Dubai is taking the last month of the year very seriously, and you should too! With all these Christmas events, winter activities, grand concerts, live shows, and so much more happening, do you really have any excuse to sit at home bored this December? I think NOT! Come with me, and let’s dive into all the sensationally fun things you can do in Dubai to end 2024 on a high note!

Also read: 8 Events You Cannot Miss During Dubai’s Month-Long Celebrations From Nov 3 – Dec 3

Spectacular Events In December

1. UAE Eid Al Etihad Celebrations – December 1st to 3rd

Monday, December 2nd marks UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad! From December 1st to 3rd, you’ll find the city splashed in the UAE flag’s iconic colours – red, white, green, and black. Shopping malls, skyscrapers, parks, and beaches will be decked out, creating a festive vibe all around. Dive into the spirit with live concerts, cultural activities, and outdoor shows, plus enjoy amazing discounts, raffle prizes, and staycation deals. This is the time to celebrate UAE’s journey from seven emirates to one united nation since 1971!

2. Ski Dubai’s Winter Wonderland – December 1st to 25th

Get into the holiday spirit at Ski Dubai’s Winter Wonderland! Running from December 1st to 25th, you’ll find festive cheer in a wintery setting – complete with a visit from Santa and his elves. Get your tickets here.

Also read: Have Breakfast With Santa At Ski Dubai This Winter

3. Dubai Shopping Festival – December 6th to January 12th

The Dubai Shopping Festival is back with unbeatable deals, family fun, and endless surprises. From December 6th to January 12th, shopping destinations are abuzz with discounts, exciting raffles, and live performances. Enjoy concerts by international superstars, fashion shows, pop-up markets, and even the chance to win a grand prize of AED 3 million! So, don’t forget to shop till you drop!

4. DSF Fireworks & Drone Show – December 6th to January 12th

For DSF’s 30th anniversary, Dubai’s skies will be bursting with colour and light. Head to Dubai Festival City Mall or the scenic Hatta mountains for a nightly display of fireworks. The shows at Dubai Festival City start at 9 pm, while the Hatta displays light up every Friday and Saturday until January 4th. Meanwhile, the spectacular DSF Drone Show takes over Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR, with twice-daily shows at 8 pm and 10 pm. Watch as drones craft dazzling visuals and spellbinding stories in the sky, with Ain Dubai as the perfect backdrop.

Also read: DSF Brings Back The 321 Festival With Star-Studded Concerts & Free Celebrations

5. Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market – December 6th to 31st

This December, the Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market transforms into a 1,750sqm festive wonderland. With a 36-foot-tall Christmas tree, seasonal stalls, live music, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.

6. Farmers Souq – December 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th

Support local agriculture every Saturday at the Farmers Souq in Quranic Park, Al Khawaneej, from December 7th to February 22nd. Browse fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, honey, herbs, and organic products while connecting with local farmers and entrepreneurs. It’s a great way to enjoy farm-fresh produce, discover new products, and experience Dubai’s vibrant agricultural scene. Doors open at 4:30 pm, and entry is free!

Also read: 5 Winter/Christmas Markets You Can Look Forward In Dubai – Starting This Week!

7. Winter District– December 14th to 22nd

From December 14th to 22nd, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre transforms into a holiday paradise. Get ready for Santa-approved fun with a bustling Christmas market, snow play areas for kids, Santa’s grotto, and joyful Christmas carolers. Capture magical holiday moments with carnival games, kids’ workshops, and a world of holiday-themed decorations.

Incredible Live Shows & Concerts

8. Sundance – December 1

Get ready for an epic weekend at Soul Beach Dubai! Sundance kicks off on November 30th and December 1st, bringing you a mix of music and fashion by the sea. Day one sets the tone with Flo Rida, Sean Kingston, and Iyaz performing their biggest hits, alongside electrifying DJ sets. Day two keeps the party alive with Jason Derulo as the headliner. It’s the perfect blend of beach vibes and chart-topping music! Get your tickets here.

Also read: Jason Derulo To Headline Sundance Dubai 2024 With More International Artists!

9. AKS Dance Festival – December 1

Dubai’s first Bollywood music festival is here! The AKS Dance Festival takes over Zero Gravity from November 30th to December 1st. Expect a beachside celebration packed with Bollywood hits and a twist of Indo-tech beats. On the final day, enjoy performances from local and international stars like 13UXZ, Basspatch, and Sartek. This one’s a must for all music lovers! Get your tickets here.

10. Dubai Caribbean Carnival – December 2

Celebrate in true carnival style with the Dubai Caribbean Carnival on December 2nd. Channel the vibrant energy of J’ouvert with paint, powder, and water in this colorful festival. Dress in clothes you’re okay with getting messy or grab a Carnival Jouvert Jersey from the organizers. It’s all about unity, joy, and letting loose! Get your tickets here.

Also read: Middle East’s First Bollywood Music Festival Comes to Dubai For TWO Days!

11. The Grotto – December 6 to December 31

Experience holiday magic at The Grotto in Dubai Mall from December 6th to January 5th. Journey through Candy Cane Land and the Enchanted Forest, meet Santa’s cheerful elves, and even deliver your letter to Santa in his Merry Mailroom. Open daily from 10 AM to midnight, this is festive fun for the whole family.

12. Shane Todd’s Comedy Show – December 6

Northern Ireland’s comedy star Shane Todd is back in Dubai with his hilarious show Full House on December 6th at the Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. Known for his witty anecdotes and sharp humor, this promises to be an evening of non-stop giggles. Don’t miss the “Prince of Comedy” in action! Get your tickets here.

Also read: 12 Fun Game & Quiz Nights In Dubai Happening Through The Week

13. Da-Bangg Reloaded – December 7

Bollywood brilliance lights up Dubai Harbour with Da-Bangg Reloaded on December 7th. Join Salman Khan, Tamannaah Bhatia, Jacqueline Fernandez, and more for a four-hour extravaganza of stunning performances and entertainment. This is Bollywood like you’ve never seen before! Get your tickets here.

14. Coke Studio Live – December 8

Feel the rhythm of South Asia with Coke Studio Live at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 8th. With stars like Kaifi Khalil and Abdul Hannan performing their viral hits, this event celebrates the rich musical culture of the region. Perfect for fans of fusion sounds and iconic melodies! Get your tickets here.

Also read: 21 Upcoming Concerts In Dubai & Abu Dhabi For 2024

15. Thirty Seconds To Mars Live – December 12

Rock enthusiasts, mark your calendars for December 12th when Thirty Seconds to Mars takes the stage at Coca-Cola Arena. Expect unforgettable performances of hits like The Kill and Kings and Queens alongside tracks from their latest album. It’s a concert you won’t want to miss! Get your tickets here.

16. Sole DXB – December 13 to December 15

The coolest lifestyle event in the region, Sole DXB, returns to Dubai Design District from December 13th to 15th. Enjoy live performances, sports tournaments, and creative workshops. Last year’s edition honored Hip Hop 50 and featured stars like Nas and Busta Rhymes. This year promises even more excitement! Get your tickets here.

Also read: Top Spots to Watch Union Day 2024 Fireworks in Dubai

17. Ricky Martin – December 14

Feel the Latin vibes with Ricky Martin at Coca-Cola Arena on December 14th. From Livin’ La Vida Loca to Vente Pa’ Ca, his high-energy performance is part of the Dubai Shopping Festival. Get ready to dance the night away! Get your tickets here.

18. The Nutcracker At Dubai Opera – December 19 to December 22

Experience the magic of The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera from December 19th to 22nd. Performed by the Astana Opera ballet, this enchanting tale of Clara and her Nutcracker prince is perfect for the festive season. Get your tickets here.

Also read: 5 Incredible New Year’s Concerts To Ring In 2025

19. Lionel Richie Live – December 31

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the iconic Lionel Richie at Atlantis, The Palm. Sing along to timeless classics like Hello and All Night Long as you welcome 2025 in style. Get your tickets here.

20. Indo Warehouse at Terra Solis – December 28

On December 28, Terra Solis Dubai transforms into a vibrant oasis as Indo Warehouse brings its deep South Asian beats to the heart of the desert. Let the captivating fusion of electronic sounds and cultural rhythms guide you through an unforgettable night under the desert stars. Get your tickets here.

Also read: UAE: 16 Christmas Advent Calendars To Buy Before December Starts

Un-Missable Sporting Events

21. Skechers Performance UAE National Day Run – December 1

Celebrate National Day with a run at The Track Meydan Golf on December 1. This community event invites runners of all skill levels to tackle courses of 3km, 5km, 10km, or 21km through closed-off scenic routes. Decorate your running gear with the UAE flag or paint your face to show some national pride. It’s a great way to get moving while celebrating with fellow residents in this family-friendly event! Get your tickets here.

22. Emirates Dubai 7s – December 1

One of the Middle East’s biggest sporting and music festivals, the Emirates Dubai 7s is back from November 29 to December 1. Watch top men’s and women’s rugby teams compete, and enjoy a weekend of food, family activities, and live music. British rapper Stormzy will headline the Frequency on 8 stage on December 1, and pop band Sugababes will rock the Rugby Rocks stage on November 30. With competitions in rugby, netball, and cricket, plus thrilling performances, there’s something for everyone! Get your tickets here.

Also read: UAE: 11 Instagram-Worth Desert Pop-Up To Explore This Winter

23. Dubai World Obstacle Championship – December 5 to 8

Are you up for an extreme challenge? Head to Dubai Design District (D3) from December 5 to 8 for the Dubai World Obstacle Championship. Participants will face intense agility, strength, and resilience tests in 1500m, 2500m, and 5000m obstacle races. If you’re looking for a faster-paced challenge, try the 100m course at Dubai Police Officers’ Club with 12 obstacles. It’s open to all ages, so bring your friends and family for a day of high-energy fun! Get your tickets here.

24. Roy Nasr Memorial Triathlon – December 8

Up for an endurance test? Try the Roy Nasr Memorial Triathlon at Dubai Islands on December 8. This triathlon honors Roy Nasr, co-founder of TriDubai, and offers Super Sprint, Sprint, and Team race categories, with special events for kids and Olympic-distance races. All participants receive medals, certificates, refreshments, and a goody bag for their hard work! Get your tickets here.

Also read: UAE To Get 4 Days Off For The Last Long Weekend Of 2024

25. Dubai Basketball – December 15 & December 29

Catch Dubai Basketball as they take on international teams at the Coca-Cola Arena this December. The city’s first international basketball franchise will face off against top European teams like Spartak Subotika and Igokea m. Get your tickets to cheer on Dubai Basketball in these thrilling matchups. Get your tickets here.

26. Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build Up Rides – November 24

Prepare for the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge with build-up rides at Al Qudra Cycle Track. Designed to improve endurance and fitness, these rides help cyclists get ready for the main event. Riders over 19 can register for the Dubai Big 5, while those 16-18 can join the Dubai Big 5 Junior. It’s a perfect way to gear up for the challenge ahead! Get your tickets here.

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