Dubai in December is magical, offering an incredible combination of cool and sunny weather. The city comes to life with several attractions and a festive vibe. The annual Dubai Shopping Festival, which offers amazing bargains and shopping extravaganzas, begins in December. The best time to visit Dubai is in December when the city is bustling with activities and celebrations.
Dubai Weather in December
The weather in Dubai in December is a wonderful escape from the sweltering summer heat.
- Average Temperature – High – 26 degrees Celcius Low – 14 degrees Celcius
- Average Rainfall – 0.4 to 1.7 inches
- Daily Wind Speed – 7.9 mph
- Temperature of the sea – 23ºC
- Daily hours of sunshine – an average of 8 to 9 hours of daylight per day.
Places to Visit in Dubai in December
1) Dubai Safari Park
Families with young children should visit Dubai Safari Park. This eco-friendly wildlife park is home to over 2500 animals. The reptile house at Dubai Safari Park is a highlight, where visitors can get up close and personal with fascinating reptiles, including crocodiles, lizards, and snakes.
The park features themed villages, including the Arabian, Asian, and African Villages. Dubai Safari Park tickets can be purchased online in advance, helping you skip long queues and secure your entry during peak season.
2) Aquaventure Water Park
Aquaventure Water Park in Dubai is a must-see location that provides thrill-seekers and families with an exciting getaway. This water park, housed at Atlantis, The Palm, has several exhilarating slides, lazy rivers, and a spotless private beach.
Visitors can enjoy attractions like the thrilling Rapids river ride, the record-breaking Leap of Faith slide, and the kid-friendly play area.
3) Madinat Jumeirah
Adjacent to upscale hotels such as Mina Al Salam and Al Qasr is the Madinat Jumeirah, an Arabian souk market. The Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market is among the most eagerly awaited events. There is live music, traditional cuisine and drinks, and the market is open for business for just sixteen days a year.
For those travelling with children who need entertainment while shopping, there is a sizable snowball zone, a gingerbread house, and other play places.
4) Burj Khalifa At the Top
Christmas in Dubai would not be complete without visiting the most famous structure, Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world. Levels 124 and 125 have the primary observation decks. You will be at an altitude of about 450 meters. You can get a 360-degree view of the city from the observation decks, which are enclosed by floor to ceiling glass.
You may eat in style at Atmosphere restaurant and bar while snapping pictures and discovering more about this amazing building. Since sunsets are the busiest times of day, you risk missing them if you do not book your tickets in advance.
5) Miracle Garden
A visit to Miracle Garden in December is a must. The 72000 square metre Miracle Garden is open from November to May each year. With more than 50 million blooms and 200 million natural plants, this stunning attraction in Dubai is the largest natural floral garden.
This is the place to go if you have always wanted to be an Instagram influencer since it provides the best photos that do not require filters. You will witness a real Emirates Airlines A380 aircraft decked in vibrant flowers. The 3D forms of life-sized animals, the aerial floating lady, the Emirates plane, cartoon characters, and many more are among the most notable exhibits.
6) Global Village
A popular wintertime destination in Dubai for many years, Global Village is one of the most recognisable sights. It is the largest multicultural amusement park in the world and features attractions for adults and children. There is so much to see that seeing every pavilion takes a whole day.
The tastiest dishes at Global Village include American burgers, Turkish ice cream, roasted corn, shawarma sandwiches, pasta in a wheel of cheese, Indian biryanis and hopefully enough room for dessert. Every night at Global Village, there is a water fountain performance along with fireworks.
Things to Do in Dubai in December
Dubai offers an extensive list of things to do in Dubai in December.
- Check out the Burj Khalifa
- Explore the Dubai Mall
- Make reservations for a Desert Safari Tour
- Admire the stunning floral displays in Dubai Miracle Garden
- Attend a live performance at Dubai Opera
- Learn about the history of the city in the Al Fahidi Fort
- Go to the Dubai Shopping Festival
- Take pleasure in water sports activities
- Take a Dhow Cruise
- See a Le Perle Show
- Visit a Christmas Market
What to Eat in Dubai in December?
- December is the ideal time to enjoy the rich flavours of traditional Emirati cuisine. Taste foods like Luqaimat, Al Harees, and Machboos.
- You can find restaurants selling Indian, Mediterranean, Lebanese, French, and Japanese cuisine in Dubai. Popular restaurants are, Zuma, COYA, Punjabi Dhaba, and Al Nafoorah.
- There are plenty of upscale restaurants and hotels in Dubai that provide festive dining options for Christmas. Enjoy Christmas dinners or brunches at the Ritz-Carlton, Jumeirah Al Naseem, and Atlantis The Palm. Try festive treats like roast turkey,
Christmas pudding and other delicacies. - You must try the street food in Dubai. For real street food like Shawarma, Falafel, and Kebabs, visit places like Al Satwa or Al Karama.
- As a coastal city, Dubai offers excellent seafood. Restaurants serve fresh fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters. Popular restaurants to try are Pierchic and Bu Qtair.
Where to Stay in Dubai in December?
- Luxurious Hotels – There are plenty of top-notch hotels in Dubai. The Burj Al Arab is among the most luxurious hotels in the world. Check out Atlantis The Palm in Palm Jumeirah for a more contemporary yet opulent experience. It features an aquarium, a private water park and access to a private beach. Other options include the Four Seasons Resort Dubai and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
- Mid-range Accommodations – Dubai has plenty of mid-range hotels that provide excellent service. Hotels like Rove Downtown or Hilton Garden Inn Mall of the Emirates are reasonably priced hotels in prime locations. These hotels are also close to major attractions, making them ideal for sightseeing.
- Budget Stays – Travellers on a tight budget must know that it is possible to experience Dubai on budget, even in December. Look for accommodations near Al Barsha or Bur Dubai for budget hotels that provide easy access to public transport.
What to Wear in Dubai in December?
The following is a guide on what to wear in Dubai in December.
- Light apparel, such as t-shirts, blouses and comfortable trousers or skirts, is perfect during the day because of the mild temperatures. Cotton fabrics are recommended as they are breathable. If you plan to visit beaches or water parks, bring your swimwear. Remember to cover up when moving around in public areas.
- December evenings can be chilly, particularly in the desert or close to bodies of water. Bring along a lightweight coat, pullover, or wrap for chilly evenings. It is appropriate to wear sophisticated casual clothing to events or when preparing to eat at a fancy restaurant.
- You must wear comfortable walking shoes, particularly if you intend to visit Dubai’s outdoor attractions or malls. While sandals are fantastic for daytime wear, closed-toe shoes are preferable for hiking expeditions and desert safaris.
- It is important to dress modestly in public spaces like malls or cultural sites. Women should cover their knees and shoulders, especially at traditional markets or mosques.
- If you intend to engage in particular activities such as a desert safari, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and dress in layers. Sunglasses are needed for daytime outings, and a scarf or cap might help shield you from the desert sun.
Best Tips for Visiting Dubai in December
Here are some tips to make the most of your trip.
- December is the busiest travel month. To get the greatest rates, make your reservations in advance for your travel, lodging, and must-see activities.
- It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural sites. You can wear swimwear by the pool or at the beach.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, as Dubai may still be dry even in the cooler months.
- Visit souks including the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
- Attend the Dubai Shopping Festival and the New Year Eve festivities.
- Learn about the rules and customs of the area, such as the prohibition against drinking in public during the day.
- There are many taxis and an effective metro system in Dubai. Using public transit is an inexpensive and convenient means of getting around.
- Carry local currency for small purchases.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unforeseen events.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Dubai in December can be a fantastic experience due to the pleasant weather and festive atmosphere. By following these tips, you can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to Dubai in December. If you prefer slightly warmer temperatures and fewer crowds, visit Dubai in November for a peaceful experience before the holiday rush begins.
FAQ’s