Dubai steps into the holiday season once again with the return of Winter City Dubai, transforming Expo City into a festive playground filled with lights, music, and family activities. Every year, this event becomes a December highlight, drawing residents looking for a cosy winter escape—without leaving the city.
This year’s edition adds more immersive storytelling, fresh workshops, and that much-anticipated snowfall under the Al Wasl Dome. For families living in Dubai, it has become a seasonal tradition, offering a mix of nostalgia and new experiences.
A Sparkling Winter Setup at Al Wasl Plaza
Al Wasl Plaza is already one of the city’s favourite landmarks, but December brings a different kind of charm. As Winter City Dubai opens, the iconic dome turns into a glowing winter landscape with festive lights, decorations, and a cheerful ambience that settles in as soon as the sun goes down.
One of the key highlights this year is the story of the Candy Cane Comet. This festive storyline runs through the evening shows, lighting features, and kids’ activities. It brings a sense of continuity to the event, making the experience feel more engaging for families who spend the evening wandering around the plaza.
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A Magical Tree Lighting Moment Every Evening
The evening tree-lighting ceremony remains one of the most heartwarming moments at Winter City Dubai. Each night, a child from the audience is chosen to light the massive Christmas tree at Al Wasl Plaza. It’s a simple gesture, but one that families remember long after the event.
Parents come early to secure a good spot, while kids wait eagerly for their chance to be part of the ceremony. It’s one of those small Dubai moments that turn into bigger memories for families celebrating the festive season in the city.
Workshops, Markets, and Live Shows Spread Across the Plaza
Winter City Dubai spreads its activities across different corners of Expo City, offering something for visitors of all ages.
Interactive Workshops for Kids
Craft stations and themed workshops give children a chance to create ornaments, small gifts, and festive keepsakes. These sessions tend to fill up quickly on weekends, giving kids a chance to enjoy something hands-on rather than simply watching the performances.
Popular Christmas Market Returns
The festive market continues to be a crowd favourite. From seasonal treats to handcrafted items, it’s the kind of place where residents grab warm snacks, browse through homegrown brands, or shop for last-minute Christmas gifts. The market feels cosy and approachable, making it easy for families to stroll around without rushing.
Daily Live Entertainment
Shows run throughout the evening, adding energy and movement around the plaza. The mix of music, lights, and performances creates a lively atmosphere, especially as more people gather toward the evening hours. The entire setup feels festive without being overwhelming, which is what makes Winter City Dubai accessible for all types of visitors.
Snowfall Every Saturday: The Highlight of Winter City Dubai
For many residents, the snowfall experience is the number one reason to visit. Every Saturday evening, the Al Wasl Dome transforms into a winter scene as artificial snow begins to fall gently across the plaza.
Families gather near the dome to experience the moment, often capturing videos and photos to share. For many children living in the UAE, it becomes their first “snowfall” moment—something Dubai families now look forward to each December.
The snowfall creates a calm, almost cinematic effect when paired with the evening lights. It adds a perfect finishing touch to the festive experience.
Timings, Tickets, and Everything You Need to Know
Winter City Dubai runs throughout December, making it easy to plan a visit. Here are the essential details:
Location: Expo City Dubai
Dates: Saturday, December 6 to Wednesday, December 31
Timings: 4 pm to 10 pm
Tickets:
- General admission: AED 50
- Children ages 3 and under: Free
The event remains family-friendly, accessible, and easy to navigate. Whether someone wants a quick evening stroll or a full night exploring every corner, Winter City Dubai offers flexibility without compromising on the festive experience.
Winter City Dubai Stands Out in the December Calendar
Over time, Winter City Dubai has grown from a seasonal pop-up to a December tradition for many households. It fits naturally into Dubai’s holiday season, offering an open, lively space where families can relax, celebrate, and enjoy the cooler evenings.
For those who live here, it brings a sense of community—something that becomes stronger each year as the event expands. With Expo City continuing to position itself as a cultural hub, Winter City Dubai remains one of its most anticipated festive offerings.
Read More:
- Al Dhaid Honey Festival Returns: A Sweet Weekend for Sharjah’s Local Honey Lovers – Social Kandura
- Expo City Dubai unveils Expo Valley Views – a new green-living apartment community surrounded by nature – Social Kandura
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