As the winter season approaches, Dubai transforms into a wonderland of fun and excitement for kids and adults alike. With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your winter activities in Dubai. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best things to do with kids in Dubai during winter and the top Christmas markets in the city. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, there’s something for everyone in Dubai during the winter season.
Dubai is known for its hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, especially during the holiday season. With so many activities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From ice skating to visiting Santa Claus, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Dubai during winter.
Activities
1. Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai, a winter wonderland catering to both kids and adults, features a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Alongside traditional winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing, the outdoor offerings include the popular Snow Park, where families can engage in activities such as snowman-building and tubing.
The Ski Slope provides a beginner-friendly environment with lessons, a chairlift, and a magic carpet for easy access. For those seeking thrills, the Snow Bullet offers a zip line experience across the entire slope, providing a unique perspective of the park. To unwind, visitors can enjoy the scenic views from the St. Moritz Cafe, situated at the slope’s peak, while sipping on hot cocoa or coffee.
2. Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden, spanning 72,000 square meters and adorned with over 150 million flowers in full bloom, offers a picturesque paradise with family-friendly outdoor activities. The enchanting Flower Hill provides a scenic stroll, complemented by the popular Flower Trains offering a guided tour of the garden’s attractions. For an immersive experience, the Butterfly Garden showcases over 15,000 butterflies and features a butterfly museum and flower park.
Adventure seekers can explore the Aromatic Garden, housing various aromatic plants like lavender and mint, with guided tours highlighting their uses. For a more tranquil experience, the centrally located Lake Park boasts a serene lake surrounded by vibrant flowers, inviting visitors to leisurely stroll or relax on benches amidst the breathtaking scenery.
Indoor Activities: Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is a shopper’s paradise, but it also offers a wide range of indoor activities for kids and adults alike. Here are some of the best indoor activities that you can enjoy with your kids:
- Dubai Ice Rink: This Olympic-sized ice rink is perfect for kids who love to skate. The rink offers skating lessons for beginners and has a range of activities for kids, including disco sessions and snowfall sessions.
- VR Park Dubai: This virtual reality park is a must-visit for kids who love gaming. The park features a range of VR games and experiences, including roller coasters, escape rooms, and more.
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: This aquarium is home to over 140 species of marine life, including sharks, rays, and fish. Kids can explore the aquarium’s many attractions, including the underwater tunnel and the shark feeding show.
- KidZania Dubai: This indoor theme park is perfect for kids who love to role-play different professions. The park features a range of activities, including firefighting, cooking, and more.
- Hysteria: This haunted house is not for the faint of heart. Kids can experience the thrill of being scared in a safe and controlled environment.
In addition to these activities, Dubai Mall also has a range of entertainment options for kids, including a cinema, an arcade, and a toy store.
Christmas Markets
1. The Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace
The Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace in Dubai is a must-visit destination, enchanting visitors with the magic of winter until January 31st. Located in front of the iconic Habtoor Palace Dubai, this open-to-all garden, welcoming even four-legged friends, hosts a variety of food stalls for a culinary journey. Ideal for families with kids, the Winter Garden boasts entertaining activities, including the Giant Snow Globe, a climbable inflatable globe for photos, and the Bouncy Castle for energetic fun.
Creative youngsters can also engage in Winter Workshops, crafting their own snowflakes and Christmas cards. Adults can partake in the festivities with live music performances and explore the Winter Market, featuring pop-up stalls offering handmade crafts and delectable food.
2. Winter City at Expo City, Dubai
Winter City, a captivating Christmas-themed zone within Expo City Dubai, promises enchantment for visitors of all ages from November 23 to January 8. The Mobility District, Surreal water feature, and Al Wasl Plaza undergo a festive transformation, featuring traditional chalet-style Christmas markets, pine trees, and lively fairground games. Attendees can partake in various activities, including a letter-to-Santa station, a towering tree, and indulging in festive treats from food stalls.
The North Pole Quest stands out as an exciting family experience, where participants follow clues, conquer challenges, and interact with iconic Christmas characters, all while embracing sustainability. Kids engage in crafting sustainable STEM toys, creating letters to Santa with eco-friendly materials, and learning about sustainable practices. The Winter Market completes the experience with pop-up stalls offering handmade crafts and a variety of delectable treats, including gingerbread cookies, hot cocoa, and mulled wine.
3. Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market
Madinat Jumeirah’s Festive Market is a staple during the holiday season in Dubai. With a huge Christmas tree in the middle of the ground, lots of delicious christmas food, games, stalls to buy trinkets, rides and play areas for young children, this is one of the best festive markets for the whole family in Dubai this season.
PS: if you plan to visit on a weekend, do it before 7pm or try to go during weekdays to avoid traffic and parking issues.
4. Sweet Celebrations at Wafi City
Dive into the festive spirit with a holiday season that sparkles like a winter wonderland of sweets. Another well known Dubai festive hotspot, embark on a magical journey at Wafi, where children can discover the enchanting realm of sugary celebrations. Meet Santa’s little helpers, gigantic gingerbread men, a real gingerbread house, a gigantic Christmas tree and Meet Santa and ask him for the gifts your heart desires!
Conclusion
Dubai is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy the winter season. With so many activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your winter activities in Dubai today! Don’t forget to check out our other blog posts for more information on Dubai’s top attractions and events.