Everything you need to know about visiting Dubai in December
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December is probably our favourite month for encouraging visitors to come to Dubai and the UAE. There is so much to enjoy, from the perfect weather to National Day and Christmas festivities around town – though it is also one of the most expensive times to visit.
Dubai Weather in December
If it’s the scorching summer heat that has ever put you off visiting Dubai, then get set for the wonderfully mild days of December.
Average daytime highs of around 26°C/78.8°F and seawater temperatures of 25.6°C/78°F are experienced in Dubai in December; it can even be a little too nippy for ocean swimming – make sure your resort or hotel has a temperature-controlled pool!
You can read our complete guide to Dubai Weather in December here, as well as our suggested ideas of what to pack for Dubai in December.
Dubai Special Events December 2022
- Commemoration Day – 1 December (Public Holiday) – in honour of those soldiers who served their country and lost their lives for the UAE. Previously called Martyrs Day, this day of national importance and reflection has been moved to coincide with the National Day holidays.
- National Day – 2/3 December (Public Holiday) – marking the occasion of the country’s federation in 1971. You will find 51st Anniversary “Spirit of the Union” events across the city.
- The Emirates Dubai Rugby 7’s – back bigger and better than ever, one of the city’s biggest sporting events will take place from 1 to 3 December 2022 at the Sevens Stadium on the outskirt of the city. Learn more here.
- Christmas Festivities – a great lineup of events is still expected across the city, from markets to opera shoes, kids singalong events and, of course, Christmas Day brunches and takeaway meals. NB Christmas Day is NOT a public holiday in the UAE. You can find our complete listing of Christmas events in Dubai here.
- New Year’s Eve – 31 December always sees spectacular fireworks show that light up many of the city’s famous buildings. Crowds can be manic, and hotel costs in prime locations are sky-high, so book well in advance to enjoy this one! Find the lineup of New Year’s Eve events here.
Suggested Dubai activities in December this December
Given the mild sunny days, it’s a perfect time of year to do some of Dubai’s more physical outdoor activities. Our top picks for this December are:
- Take on the Ras al Khaimah zipline course – Jebel Jais Flight! Not only the longest zipline in the world, where speeds can reach up to 160kms an hour but also Jebel Jais Tour – seven different zipline courses that meet on a suspended platform in the Hajar Mountains.
Top tip: If you don’t fancy the self-drive up to Ras al Khaimah, check out this tour which can pick you up from your Dubai hotel. It includes transfers to Jebel Jais and the zipline experience.
- This is the perfect time of year to experience Dubai Garden Glow, Dinosaur Park, and the Ice Park in Zabeel Park. An evening wonderland, the festive season makes it all the more magical.
- Take a tour of the UAE’s east coast. Cross the spectacular Hajar Mountains and experience the calm, warm waters of the Gulf of Oman. There are snorkelling opportunities, as well as boat tours that can take you in amongst the spectacular khors of Musandam, Oman, without needing to cross the land border. Check out this east coast Fujairah day trip, or you can hire your own car and set your own pace.
Top tip: Stay nearby at the JA Hatta Fort Hotel to make a full weekend of it, or enjoy luxury glamping under the stars at Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort.
- FIFA World Cup – although the main event is taking place over the borders in Qatar, make no mistake Dubai will be the hub of activity around the 2022 World Cup. Taking place from 20 November to 18 December 2022, check out this wide range of Dubai venues screening the World Cup. Shuttle flight services will run from Dubai to Doha multiple times per day if you want to just fly in and out for matches and base yourself in Dubai.
Dubai with the kids in December
This is a fabulous time of year to visit Dubai with your family, though, as we’ve mentioned, it is also one of the most expensive times to visit, and accommodation does book up in popular locations.
We suggest families look at booking serviced apartments or Airbnb – we have selected our favourite Dubai family apartment options here – or go all out if you’re in a big group and book a family villa with a pool!
There are activities aplenty for families to enjoy, some suggestions for December:
- Attend a Christmas show at the QE2 Theatre – this hotel-come-entertainment venue permanently docked at Port Rashid is a wonderful family experience with winter shows a highlight. This year there are several feature shows, including Magic Phil’s Starlight Safari and The Snow Queen from 16 to 26 December 2022. See the full Theatre by QE2 line up here.
- Swing your way through Mushrif Park – a little hidden gem on the outskirts of the city is Aventura Parks – high ropes and zip lines through the almost forest-like Mushrif Park. Ideal in winter when the waterparks are getting a little cool, but your kids still want an active adventure – other than the occasional Emirates flight landing over your heads, you won’t believe you’re in the city! Check out session times and pricing here.
- Thrilling roller coasters at Motiongate – home to the most thrilling rollercoasters in the Middle East, Motiongate, part of the Dubai Parks & Resorts complex on the city’s western side, is a family favourite of ours. Rides cross all ages and interests, from the giant indoor Dreamworks to Lionsgate and thrilling Hunger Games rides. Stay at Lapita Resort or Rove at the Park and get your theme park tickets included or check out the One Day Pass here.
You can find our complete family guide to Dubai with over 80 suggestions on family activities in Dubai here.
Splurge for December in Dubai
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Check out the best things to do in every month in Dubai here!
Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai
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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel, event or tour recommendation links. First published November 2019, updated for December 2020.
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