With the year drawing to a close, Dubai enters its most dazzling season. Dubai in December brings crisp, comfortable weather, a packed calendar of events, and a festive buzz that sweeps through the city. Locals and visitors alike make the most of the cooler climate, with outdoor terraces filling up, beaches staying busy, and evenings perfect for city strolls or rooftop drinks.
In this guide, we explore why December is one of Dubai’s most magical months to visit. From winter markets and desert escapes to festive dining and cultural highlights, we’ll help you plan your trip around the very best the city has to offer.
Dubai Weather In December
Dubai Weather Snapshot (2024 Data):
- Highs: Up to 26°C
- Average Temperature: Around 21°C
- Lows: Around 16°C
- Average Monthly Rainfall: 10.6mm
- Muggy Days (Humidity): Around 2.3 days per month
December brings clear, pleasant days and refreshingly mild nights, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, beach trips, and evening strolls. Rain remains uncommon and light, with just a couple of brief showers – enough to feel fresh, but not enough to disrupt plans. Sunshine hangs around for roughly 10½ hours per day, and mild breezes keep the atmosphere crisp.
Humidity eases into the mid‑50s, creating a significantly less muggy climate compared to summer. All in all, this is among the most comfortable months for visitors, combining sunshine, easy-going weather, and minimal rain – one of the main drivers behind Dubai’s busy peak season.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
Without question – December is one of the most popular and rewarding times to visit Dubai. The weather is near-perfect for exploring the city from morning till night, with the stifling summer heat now a distant memory. It’s a time when outdoor living returns in full force, and Dubai puts on one of its most impressive shows of the year.
What makes December particularly special is the combination of mild, sunny days and a festive city-wide atmosphere. It’s ideal for everything from beach lounging and alfresco dining to cultural tours and desert adventures. The lower humidity adds to the comfort, while cool evenings are perfect for rooftop drinks or strolling around markets and waterfronts.
This is also when Dubai’s event calendar really shines. The city hosts everything from Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve fireworks to major festivals, concerts, and the world-famous Dubai Shopping Festival, which often kicks off in the final days of the month.
Of course, popularity comes with a price. December is firmly in the peak travel season, so expect higher hotel rates, busier attractions, and the need to book restaurants, tours, and stays well in advance. But for many, the buzz, weather, and sheer variety of things to do more than justify the timing.
Dubai in December with Kids
December is one of the best times of year to visit Dubai as a family. With the intense summer heat long gone, the city transforms into an open-air playground packed with activities for children of all ages. Days are comfortably sunny, evenings are cool, and school holidays make it an especially popular time for family trips.
Outdoor attractions are at their best. Parks like Dubai Safari Park and Dubai Miracle Garden are in full swing, while the festive lights at Dubai Garden Glow and the immersive zones at Global Village offer magical evenings out. Beaches like JBR and La Mer are ideal for daytime fun, with soft sand, splash zones, and seaside cafés that welcome families.
What sets December apart is the festive atmosphere. Hotels and malls put on special Christmas-themed events, Santa sightings pop up across the city, and places like Ski Dubai transform into full-blown winter wonderlands. It’s an easy way to add some holiday sparkle to a warm-weather escape.
Indoor attractions are still big hits too – from KidZania and The Green Planet to the Dubai Aquarium and the futuristic exhibits at AYA Universe and the Museum of the Future.
For more information on things to do with kids in Dubai check out our article ‘10 Things To Do With Kids In Dubai’.
Things To Do in Dubai in December
December marks one of Dubai’s most dynamic and atmospheric months. With mild weather and a festive spirit in the air, the city offers the perfect backdrop for making the most of both its iconic landmarks and seasonal highlights.
While Dubai’s year-round attractions remain a draw, it is the return of outdoor living, long beach days, alfresco evenings and open air experiences that really defines the month. Public spaces come alive with activity and a distinct holiday buzz can be felt across malls, markets and neighbourhoods.
From laid back daytime outings to lively evenings under twinkling lights, December opens up a wide range of things to do with plenty that is only available at this time of year.
Note: Event schedules can vary slightly year to year, so always check platforms like Dubai Calendar or Platinumlist for the most current info.
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
Timing: Starts early December and runs into January
Dubai’s biggest annual shopping celebration, DSF features massive sales, pop-up markets, raffles, fireworks, drone shows, and concerts across the city. Malls and outdoor venues like JBR and Dubai Festival City become hubs of activity, with live entertainment and family-friendly programming.
Expo City Winter City
Timing: Throughout December
Held at the former Expo 2020 site, this festive event transforms Expo City into a winter-themed wonderland. Expect holiday markets, snow play areas, themed workshops, and plenty of seasonal décor – ideal for families and festive photo ops.
Global Village Festive Season
Timing: Throughout December (part of the Global Village season)
This multicultural open-air destination lights up with festive décor, themed shows, and international street food. December brings a stronger seasonal focus, including winter-themed entertainment and Christmas market vibes across several pavilions.
Dubai Lights
Timing: Late November to early January
An annual public art initiative that places large-scale light installations across key areas like Al Seef, Bluewaters Island, and City Walk. Great for evening strolls and night photography, the displays often follow creative or cultural themes and change each year.
Winter District at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
Timing: Mid to late December
A recurring open-air winter market filled with festive food stalls, snow-themed play zones, parades, bouncy castles, and stage performances. Aimed at families and social groups looking to soak in the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Markets (Various Locations)
Timing: Throughout December
Madinat Jumeirah, Habtoor Palace, and other venues typically host traditional European-style markets with chalet-style stalls, mulled drinks, gingerbread workshops, carol singing, and even visits from Santa. These Christmas market events are held annually and attract both tourists and residents.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Timing: December 31
Dubai is globally known for its NYE fireworks, with major displays at Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, and along the waterfront. While the performers may vary, the scale and spectacle of the celebrations are consistent year after year. Many public beaches and rooftops offer great views.
For a detailed guide on what to expect on New Year’s Eve, read out ‘2026 New Year’s Eve in Dubai‘ guide.
Cost of Flights in December
In December, airfares from London to Dubai tend to peak due to the festive season, making it one of the most expensive travel periods of the year. According to Virgin Atlantic, standard return fares hover around £502 for December 2025—only slightly higher than November pricing. This aligns with KAYAK, which identifies December as one of the most expensive months to fly, putting average round-trip fares at approximately £636 (with November slightly lower but still elevated).
Budget searches reveal that, although rare, some one-way fares can start from £333 for return trips from Heathrow, with occasional deals dipping as low as £312 in recent weeks. However, these remain outliers, and typical November‑December fares tend to be higher than off‑peak months – March, for example, averages around £445.
If you’re targeting cheaper fares in December, consider these strategies: booking 2–3 months in advance, flying on mid‑week days like Tuesday or Thursday, avoiding high‑traffic windows around December 5–10 and 18–23, and keeping fare alerts active. While early December fares are generally steadier, expect a sharp upwards curve in the run‑up to Christmas and New Year.
Where to Stay in Dubai in December
With festive buzz in full swing and ideal weather across the city, December is a popular time to visit Dubai — and that means accommodation options can fill up quickly. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach break or a vibrant city escape, there are great places to stay that suit every style and budget.
Resorts and Hotels
December is the perfect time to enjoy Dubai’s beachfront resorts and rooftop pools. If you’re after high-end luxury, properties like Jumeirah Al Naseem and One&Only Royal Mirage offer serene surroundings, outstanding service, and stunning views – with seasonal decorations adding an extra touch of magic.
For something more central, hotels around Downtown and Business Bay, such as Address Fountain Views or Radisson Blu Dubai Waterfront, place you near the action, close to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa’s festive light shows.
If you’re travelling on a more modest budget, options like Rove Downtown or Studio One Hotel provide great value without compromising on style or convenience. These hotels are especially popular with younger travellers and families looking to balance comfort and cost.
Holiday Rentals in Dubai
For those who prefer the space and flexibility of a holiday rental, December is a fantastic time to book. Locations like Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina, and Downtown are particularly popular due to their walkability and proximity to major events.
At Zennova Holidays, we offer a curated selection of modern apartments that are ideal for couples, families, and groups — many with balconies perfect for enjoying the mild evenings or watching New Year’s Eve fireworks. December is one of our busiest months, so early booking is strongly recommended if you want your pick of top views and premium amenities.
What to Wear in Dubai in December
With warm days and cooler evenings, December is one of the most comfortable months for dressing in Dubai. Lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen work well during the day, while a light jumper or jacket is handy for evenings, especially outdoors.
Modest clothing is expected in public places. Aim to cover shoulders and knees when visiting malls, mosques, or cultural sites. Loose-fitting dresses, skirts, and trousers are ideal. A scarf or shawl can also be useful for women in more traditional settings.
Swimwear is fine at pools and private beaches but should be covered when walking through public areas. Comfortable sandals or trainers are best for exploring, and many evening venues call for smart-casual outfits like a dress or tailored shirt and trousers.
Is Dubai Crowded During December?
Yes, December is one of the busiest times to visit Dubai. With the combination of winter sun, school holidays, and festive celebrations, tourist numbers are at their peak. Attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Global Village, and Dubai Mall are especially popular, with weekends and holiday periods drawing large crowds.
Restaurants, beach clubs, and desert tours tend to book up quickly, so advance reservations are strongly recommended. While the city is well-equipped to manage high visitor volumes, planning ahead is key to enjoying a smooth and stress-free trip.
Average Costs of a Trip to Dubai in December
Visiting Dubai in December is popular due to its pleasant weather and festive atmosphere, but it also means travel costs tend to be higher as it falls within the city’s peak tourist season. Flights to Dubai during December vary depending on your departure location and how far in advance you book. From the UK, return fares typically range between £400 and £700, with some budget options available if booked early. From other major European hubs, prices are often similar, while flights from the US usually average between $1,100 and $1,350.
Package deals that include flights and accommodation start from around £1,200 for a five-night stay per person, though prices can rise significantly during the festive period. For families or longer visits, total trip costs can easily reach between £3,000 and £6,000 depending on the choice of hotel, activities, and dining options. While budget travellers can keep daily costs lower, Dubai’s reputation for luxury experiences means overall expenses often climb during December.
Booking well in advance is recommended to secure the best rates, as hotel occupancy and flight demand increase sharply at this time of year. Many visitors find the extra cost worthwhile for the combination of mild weather, seasonal events, and world-class attractions. Using fare comparison websites and package deals can help to find better offers and make your trip more affordable.
Sources include BudgetYourTrip, Expedia, KAYAK, Emirates Vacations, Trip.com, Champion Traveler, Luxtripper, Skyscanner, Cheapflights, and The Times.
What to Pack for Dubai in December
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and air-conditioned spaces
- Swimwear for pools and beach visits
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers for walking
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for cultural sites
- Sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Smart casual outfits for evenings at restaurants or events