include the following night experiences on your itinerary.
Christmas atmosphere in Dubai in December
You’ll find bif different vibes on Christmas in Dubai in December due to the many nationalities, cultures, and religions, predominately Islamic however a great lineup of events is still expected across the city. From markets to opera shoes, kids singalong events, and, of course, Christmas Day brunches and takeaway meals. Many fun things to do although Christmas Day is an official celebration day and also not a public holiday in the UAE.
Do not miss the brunch experience in Dubai in December
Looking to explore the greatest weather, beach, or swimming pool while tasting delicious specialties and having a lot of fun? Brunch in Dubai in December is probably what you are searching for! This is one of the most popular things to do in Dubai, so definitely don’t miss it!
Be prepared for a busy Dubai in December
No doubt that you must start booking your trip a couple of months ahead. Starting with your flight and hotel to even day trips and activities is highly recommended to have them reserved before traveling. With some research and planning, you can ensure that you and your family have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Dubai in December.
Do not purchase the cheapest desert safari package
There are many activities where you can try to save money however desert safari is definitely not one of them! You definitely need to make your own research and check out the activities offered on the trip. From atv and buggies to Jeep and camel riding, lunch or dinner with a night traditional spectacle, you certainly want to know what you will get.
Do not drink in public
There are many places where you can enjoy a glass of wine or any other preferred alcoholic beverage during your trip to Dubai. However, you must keep in mind that drinking on the streets is not allowed. Definitely be aware of the local rules, not only related to the alcohol but also to the way you dress.
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Overall
So. welcome to Dubai in December, an extremely popular time to visit this destination! This month is jam-packed with events and things to do, so you’ll never be stuck bored. The city’s much cooler temperatures make it the best time to travel to Dubai!
