Celebrate Christmas in the Emirates? Of course. The UAE is very open to all religions. Not only are they respected, they are also celebrated. In the UAE, the holidays can be enjoyed in the sunshine and bathing weather. Sparkling lights, magnificent Christmas trees with Santa Claus and elves included.
Over the coming weeks, Abu Dhabi will be transformed into a veritable sea of lights: around Lulu Island, Corniche and the eastern mangroves, visitors can admire light installations by local artists and be inspired by the interplay of nature, water and light in a special way.
Beautiful Christmas tree at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Mother of the Nation Festival
A permanent fixture and one of the highlights of winter in Abu Dhabi is the Mother of the Nation Festival, which is taking place at three different locations this year: Al Ain, Al Dhafra and Abu Dhabi Corniche. This year’s edition of the festival is inspired by the swinging 1950s and 60s in America. From December 8-31, the Mother of the Nation Festival will transform the Abu Dhabi Corniche into a theme park of entertainment and thrills. From thrilling rides to ice skating rinks, film screenings, play parks and creative workshops, Mother of the Nation offers a varied entertainment program for young and old. The festival’s gastronomic offerings are also impressive: A wide range of national and international cuisine caters for guests during their visit. And the cozy markets invite you to browse and stroll around. On the evening of December 13, the Black Eyed Peas will transform the festival into a special kind of party.
St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Festive program at the St. Regis
From the mesmerizing Christmas tree lighting to an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party on the beach at the Nation Riviera Beach Club, the St. Regis Abu Dhabi has put together an extensive festive program that has something for everyone, with unique experiences that will create unforgettable memories for all holidaymakers and their loved ones. Younger guests can let off steam and let their creativity run wild by building their own gingerbread house. In addition to festive activities and delicious refreshments, travelers at the St. Regis also have the chance to meet Santa Claus in person and receive a gift or two. Those who prefer a quieter atmosphere can enjoy the festive ambience in the lobby, admire the majestic Christmas tree and listen to the enchanting sounds of the pianist.
Winter atmosphere
Despite tropical temperatures even in December, the winter atmosphere is not far away in Abu Dhabi. The Yas Winter Fest offers a variety of activities for those who don’t want to miss out on Western Christmas traditions, from Christmas tree lighting and culinary delights to roaming Santas and fairground rides. Things get really traditional in Santa Land, where there is a large Christmas craft station and gingerbread houses can be decorated. Christmas choirs, performances and the daily fireworks show at 9 pm round off the program. The Yas Winter Fest makes children’s eyes light up and big Christmas hearts beat faster!
In Snow Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, it gets really frosty: a true winter wonderland awaits guests there! Between Friday, December 1 and Monday, December 25, visitors can meet Santa Claus and his elves and even have breakfast with them.
Abu Dhabi will delight you with many more festive events.
You can find more information about celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi here: visitabudhabi.ae/en
Photos: © DCT Abu Dhabi