Christmas in the UAE may not be quite exactly what we have back in the Philippines, but the closest thing that they have are festive pop-up (night) markets which are very common all over the capital city, Abu Dhabi.
In this post, we list down five must-visit Christmas markets in Abu Dhabi, and the activities (aside from shopping) you can enjoy in these festive locations.
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Check Out These 5 Christmas Markets in Abu Dhabi to Celebrate the Holidays with Family
For many of us, Christmas is a time to get together with families and friends, but when you’re living overseas, sometimes the next best thing to do is simply to enjoy yourself by having some great food, checking out exquisite arts and crafts, and getting those little gifts for yourself, which can be found in most Christmas markets in Abu Dhabi.
Check out our list to know more…
#1 – Swiss Christmas Market at Beach Rotana Residences Promenade
If you’re looking for those special gifts to give your loved ones, you may look no further – because the Swiss Christmas Market at Beach Rotana is the place to be, where over 40 nicely adorned wooden chalets showcasing gifts like ornaments, decorative gifts, and handicraft items are all for the taking.
When it comes to food, expect Swiss specialties like Raclette, a Swiss potato and cheese dish, and Swiss Fondue, a dish best enjoyed with friends.
When: Wednesday, December 4 to Saturday, December 7, 2019
- Wednesday, December 4: 4 pm to 9 pm
- Thursday, December 5: 2 pm to 10 pm
- Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7: 11 am to 10 pm
Where: Beach Residences Promenade, 10th Street, Al Zahiya Area – Abu Dhabi,
Contact Number: Tel: (02) 207 0000
Website: rotana.com
#2 Festive Market at The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa
Starting December 7, Saturday, the Westin Events lawn will transform into a winter wonderland, packed with stalls and plenty of activities for the whole family. Performances include dances by children from local dance schools around Abu Dhabi and a special choir performance at night.
The little ones will be kept busy when they join activities such as Christmas cookie decorations and a fun coloring zone.
However, the main event of the festive market at Westin Abu Dhabi is their annual Santa Chase (don’t forget to register!) which will see the little ones running behind Santa Claus trying to catch him. There’s even a special prize for the one who catches him first!
But don’t worry if you’ll be bringing your kids because there will be three age categories: 9 to 12 years old which begins at 3 pm; 5 to 8 years old which begins at 4 pm; and 2 to 4 years old which begins at 5 pm. But the best news is – entry is free for all.
When: Saturday, December 7, 2019, from noon to 7 pm
Where: The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa, Abu Dhabi
Contact Number: Tel: (02) 616 9999
Website: marriott.com
#3 – Winter Market at Yas Winter Carnival
While there’s plenty of reasons to visit the Yas Winter Carnival, you better not skip on the Christmas Market on site because you will find everything from fashion accessories, art prints, jewelry, home decor, toys, festive gifts and more. The five-day event is free to enter, but you’ll need to register online.
When: Tuesday, December 10 to Saturday, December 14 from 2 pm to 10 pm on Dec 10 and 11, and 2 pm to 11 pm on Dec 12 to 14.
Where: Yas Winter Carnival, Gateway Park South, Yas Island
Website: wintercarnival.ae
#4 – Sanderson’s
If you’ll be visiting near the Al Seef Village Mall, Sanderson’s will be hosting a charming Christmas market starting from 10 am until 4 pm on Saturday, December 14. You will find jewelry retailers such as Le Elegancia and Bead Talks, as well as Balinese inspired bag maker, Cacade Rattan and artisanal local woodcarvers, Woodstock UAE. For those who will be tagging the children along, head down from 1 pm to 4 pm where there are activities such as face painting and games.
When: Saturday, December 14, 2019
Where: Sanderson’s, Al Seef Village Mall, Abu Dhabi
Contact Number: Tel: (02) 222 1142
Website: wearesandersons.com
#5 – Yas Mall
Of course, you can’t miss out on what the largest mall in Abu Dhabi will be pulling off this Christmas season. But here’s a hint: It’s going to be white, cool, and festive! Be sure to check out festive decorations and Santa’s Grotto for the weekend over December 12 to 14. There will also be a festive market that will leave you spoilt for choices for Christmas gifts for your family and friends.
When: December 12 to 24, noon to 11 pm every Thursday and Friday; and noon to 10 pm from Saturday to Wednesday
Where: Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact Number: (02) 414 6401
Website: yasmall.ae
ALSO READ: 8 Museums and Galleries to Visit in Abu Dhabi