As the cooler months sweep across the UAE, the country presents a plethora of thrilling outdoor adventures for those who love to explore. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping zipline experience or a serene glamping retreat, the current weather conditions make it an ideal time to venture out. Let's delve into some of the top winter activities that will ensure you make the most of this delightful season!
Expo City Dubai is set to transform into a magical winter wonderland with Winter City, a family-oriented festival running from December 6-31. Tickets are now available for this enchanting experience, featuring a range of activities, including the Carols by Candlelight musical performances from December 20-24. A standout attraction is the collaboration with Toys “R” Us, which will turn Al Wasl Plaza into a colossal Santa’s toy factory. The festival promises festive joy for all ages, with tickets starting at Dh40 and family packages available at Dh240, offering additional benefits.
Celebrate the holiday season at The Bay by Social in Dubai Festival City Mall with the enchanting Ice & Lights Festival, running from November 28 to December 28. This month-long event transforms the venue into a festive wonderland, featuring dazzling light shows, family-friendly activities, local shopping opportunities, and thrilling rides. The festival operates daily from 4pm to midnight, with free entry, making it a perfect holiday destination for families.
For a magical White Christmas, Ski Dubai and Snow Abu Dhabi are the go-to destinations in the Emirates, offering real snow this festive season. From December 1-25, families can enjoy winter activities in temperatures as low as -2°C. Both locations feature Santa Claus and his elves, with various packages catering to all ages. Ski Dubai’s Winter Wonderland offers options like Meet Santa (Dh160), Snow Fun & Meet Santa (Dh325), and Family Meets Santa (Dh600). Additionally, Breakfast with Santa includes festive treats starting at Dh160 for adults and Dh80 for kids under 2 years old.
Winter District returns, bringing festive magic to a new location in Dubai. From December 14-22, the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre will transform into a winter wonderland, perfect for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts. After a successful inaugural season, Winter District offers more excitement with twinkling lights, a festive marketplace featuring locally crafted gifts, and delicious food from Joe & The Juice, Freedom Pizza, and more. Families can enjoy Santa’s Grotto, carolers, arts and crafts, mega inflatables, snow play, and carnival games.
The Green Planet Dubai’s ‘Camping in the Rainforest’ experience returns with themed weekends from October to December. Enjoy storytelling under the Kapok tree, face painting, arts and crafts, and a rainforest scavenger hunt throughout November. In December, the festive camping experience will transform the rainforest into a winter wonderland with Santa, gingerbread decorating, and holiday fun, with overnight stays running from 7pm to 8am. Prices start at Dh850 for a regular tent for two and Dh1,650 for a large tent for four.
The highly anticipated Dubai Run returns on November 24, offering participants of all ages and fitness levels the chance to race along a specially cordoned-off stretch of Sheikh Zayed Road. Choose between a 5km or 10km route and enjoy stunning views of Dubai’s iconic skyline. This event is part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, celebrating the city’s vibrant energy.
Global Village, one of Dubai’s premier attractions, offers a perfect blend of entertainment, shopping, dining, and unique experiences, making it an ideal spot for an evening out during the cooler months. Open until May 11, 2025, the park operates Sunday to Wednesday from 4pm to 12am, and Thursday to Saturday from 4pm to 1am. Tickets start at Dh25, with free entry for children under 3, seniors over 65, and people of determination.
Experience the thrill of soaring over majestic mountain peaks and diving through deep ravines at speeds of up to 160 km/h on Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. Spanning 1,680 metres above the Arabian Gulf, this three-minute adventure delivers an adrenaline rush like no other. Enjoy breathtaking views as you glide through the air, creating an unforgettable experience.
Hatta Dome Park offers a luxurious glamping escape with stunning views of Hatta’s mountains. The park features 15 minimalist tents, each equipped with panoramic windows, a private terrace with a pool, stylish washrooms, TVs, and mini-fridges. Perfect for romantic getaways, group trips, or family vacations, the tents come with king beds, sofa beds, and baby cots upon request. Located near Hatta Wadi Hub, enjoy outdoor adventures like mountain karting, ziplining, and paragliding.
For the younger ones, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, offers a magical experience at Kids Palace, where kids can enjoy outdoor nature activities, crafts, and festive wonders on weekdays from 8am to 3:30pm. New this year is the Junior Chef Series, where kids aged 6-12 can participate in festive cooking workshops and explore holiday recipes from around the world. Sessions run on Saturday mornings from 9 to 11am, priced at Dh450 per child. Parents can join in the fun too with Chef Duo workshops on Sundays, priced at Dh650.
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