10 Things Expats in Dubai Experience During the Christmas Holidays

From covering doors and windows with fake snow to blinding the neighbors with Christmas lights, the lack of winter and snow outside will be compensated with extra holiday cheer inside the house. This does make for a really festive atmosphere for inviting guests or friends over for the holidays!

Nothing says the Christmas holidays like the perfect cup of hot cocoa… even if you end up overheating while drinking it because of the desert heat of Dubai. Most expats who celebrate Christmas in Dubai would rather sweat it out a little than give up enjoying cocoa in the evenings (although most of us have given up the idea of trying to cozy up next to the fireplace).

While some cities around the world get a little too crazy with the Christmas decorations, the city of Dubai doesn’t have that many around the city. That being said however, there are truly beautiful Christmas tree decorations in the malls and in hotels that are an exciting surprise that everyone can truly appreciate.

You either love them or you hate them — but almost all of us in Dubai have blasted out Christmas songs in the car on the way to work to get in the holiday spirit. Turning up the AC to feel a little “winter” chill while you listen to the music is also something we’ve all probably secretly done.

Because most of us can’t keep pretending we’re in a winter fantasy-land, most expats will eventually head to Dubai’s beautiful beaches during the Christmas holidays, and truly enjoy it! Basking in the hot sun while cooling off in the clear waters of the sea; this is something truly unique and special for the holiday season.

For those stuck in dreary cold cities for winter, seeing others enjoying Christmas in a tropical heaven can seem like they are on the perfect vacation. Homesickness feels a little bit better when most of our friends back home are jealous of our sunny pictures on the beach in December.

Dubai really is a shopping dream — the biggest mall in the world is in downtown Dubai and is a perfect location for Christmas shopping. From every single brand-name shop to unique boutique stores, from delicious international chocolatiers to local sweets and dates; you’ll have a hard time choosing what to get for Christmas gifts!

Although the UAE is an Islamic country Dubai does have numerous churches for almost every single Christian denomination. From Russian Orthodox Churches to the international Baptist Church, from a glorious Catholic Church in downtown Dubai to the gospel singing Winners Chapel; there is a place of worship for everyone to celebrate Christmas.

For those who expect absolutely no Christmas fun after moving to the Arabian Peninsula, most are pleasantly surprised at all the Christmas fun one can actually have in Dubai. From visiting the Dubai Opera for holiday orchestras to playing in the snow at Ski Dubai, there is indeed plenty to do for those who want to have a festive holiday.

With so many expats from all over the world living in one place, it is exciting to learn about the diverse array of different Christmas traditions and Christian denominations. With some Christians even celebrating Christmas in January, you’ll be able to attend different churches, services, and celebrations and enjoy an even longer Christmas season!