December is Dubai’s peak season due to the perfect weather and many events. Sheikh Zayed Road is the main road that connects you to all major attractions. Here is a guide to the best things to see during the holiday month.
Downtown Dubai’s Light Shows
Visit the Downtown area for the city’s most famous sights. The Burj Khalifa usually features special LED light shows for the season and New Year’s Eve. Nearby, the Dubai Fountain runs its choreographed water, music, and light show every 30 minutes in the evening, daily from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Festive Markets and Shopping Deals
Dubai is known for its seasonal markets in December. The Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market offers a winter village feel with a large tree, food stalls, and family activities from early to late December.
If you plan a longer trip, staying at Staycae is a good option. Many modern apartments in Dubai for holiday stays are near Sheikh Zayed Road metro stations, offering easy access to attractions and more living space.
Major Events: National Day and DSF
December includes two huge annual events. UAE National Day on December 2nd brings fireworks and drone shows. The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) starts mid-month, offering massive sales, raffles, and entertainment across all major malls until the new year.
Snow, Sand, and Theatres
Take advantage of the mild weather. For winter sports, Ski Dubai is an indoor ski slope inside Mall of the Emirates, right off Sheikh Zayed Road. You can also catch a world-class show like the acrobatics of La Perle by Dragone nearby. December is also the best time for a desert safari, as the evening temperatures are much cooler.