1. Have a smashing, splashing time at Aquaventure
Treat yourselves to a Season Pass and you can enjoy unlimited fun at Dubai’s top waterpark (and The Lost Chambers Aquarium) for a full 90 days.
Dhs399 (adults), Dhs299 (children). UAE residents only. Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, atlantis.com/dubai/atlantis-aquaventure/annual-season-pass
2. Let someone else cook this Christmas
Put down those recipe books and take the gang over to Atlantis where you’ll be inundated with seasonal specials at its 11 remarkable restaurants.
Prices and times vary. Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, www.atlantis.com
3. Have a seasonal staycation near a supreme shopping spot
Mall of the Emirates fans should definitely make their DSF experience easier by taking advantage of a ten per cent discount on a Hilton family break.
From Dec 17-Jan 30 (but not Dec 27-Jan 4). DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Residences Dubai Al Barsha, hilton.com/doubletree/dubai
4. Bag a bargain buffet at Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai
Refuel after a shopping spree at The Dubai Mall with buy one, get one free on Thursday’s Seafood soirée or the Italian ‘notte’ of a Friday.
Thu & Fri 7pm-11pm. Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai, Al Mustaqbal Street (opposite The Dubai Mall), facebook.com/SwissotelAlMuroojDubai/
5. Try out Dubai’s newest adventure park
Warm up for some splurging at Dubai Festival City by taking on the full range of activities at The Arch, including an entirely exhilarating zipline.
From Dhs100. Until December 31. Open Sun-Wed 2pm-10pm, Thu-Sat noon-midnight. Dubai Festival City Mall, dubai.platinumlist.net
6. Support regional designers at Gigi
Short of gift ideas? This concept store has a superb selection of clothing, jewellery and accessories, interior design inspiration and unique art. All by Middle-Eastern talent.
Open daily 10am-10pm. Galleria Mall Al Barsha, gigiconcept.com
7. Visit a top culinary hub
The Japanese-inspired Depachika Food Hall has many highlights, including the brilliant Kushi by Reif. Buy someone special a Nakheel Mall gift card and let them dig in.
Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Palm Jumeirah, nakheelmall.ae
8. Give your home a dash of added sparkle
The new Chattels and More store in Nakheel Mall is the perfect place to find furnishings to spruce up your abode, especially with up to 75 per cent off.
Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Palm Jumeirah, nakheelmall.ae
9. Discover a pop-up eatery at the Burj Al Arab
Chic beach club and Mediterranean ristorante Sal is as classy yet casual as they come. Try the sea salt-crusted sea bass as you gaze out on to the Gulf.
Open daily 12.30pm-11pm (restaurant), 10am-6pm (beach club). Burj Al Arab, jumeirah.com/en/dine/dubai/burj-al-arab-sal
10. Mark a path to the Food District
This new two-storey licensed culinary hub includes some 13 homegrown outlets including Dibba Bay Osters and The Roost. Perfect for a bite post your Pointe shop.
Open daily 9am-10pm (ground floor); Sat-Wed noon-midnight, Thu-Fri noon-2am. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, thepointe.ae/en/dine/food-district
11. Get ready for the Maine Event
This recent arrival at Zaha Hadid’s Magnum Opus combines a modern-day speakeasy style with a cracking menu specialising in seafood and steaks. Look out for the Christmas specials.
Open daily noon-midnight. The MAINE Land Brasseries, ME Dubai, Business Bay, themainelandbrasserie.com
12. Go loony for Lana Lusa
The super-friendly, super-laidback Portuguese eatery urges you to share its bold, vibrant plates. Perfect for the season of giving, then.
Open Sun-Thu 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, lanalusa.com
13. Find a foodies’ haven at SLAB
Omar Rodriguez brings you his experimental seasonal menus that will truly tantalise your taste buds, especially after a hard day’s shopping at Mercato Mall.
Open daily 9am-10pm. Mercato Mall, Jumeirah Street, facebook.com/slabitdubai/
14. Let ballet light up your Christmas Eve
Witness Snow Angels come to life as this troupe of LED-lit ballerinas combine classical dance with some urban dubstep.
Dec 23 5.55pm, 6.45pm and 8.50pm. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/market-otb
15. Have a sweet sing-along while shopping the bazaar
Festive trio Dolce are playing three sets on Christmas Day, each one promising to fill your hearts with festive cheer.
Christmas Day 6.25pm, 7.55pm, 9.30pm. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/market-otb
16. Enjoy some live Latin guitar
Beat those Boxing Day blues with some live music action thanks to the hugely talented German Cova. Feliz Navidad, everyone.
Boxing Day 1.50pm, 3.30pm and 6.25pm. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, youtu.be/S0t24z4pZm8
17. Witness some Elf Mischief
A pair of elves have escaped Santa’s grotto and are roaming the market performing juggling tricks and playing pranks on visitors.
Christmas Eve 4pm and 5.20pm, Christmas Day 5.55pm. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/market-otb
18. Marvel at some fast art with Speed and Sparkle
This superbly skilled speed artist will make be showing off their talent for quick creativity by knocking out glitter-laden portraits in a matter of minutes.
Christmas Day 4.45pm. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/market-otb
19. Find that perfect gift for him
Buying for the men in your life can be quite tricky, especially if they’re picky. So visit The Gentleman’s Community and let them do the hard work for you.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, thegentlemanscommunity.com
20. Say it with socks this Yuletide
No, we’re not joking. Socks Apart are a husband-and-wife duo determined to give everyone happy feet, one odd pair at a time.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, socksapart.com
21. Roll up, roll up for some lovely lobster
Even the most hardened DSF shoppers need to take a break now and again so grab one of Lobster Roll’s specialities or even some of their mouth-watering mac & cheese.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, instagram.com/lobstteroll
22. Grease your wheels with Fluff Bites
Never tried a wheel cake before? You don’t know what you’re missing. These East Asian favourites are like filled doughnuts, only fluffier. Try the Biscoff one, just yum.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, instagram.com/fluffbitesdxb
23. Let the kids run wild while you browse the stalls
Children can find shopping trips a little dull (unless it’s their birthday, of course) so pack them off to the Slime Park where they can get knee deep in gunge.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/market-otb
24. Send your loved ones a piece of Dubai
Can’t have family over for Christmas? Well you can always send them a memento of our great city at the Dubai-branded stall.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/market-otb
25. Catch a consummate Christmas Cracker
Enjoy a special screening of The Royal Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker, filmed live at The Royal Opera House in London’s Covent Garden.
Tickets from Dhs75. Dec 23, 8pm. The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates, artforall.ae
26. Have a good giggle with a Dutch master
Popular stand-up Najib Amhali is coming to DWTC, bringing his irreverent take on what it means to be an immigrant in the cultural melting pot of The Netherlands.
Tickets from Dhs180. Dec 23, 8pm. Hall 8, Dubai World Trade Centre, visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar/najib-amhali
27. Get ready for some ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ at La Mer
The super seaside spot is hosting a DSF fireworks spectacular this weekend. Book at a table at your favourite restaurant and have a banging evening all round.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 9pm. La Mer, lamerdubai.ae
28. Witness some circus-style action on ice
Billed as an ‘ice show beyond imagination’, Cirque de Glace brings to life the story of Earth’s creation, man’s evolution and a journey to the limits of technology, all on skates.
Tickets from Dhs295. Christmas Eve, 8pm; Christmas Day 2pm and 8pm; Boxing Day 2pm and 8pm (doors open 30 minutes before the show). Dubai Opera Auditorium, dubaiopera.com/events/cirque-de-glace/
29. Join a Christmas Day Laugh-A-Thon
Hinglish stand-up Aakash Gupta, winner of the second series of Prime Video’s Comicstaan, will have the QE2 rocking with laughter.
From Dhs85.50. Christmas Day 6pm (doors open 30 minutes before the show). Theatre by QE2, Port Rashid, theatrebyqe2.com
30. Enjoy some fizzing pop at the Coca-Cola Arena
The MUSAIC Concert will bring together Mohamed Hamaki and Mahmoud El Esseily, two of Arabic music’s biggest stars of 2020.
Tickets from Dhs250. Christmas Day, 9pm (doors open 60 minutes before the show). Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, coca-cola-arena.com/en/events/Musaic-Concert
31. Get your Kix with four hours of comedy
Playfield Comedy Kix is bringing a stand-up extravaganza to DWTC with 20 comedians from 15 different countries.
Tickets from Dhs75. Christmas Day 7pm. Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre, playfield.ae
32. Grab your chance to win a cool million
Spend a minimum of Dhs300 at Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif or City Centre Deira and you could walk away with Dhs1million of SHARE points.
Until Jan 30. Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Deira, sharerewards.com
33. Bag Boxing Day savings of up to 90 per cent
More than 100 stores are set to offer crazy discounts during the incredible 12-hour sale at Majid Al Futtaim Malls. Also, if you spend Dhs300 or more at these venues you’ll have a chance to win one million Share Points.
Boxing Day 10am-10pm. Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, City Centre Me’aisem, City Center Al Shindagha and My City Centre Al Barsha, majidalfuttaim.com
34. Be first in line as DSF Sale Season kicks off
Top global brands will be among the more than 800 handing out up to 75 per cent discounts across 3,500 outlets. The sheer scale of the five-week sale is staggering.
Boxing Day to January 30, daily 10am-10pm. Across Dubai, mydsf.ae
35. Snaffle a large cash sum with the DSMG raffle
Simply Shop, Spin and Win at Dubai Shopping Mall Group’s venues this DSF and you could instantly become Dhs400,000 richer.
Until Jan 30 (next draw on Boxing Day). At participating DSMG malls, dubaimallsgroup.com
36. Lose yourself (or try not to) in the WonderMaze
With three storeys and three exciting themes it will be hard not to get caught up in the sheer wonder at Al Khawaneej Walk. Arrive early to beat the queues.
Open Sun-Wed 6pm-midnight, Thu-Sat 4pm-2am. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
37. Witness some crazy capers in Wonderland
Week two of the Lewis Carroll-inspired DSF market at Al Khawaneej Walk lets you delve into The Mad Hatter’s World, with a stage show full of the weird and wonderful.
Dec 24-30. Thu-Sat 4pm, 6.20pm, 8.30pm and 10.20pm; Sun-Wed 6pm, 8.10pm and 10.10pm. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
38. Take to the stage and show off your general knowledge
Ever dreamt of appearing on a gameshow? Well now is your chance as there are three or more quizzes a day, all offering you the chance to win some amazing prizes.
Until Christmas Eve. Sun-Wed 6.30pm, 8.30pm and 10.30pm; Thu-Sat 4.30pm, 6.30pm, 8.30pm and 10.30pm. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
39. Get crafty with a wide range of workshops
The creative types among you, both young and old, can learn a new skill including how to make your own mask or bookmark.
Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, sessions start every 45 minutes from 4pm to midnight. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
40. Dress up as your favourite character and bag a prize
The main stage will be abundant with fancy dress for the Cosplay competitions where only the most convincing will prevail.
Dec 24-30. Sun-Wed 7pm, 9pm and 11pm; Thu-Sat 5pm, 7pm, 9pm and 11pm. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
41. Meet the Mad Hatter and other oddballs from Wonderland
Seek out the bizarre folk from this timeless tale, take a socially distanced selfie with them and ask them burning questions such as ‘what is your favourite brand of tea?’
Dec 24-30. Sun-Wed 7pm, 9pm and 11pm; Thu-Sat 5pm, 7pm, 9pm and 11pm. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
42. Unearth a unique Christmas pressie
This brilliant DSF market has a huge collection of local retailers from whom you can pick up a gift that’s as individual as they are.
Ongoing. Open Sun-Wed 6pm-midnight; Thu-Sat 4pm-2am. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
43. Make it a movie night
Head down to the outdoor cinema where they’ll be showing a different flick every evening of the week. They have some real family favourites lined up, too.
Ongoing. Every night at 8pm. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
44. Experience the past reimagined at Al Seef
The historic Dubai Creek provides a backdrop like no other for the DSF Market at Al Seef. If you get the chance, make sure you arrive via an abra ride across the water.
Christmas Eve until Jan 23. Open Sun-Wed 4pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 2pm-midnight. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
45. Discover choco-lots of fun for the kids
Combining children, chocolate and art – where could you possibly go wrong? Send the little ones along to this wonderful workshop where they can learn how to make choco crispies and tie-dye.
Dec 24-30. Sun-Wed 4pm-9pm, Thu-Sat 2pm-9pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
46. Learn how to create a kaleidoscope
Parents of a certain age will know these optical gizmos well. So sign your little creatives up for this workshop and be taken back to your own childhood with the results.
Dec 24-30. Sun-Wed 4pm-9pm, Thu-Sat 2pm-9pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
47. Make use of that sizzling shiny thing in the sky
We live in a city where cloudy days are a huge rarity. Let the kids harness such supreme solar power by creating their own sun catchers.
Dec 24-26, 2pm-9pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
48. Say howdy to Gaudí at Al Seef
In a tribute to the Catalan master Antoni Gaudí, stilt walkers will wander Al Seef, appearing to have come straight out of one of his abstract ceramic mosaics.
Dec 24-26, 4pm, 5pm and 6pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
49. Be illuminated by ballet
A troupe of ballerinas lit up by LED lights (and wearing the pointiest of pointy shoes) will be there to dazzle you (not literally, we hope) on the creekside.
Dec 24-26, 6.45pm, 7.30pm, 8.05pm and 10.15pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
50. Celebrate chocolate week at Al Seef
A whole seven days devoted to the sweet stuff? Yes, please. There’ll be workshops, signature products and best of all, the chance to let your taste buds be given different types to test run.
Dec 24-30. Daily from 2pm-9pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
51. Let the little ones eat up Emirati art
Al Seef is an absolute haven for local creative talent, and during DSF you can expose your brood to some of the finest on offer. Just don’t let them get their sticky, candy floss-laden fingers on the actual artwork.
Christmas Eve until Jan 23. Open Sun-Wed 4pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 2pm-midnight. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
52. Look up to the skies and enjoy a night of whizzes and bangs
Few things say ‘let’s celebrate’ better than a fireworks display. This Christmas, the DSF pyrotechnics promise to be something else.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, 8.30pm. DSF Market at Al Seef, mydsf.ae
53. Smell great, feel even better
French fashion house Hermès now has its master perfumers at work in Al Barsha. Splash out for the other half and you’ll be coming up smelling of roses (other scents are available).
Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Ground Floor, Mall of the Emirates, hermes.com
54. Take afternoon tea at our home of the gee-gees
The Meydan Hotel is serving up a special festive version of its much-loved post-meridian posh nosh. Under-fives eat for free. Lucky them.
Dhs129 (under-fives eat free, six-12s are half price). The Meydan Hotel, themeydanhotel.com
55. Make-up for lost time with Charlotte Tilbury
Forget 2020. Next year will surely give us the excuse to go out with our party faces on. So let this British maquillage magician put a sumptuous smile on them.
Open daily 11am-midnight. City Cente Mirdif, charlottetilbury.com
56. See why it’s all about Me, Me, Me in DIFC
Chinese cuisine in this city rarely comes finer that at Shanghai Me. The dim sum, prawn toast and soft-shell crab here will be the perfect accompaniments to those DSF bargains.
Open daily noon-midnight (terrace open daily noon-2am). Gate Village 11, DIFC, shanghaime-restaurant.com
57. Meet Santa as he admires the Aquarium
With his sleigh parked up downstairs, Father Christmas will be enjoying the life aquatic in a winter wonderland full of festive décor, and join you in the photo booth for those Santa selfies.
Until Boxing Day. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall, thedubaiaquarium.com
58. Waddle with the penguins after meandering the mall
Get your hands on some DSF discounts at The Dubai Mall and follow it with the chance to meet its aquarium’s gang of 16 gentoo penguins.
Prices vary. Penguin Encounter: Daily at 2pm, 3pm, 4pm and 5pm. The Dubai Mall, thedubaiaquarium.com
59. Feel the electricity and burn some rubber
Zoom over to EKart Zabeel’s new home on The Dubai Mall rooftop and give these bad boys a whirl as you race past the Burj Khalifa.
From Dhs95. Open Sun-Wed 3pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 2pm-midnight. The Dubai Mall, ekartzabeel.ae
60. Bowl down the boulevard of cracking cuisine
Powered by the DSF Lights, this thoroughfare at City Walk is even more thoroughly resplendent during the festival, giving you a dazzling array of eateries in which to enjoy that post-shop supper.
Open Sun-Wed 8am-midnight, Thu-Sat 8am-1am. City Walk Boulevard, Al Safa, citywalk.ae
61. Go walking in a Winter Wonderland at Mall of the Emirates
Ski Dubai and Ripe Market have come together to bring you a festive fun-zone with a virtual Santa, kids’ workshops and many other activities besides.
Until Christmas Eve. Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, malloftheemirates.com/events/winter-wonderland
62. Lean towards Leen’s at Bluewaters
A ‘casual to gourmet’ restaurant serving fine food in a vibrant venue? We’re all for it, as are our flip-flop-clad family taking advantage of the loving lack of a dress code.
Open Sat-Wed 8am-11pm, Thu-Fri 8am-midnight. Bluewaters Dubai, leens.com
63. Sample some ‘wheely’ fine fare
At the foot of Ain Dubai comes a cheeky upstart, The Selfish Bull, with its claws and hooves firmly in the surf ’n’ turf camp. We’d never let a little bullishness come between us and a marvellous meal, though.
Open Sat-Wed noon-midnight, Thu-Fri noon-1am. Bluewaters Dubai, theselfishbull.com
64. Be up for the Karak in Downtown Dubai
Bringing together some of the city’s finest tea and parathas, this homegrown house takes a modern twist on the traditional and runs all the way Downtown with it.
Open Sun-Thu 9am-midnight, Fri-Sat 8am-midnight, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, facebook.com/karakhouse/
65. Toast Maradona, but don’t hand out a wad
Argentina Grill is giving generously this Yuletide by bringing you a set menu brunch perfect for sharing, with your fill of churros to finish off this fine three-hour fiesta.
Dhs499 (house beverages), or Dhs299 (soft drinks). Dec 24-26 (any three-hour slot from 2pm-9pm). Palm Jumeirah, argentinagrill.rest/news/christmas-festive-offer/
66. Taste why Lyon roars ‘haute cuisine’
With two Michelin stars under his chef’s hat, Mathieu Viannay now brings you a French fine-dining experience with a twist of the Middle East at Rue Royale.
Open Sat-Wed 10am-10.30pm, Thu-Fri 10am-11.30pm. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, rueroyalerestaurant.com
67. Scream ‘Viva Mexico’ at Meshico
Especially as this vibrant venue is providing a fiesta with live music and a festive menu plentiful of Mexican Christmas favourites. The vistas are amazing, too.
Open Sun-Wed 3pm-1am, Thu-Sat noon-2am. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, meshico.ae
68. Catch some fish by the fountains
Samakjé roughly translates as ‘fish expert’ in Arabic and you’ll be instantly hooked by the delights of its catch of the day, cooked to perfection, or its inventive dishes such as the lobster kibbeh.
Open daily noon-midnight. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, samakje.com
69. Go mighty meaty at The Pointe
Make the Chicago Meatpackers your new favourite American Food-full team, with its superb steaks and homemade desserts that live up to the ethos of ‘simple done right’.
Open Sun-Wed noon-midnight, Thu noon-1am, Fri-Sat 11am-1am. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, meatpackers.ae
70. Travel from here to Infiniti with this Mega Raffle
Spend Dhs200 at selected locations and ENOC stations to have a chance to win a brand-new Infiniti QX60, plus Dhs200,000 or half a million in the final DFS draw.
Until Jan 30. Daily draws at Global Village, infiniti.com
71. Strike gold with DGJC
Treat your other half to some fancy jewellery worth at least Dhs500 and you could win 0.25kg of gold thanks to the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group, or 3kg of the stuff in its festival-ending mega draw.
Until January 30. Across the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group, dubaicityofgold.ae
72. Take your ticket to ride with the Dubai Pass
Available for three, five and even 14 days, this is your golden ticket with which to truly explore all of the city’s top attractions, including LEGOLAND Dubai, Aventura Nature Adventure Park and Wild Wadi Waterpark.
Tickets from Dhs405. See visitdubai.com/en/sc7/deals-and-offers/dubai-pass for more.
73. Positively glow in these dark times with KIMORA
Lebanese designer Ranya Naja is bringing her boho-chic wares to Market OTB, with her handmade patches incorporating glow-in-the-dark thread sure to make you stand out in the crowd.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, kimora.me
74. Let a truly talented fashion designer bring you ‘Hope’
Trained in Italy’s fashion capital Milan, Emirati couturier Afra Al Abdulla has been backing our front-line workers by designer their Eid dresses for free. Show her some love in return by checking out her latest collection at Market OTB.
Open Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Until Jan 2. Etisalat Market OTB at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, instagram.com/afra.alabdulla/
75. Discover a new natural order at The Green Planet
Once your shopping is done at City Walk, head over to this indoor rainforest that sustains more than 3,000 plants and animals. And then buy a Christmas gift card for those who can’t join you.
Tickets from Dhs89 in advance. Open daily 10am-6pm. Junction of Al Wasl Road and Safa Road, thegreenplanetdubai.com
76. Learn to ski and win a spending spree
Head over to Ski Dubai and spend at least Dhs300 for your chance to slalom away with Dhs1million of SHARE points.
Dec 17-30. Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, sharerewards.com
77. Wish Modesh and Dana a very merry Christmas
Dubai’s cartoon mascot and his best buddy will be taking part in meet and greets with their throng of fans at Deira City Centre, City Walk and City Centre Mirdif this weekend.
Dec 24-26, throughout the day. Deira City Centre, City Walk and City Centre Mirdif, mysdf.ae
78. Have a merry munch in Meydan
With your turkey pre-prepped for the next day, there’s no excuse not to head to Farriers for the final furlong before the big day. The truly global buffet involves live music and some mince pies to perhaps take home for Santa.
From Dhs199. Christmas Eve, 7pm-10pm. The Meydan Hotel, themeydanhotel.com/festive
79. Or… be a winner at the festive finish line
Christmas Day at The Meydan Hotel offers some thoroughbred festivities, with a bountiful brunch backed by a talented singer and saxophonist, plus a visit from a certain North Pole VIP.
From Dhs375. Christmas Day, 1pm-4pm. The Meydan Hotel, themeydanhotel.com/festive
80. Find festive freshness at Ripe Market
Dubai’s favourite community food market is in full flow for the festive season, with great produce and amazing gift ideas in abundance.
Open Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 10am-7pm. Academy Park, Umm Suqeim, ripeme.com
81. Catch the carnival fever
Zabeel Park is awash with Christmas colour as its Winter Carnival takes centre stage. Expect plenty of amazing activities, food and shopping for all the family.
Ongoing. Open daily 4pm-10pm. Zabeel Park Gate 1 & 2, visitdubai.com
82. Witness the ultimate Harry Potter battle
Watch the Entity Allstars recreate the performance that got them into the final of Britain’s Got Talent. ‘Harry vs Draco’ is an energetic, rip-snorter of a show full of synchronised street dance at its flipping, tricking best.
Dec 24-26, 1pm, 3.30pm, 6pm and 9pm. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, malloftheemirates.com
83. Create some colourful memories at The Pointe
Watch dance troupe Rainbow Wings in all their vibrant splendour as they float like butterflies through this superb culinary and retail spot on The Palm.
Dec 24-26, 6.15pm, 6.45pm, 7.15pm, 7.45pm and 8pm. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, thepointe.ae
84. Voyage into another kingdom at Ibn Battuta Mall
The Mirror Kingdom show promises to dazzle shoppers with a reflective repertoire full of amazing costumes abound with LED lights. And mirrors, of course.
Dec 24-26, 7.15pm, 7.45pm, 8.15pm and 8:45pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, ibnbattutamall.com
85. Enjoy a joyous Noël thanks to Joël
Doff your culinary cap to one of France’s finest chefs by booking a table at Atelier de Joël Robuchon Dubaï. His record-breaking, Michelin-starred legacy lives on.
Open daily 11.30am-3.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight. Gate Village 11, DIFC, atelier-robuchon.ae
86. Make sure it’s a wrap
Love buying great gifts but hate wrapping them? Check out the Festive Village and Market at City Centre Deira for a Christmas cheat that will earn you Share points. Plus Santa will making an appearance, we hear.
Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. City Centre Deira, citycentredeira.com
87. Create some ripples of excitement
Learn how to make bath bombs or your very own Lush bubble bar with a workshop at this staple of ‘splish-splash time’.
Until Christmas Day. Open daily 10am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, mena.lush.com
88. Prove that sharing is caring at City Centre Mirdif
Put a smile on the faces of those who might be most thankful of it by donating a present or two in aid of the Dubai Centre for Special Needs at the Share it Forward stall. The helpful elves will also wrap them for you, as long as you spend Dhs50 at the mall, that is.
Until Christmas Day. Open daily 10am-midnight. Central Galleria, City Centre Mirdif, citycentremirdif.com
89. Social distance with Santa
Share some snaps with your Instagram followers of you meeting a virtual Father Christmas at Mall of the Emirates. The beard will be realistic, that’s for sure.
Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, malloftheemirates.com
90. Shop on the seafront, then dine delightfully
La Mer has an amazing array of retail outlets. Once your shopping spree is over, chow down at one of its remarkable restaurants including Amorina, Bareburger, Catch 22, Masti, Apron and Hammers or Sikka Café to name but a few.
Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. La Mer, Jumeirah 1, lamerdubai.ae
91. Embark on an electric, aquatic adventure
Watch the animated tales of Noor and Hayat, the best buddies who represent electricity and water. They can both teach us all a thing or two about green-thinking.
Dec 22, 6.30pm. DSF Market at Last Exit at Al Khawaneej Walk, alkhawaneejwalk.ae
92. Feel thoroughly festive at Fairmont The Palm
The Christmas Show promises a non-stop celebration of all things Yuletide, with classic festive hits, dynamic dance routines and even some comedy elves.
Tickets from Dhs120. Dec 20, 22 and 23, 3pm and 7pm, Christmas Eve 11am, 3pm and 7pm, Boxing Day, 3pm and 7pm, Palm Ballroom, Fairmont The Palm, fairmont.com/palm-dubai/
93. Go walking in the air with The Snowman
Who doesn’t love Raymond Brigg’s classic Christmas cartoon? See it brought to life on the big screen and watch as your heart melts at the end…
Tickets from Dhs45. Dec 22, 23, 24 and 26, 11am and 3pm (doors open 30 minutes before the show). The Theatre – Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, malloftheemirates.com
94. Witness brilliant ballet from France’s finest
Enjoy a one-off screening of L’Opéra National de Paris as it performs its annual Christmas spectacular.
Tickets from Dhs60. Dec 28, 8pm (doors open 30 minutes before the show). The Theatre – Mall of The Emirates, artforall.ae/fetez-la-danse/
95. Enjoy a French fairy tale on the QE2
Take the family along to see the timeless classic Beauty and the Beast brought to life in this world-famous ship’s very own theatre.
Tickets from Dhs108. Dec 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27 11am and 3pm. Theatre by QE2, theatrebyqe2.com
96. Cheer on Jack as he tackles the Beanstalk
Gather the gang for a bit of panto with a production of this tallest of tales. Don’t be a Silly Billy – book early.
Tickets from Dhs160. Dec 21 11am and 3pm; Dec 22 3pm and 7pm; Dec 23 11am and 3pm; Christmas Eve 11am and 3pm; Boxing Day 3pm and 7pm; Dec 27 11am and 3pm. Al Baraha Ballroom, InterContinental Dubai – Festival City, facebook.com/intercontinentaldubaifestivalcity/
97. See Santa swap his sleigh for a camel
Father Christmas has clearly earned those hilariously haughty hump-backs’ respect. So much so that they’ll let him ride them across Global Village laden with presents for all you who have been good this year. Naughty children, steer clear.
Dhs15 for park entry. Open Sat-Wed 4pm-midnight, Thu-Fri 4pm-1am. Global Village, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, globalvillage.ae
98. Go global in the village
Embrace the region’s first (and largest) multicultural festival park as it approaches its third decade of wonderment and share a snap or two under its 22-metre Christmas tree on Celebration Walk.
Open Sat-Wed 4pm-midnight, Thu-Fri 4pm-1am. Global Village, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, globalvillage.ae
99. Find your flow at City Walk
This hugely popular shopping destination will let you enter a world of pure imagination (Willy Wonka-style) with its fantastic fountain show.
Sun-Wed 6.30pm, 8pm, 9pm and 10pm, Thu-Sat 6.30pm, 8pm, 9pm, 10pm, 11pm and midnight. City Walk, citywalk.ae/en/whats-on/the-fountain-show
100. Don’t wait for pay day to devour some pide
Babaji on City Walk has so many tremendous Turkish dishes to devour. But we say go for that pizza-style flatbread during a pit-stop during your DSF bargain-hunting quest.
Open daily 10am-10pm. City Walk, instagram.com/babajidubai/
