Dubai Winter City 2026 will bring Disney-inspired themed zones to Expo City Dubai for its fifth edition. Running at Al Wasl Plaza from December 11 to 31, the family-friendly event will feature experiences inspired by Frozen, Toy Story, Home Alone and Marvel, alongside festive entertainment and Santa meet-and-greets. General admission starts at AED 60, making it an option for UAE residents planning Christmas activities with family and friends.
- Location: Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai
- Organiser: Expo City Dubai, in collaboration with Disney+
- Dates: December 11–31, 2026
- Who can visit: Families, children and Disney fans
- Ticket prices: From AED 60 for general admission
- What’s next: More details about the seasonal programme are expected closer to the event
Dubai Winter City 2026 will feature special zones inspired by popular Disney films and Marvel characters when the festive event returns to Expo City Dubai from December 11 to 31. Expo City Dubai and Disney+ are joining forces for the fifth edition, bringing stories from Frozen, Toy Story, Home Alone and Marvel into the Christmas celebrations at Al Wasl Plaza.
Under the theme “Once upon a holiday…”, the event will combine these themed experiences with familiar Winter City attractions, including snowfall beneath the dome, festive markets, family workshops and visits with Santa Claus. According to Expo City Dubai, tickets start at AED 60 for general admission, with additional options for visitors seeking express entry or a guaranteed Santa meet-and-greet.
For Dubai residents looking for Christmas events in 2026, Winter City offers a family-friendly way to enjoy the festive season without leaving the city.
What Disney experiences are coming to Dubai Winter City?
The Disney+ collaboration is the main attraction of Winter City 2026. Visitors can expect themed zones inspired by some of the world’s best-known film franchises.
These include Disney’s Frozen, Pixar’s Toy Story, 20th Century Studios’ Home Alone and Marvel Studios. The organisers aim to bring these stories into the festive setting through themed experiences at Expo City Dubai.
The announced line-up gives families and younger visitors a chance to enjoy familiar characters and stories as part of a Christmas outing. Marvel fans and Disney princess enthusiasts can also look forward to appearances within the immersive Al Wasl Dome experience.
However, visitors should check for further announcements before planning around specific characters or activities. The full programme and individual experience timings have not all been confirmed.
Expo City Dubai’s Executive Creative Director for Events and Experiences, Amna Abulhoul, said the collaboration would add a new chapter to Winter City while retaining the activities families already enjoy.
When is Winter City 2026, and what are the opening hours?
Winter City will run from December 11 to 31, 2026, at Al Wasl Plaza in Expo City Dubai. The event is scheduled to open daily from 4pm to 10pm.
The timing makes it suitable for an evening visit, particularly for families who want to explore the festive attractions after school or work. Visitors can plan to spend time at the Christmas market, take part in family activities and enjoy the atmosphere beneath the dome.
Al Wasl Plaza is one of Expo City Dubai’s main gathering spaces. Its large dome and projection capabilities provide the setting for seasonal displays and immersive experiences.
Winter City is also part of Expo City’s wider programme of seasonal events, which brings cultural activities, entertainment and community experiences to the destination throughout the year.
How much do Winter City 2026 tickets cost?
General admission starts at AED 60, while visitors can choose additional ticket options depending on the experience they want.
| Ticket type | Price |
|---|---|
| General admission | AED 60 |
| Guaranteed Santa Meet & Greet add-on | AED 75 |
| Winter City Express Entry Pass | AED 175 |
| Children aged three and under | Free |
| People of Determination and one caregiver | Free |
The AED 75 Santa Meet & Greet add-on is available only with the Express Gate Pass, according to the event’s published ticket information. Visitors should review the conditions before booking to ensure they select the correct option.
General admission is the starting point for visitors who want to explore the main event, including the festive market and themed zones. Those looking for a guaranteed Santa meeting or faster entry will need to consider the relevant upgrade.
Booking ahead is worth considering for families planning a visit during the busy Christmas period. Ticket availability, terms and any additional booking conditions should be checked through Expo City Dubai’s official ticketing platform.
What else can families do at Winter City?
The Disney-themed zones are only part of the programme. Winter City will also bring back several of its traditional festive attractions.
- Snowfall beneath the dome: Visitors can enjoy the seasonal snowfall experience beneath Al Wasl Dome.
- Christmas market: The market will offer festive stalls and seasonal shopping opportunities.
- Santa and Mrs Claus: Children can meet the festive favourites, with a guaranteed meet-and-greet option available through the specified ticket upgrade.
- Letters to Santa: Younger visitors can take part in the traditional activity of writing and sending letters to Santa.
- Family workshops: Hands-on activities will give children and parents another way to spend time together.
- Festive food and drinks: Seasonal food and beverage options will be available throughout the event.
- Holiday entertainment: The wider programme includes festive music and other seasonal experiences.
Expo City Dubai has also highlighted outdoor holiday film screenings, a Christmas tree lighting and Mrs Claus’ Bakery as part of its festive offering.
The mix of activities means families can combine the Disney-inspired attractions with more traditional Christmas experiences. Visitors should look out for further programme announcements for details of specific screenings, workshops and performance schedules.
Winter City adds another family-focused event to Dubai’s busy winter calendar, when residents and visitors can make the most of the cooler weather and outdoor entertainment.
The Disney+ partnership also introduces a new theme to an established seasonal attraction. Families who have attended previous editions can look forward to a different experience, while the festive market, snowfall and Santa activities remain familiar draws.
For Expo City Dubai, events such as Winter City help bring visitors to the destination through the festive season. The programme also creates opportunities for food, retail and entertainment activities within the venue.
For UAE residents, the practical appeal is the choice of ticket options, evening opening hours and attractions suited to different ages. Families can plan a shorter visit around selected activities or spend more time exploring the festive setting.
Winter City 2026 will run until December 31, giving visitors several weeks to plan a trip during the holiday season. More details about the programme are expected as the opening date approaches.
FAQs about Dubai Winter City 2026
1. When does Dubai Winter City 2026 start?
Winter City will run from December 11 to 31, 2026, at Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai. Opening hours are scheduled from 4pm to 10pm.
2. Which Disney films will feature at Winter City?
The announced themed zones will draw inspiration from Frozen, Toy Story, Home Alone and Marvel. Further details about individual experiences may be announced closer to the event.
3. How much are Winter City tickets?
General admission starts at AED 60. The Express Entry Pass costs AED 175, while the guaranteed Santa Meet & Greet add-on costs AED 75 and is available only with the Express Gate Pass.
4. Is Winter City suitable for young children?
Yes. The event includes family workshops, snowfall, festive markets and activities involving Santa and Mrs Claus. Children aged three and under can enter free of charge.
5. Where can visitors book Winter City tickets?
Tickets are available through Expo City Dubai’s official event booking platform. Visitors should check the latest ticket options and conditions before booking.
Plan a festive visit to Expo City Dubai
Dubai Winter City 2026 will combine Disney-inspired experiences with Christmas markets, snowfall and family entertainment at Al Wasl Plaza. With tickets starting at AED 60 and the event running until December 31, it is one to consider when planning festive activities in Dubai this winter.
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