Get ready to experience the ultimate holiday season as Dubai Calendar, the city’s official event listings platform, has unveiled an unmissable line-up of events for December 2024.
From dazzling holiday-themed attractions and fun-filled family activities to electrifying live performances by top international stars, there’s something to ignite everyone’s festive spirit.
Visitors and residents alike can look forward to thrilling sports events, immersive art displays, and festivities across the city including celebrations marking the 30th anniversary edition of Dubai Shopping Festival.
Dubai Calendar December 2024
Don’t miss out – mark your calendars and prepare for a December packed with unforgettable entertainment, culture, and celebration!
Sport
Dubai Basketball vs Mornar-Barsko zlato
- Date: 15 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: The city’s first international sports franchise Dubai Basketball will take on Mornar-Barsko zlato. Founded in 2024, Dubai Basketball is setting its sights on becoming a leader in the game at one of Europe’s top competitions. The team’s breakthrough came during the 2016/17 season, where they reached the finals of the Montenegrin National Championship, along with the Balkan League.
Dubai Racing Carnival: Festive Friday
- Date: 20 December
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
About: The 2024-2025 Dubai Racing Carnival is underway at Meydan Racecourse as the world’s best jockeys and horses countdown to next year’s Dubai World Cup. During December, the carnival will host three Friday evening race meetings, including ‘Festive Friday’, which promises a thrilling line-up of world-class racing, live entertainment, and exquisite dining.
Community
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
- Date: 6 to 8 December
- Location: Madinat Jumeirah, Fort Island
About: The Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market is a must-visit holiday destination in Dubai. This festive bazaar features a 36ft-tall tree, seasonal food stalls, and family-friendly activities, set in a lively 1,750sqm venue with live music. Enjoy shopping at pop-up stalls, a Santa boat ride, a Venetian carousel, and a gingerbread house, all while taking in the festive atmosphere. Entry is free!
Dubai Shopping Festival
- Date: 6 December to 12 January
- Location: Citywide
About: The annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is the best time to be in the city. Held every year during the winter months, DSF sees malls and shopping destinations come alive with amazing discounts on just about everything, along with daily entertainment, shows and extraordinary raffles. DSF is about so much more than just retail. Catch concerts by global and regional superstars – previous editions saw the likes of Mohamed Hamaki and Ahmed Saad entertain crowds across the city. You can also see impressive fashion shows, and explore pop-ups and outdoor markets.In addition to the colourful fireworks displays and family experiences will make this a fun-filled time for the whole family.
DSF Nights at Dubai Festival City Mall
- Date: 6 December to 12 January
- Location: Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall
About: Get ready for 38 nights of electrifying entertainment at Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall. The ultimate destination to celebrate Dubai Shopping Festival’s 30th anniversary, watch electrifying concerts from big name Arab artists and live X Factor shows and catch enchanting displays of colours and lights every weekend with the DSF Fireworks shows.
DSF Fireworks Nights
- Date: 6 December to 12 January
- Location: Dubai Festival City Mall and Hatta
About: As the whole city comes alive for the 30th anniversary of Dubai Shopping Festival, the skies above Dubai Festival City Mall will light up with vibrant fireworks displays starting at 9pm. For a more tranquil experience, leave the city behind during the weekend and head for the picturesque mountains of Hatta. Create wonder-filled memories with all your friends and family with the must-visit location hosting DSF Fireworks Nights every Friday and Saturday until 4 January 2025 starting at 8pm.
Dubai Lights
- Date: 6 December to 12 January
- Location: Al Seef, Al Marmoom, Bluewaters and Dubai Design District (d3)
About: Head to five must-visit destinations across the city to check out incredible light art installations. Dubai Lights, returning for a fourth season to the Dubai Shopping Festival, will give visitors, residents and art enthusiasts an opportunity to interact with incredible lighting installations, perfect for an outdoor photo opportunity.
Canteen X
- Date: 13 December to 31 December
- Location: Mushrif Park Gate 1
About: The highly-anticipated second edition of the culinary showcase is set to bring Dubai’s burgeoning food scene back to Mushrif Park, Gate 1, during the Dubai Shopping Festival’s 30th anniversary celebrations. Dive into a tantalising array of delicious dishes, immerse yourself in captivating entertainment and take part in interactive experiences whilst enjoying Dubai’s amazing winter weather. This year’s edition will feature a thrilling new look, with four distinct zones each taking you in on a memorable gastronomic expedition.
Hatta X DSF
- Date: 6 December to 5 January
- Location: Hatta Wadi Hub
About: Leave the city behind and head for the picturesque mountains of Hatta for the ultimate day out for Dubai Shopping Festival’s 30th anniversary. The rugged exclave is the perfect escape for thrill-seekers thanks to Hatta Wadi Hub, an activity centre with something to suit every adventurer, both big and small. Immerse yourself in a whimsical wonderland and get your thrills amidst nature with amazing fireworks shows every weekend.
DSF Drones Show presented by Emarat
- Date: 6 December to 12 January
- Location: Bluewaters and The Beach JBR
About: An unmissable highlight of the season, the enchanting DSF Drones Show presented by Emarat Petroleum returns to Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). Watch it live every night from Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR. With 1000 drones taking over the night skies, expect awe-inspiring performances from two brand new shows transforming featuring all-new composition and music. Shows will take place at 8pm and 10pm daily.
The Uncommon X DSF
- Date: 20 December to 12 January
- Location: Al Marmoom
About: Make your way to the desert in Al Marmoom to experience the pop-up dining experience that quickly became a viral sensation. The Uncommon offers visitors the chance to create unforgettable moments with a stunning setup of mirrors and lights transforming the desert as the sun sets. Families can enjoy engaging activities like guided stargazing and games for all ages, all while relaxing in cosy lounge areas that highlight the breathtaking scenery. A culinary delight awaits with a menu featuring vibrant platters of fresh fruits, savoury grilled meats and delicious vegetarian options.
Lifestyle
Sole DXB 2024
- Date: 13 to 15 December
- Location: Dubai Design District
About: Sole DXB, the region’s top lifestyle and street-culture festival, returns at Dubai Design District. Expect live performances, DJ sets, sports tournaments, talks, and workshops, plus a ‘Hip Hop 50’ celebration featuring artists like Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, and DJ Shadow. A must-attend event for music, fashion, and culture lovers.
Live Entertaiment
321 Festival
- Date: 6 to 8 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena and City Walk
About: The 321 Festival returns with an unforgettable weekend of live concerts as part of Dubai Shopping Festival’s opening celebrations. Two spectacular evenings at Coca-Cola Arena on 6 and 8 December will feature must-see artists and nonstop entertainment. Plus, City Walk joins the 321 celebrations for the first time ever from 6 to 8 December with free-to-attend family entertainment and unbeatable dining offers.
Georges Wassouf and Kadim Al Sahir live
- Date: 6 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Get ready for an unforgettable night of Arabic music as Georges Wassouf and Kadim Al Sahir take the stage at Coca-Cola Arena. Wassouf, the ‘Sultan of Tarab’, will perform timeless classics, while the ‘Caesar of Arabic Music’, Al Sahir, will serenade the crowd with his romantic hits. Don’t miss this legendary concert as part of Dubai Shopping Festival and the 321 Festival.
Da-Bangg Reloaded with Salman Khan
- Date: 7 December
- Location: Dubai Harbour Experience
About: Experience Bollywood’s cinematic brilliance at Dubai Harbour with Da-Bangg Reloaded, featuring Salman Khan and a star-studded line-up including Tamannaah Bhatia, Jacqueline Fernandez, Disha Patani, Sonakshi Sinha, Prabhu Deva, and Sunil Grover. Enjoy vibrant performances and dynamic routines in this four-hour live show. Doors open at 6pm.
Coke Studio Live
- Date: 8 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Join the magic of Coke Studio Live at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, the grand finale of Dubai Shopping Festival’s 321 Festival. Enjoy performances by South Asia’s top artists, including Kaifi Khalil, Abdul Hannan, Umair Butt, Gharvi Group, and many more, with hits like Kana Yaari, O Yaara, Blockbuster, amongst several others. It’s an unforgettable night of music curated by Zulfiqar (Xulfi) Khan.
Eraserheads live
- Date: 8 December
- Location: Expo City Dubai
About: Bid farewell to the legendary Filipino band Eraserheads as they bring their Huling El Bimbo World Tour to Expo City Dubai for one final night of nostalgia. Celebrating their legacy, the concert will feature iconic hits like Huling El Bimbo, Ang Huling El Bimbo, and With a Smile. Don’t miss this historic event marking the end of an era in Filipino rock music.
Cinema Medley
- Date: 8 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Join the Imperial Orchestra for Cinema Medley 2 at Coca-Cola Arena, featuring live renditions of iconic soundtracks from Oppenheimer, Stranger Things, The Mandalorian, The Avengers, and more. Conducted by Lev Dunaev, 80 musicians will bring legendary scores to life in a symphonic celebration of cinema.
Thirty Seconds to Mars live
- Date: 12 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Rock fans, don’t miss Thirty Seconds to Mars live at Coca-Cola Arena. Jared and Shannon Leto will perform hits like The Kill, Kings and Queens, and new tracks from their latest album It’s The End Of The World But It’s A Beautiful Day.
Luffy Lutfi | Emirati-Manga
- Date: 12 December
- Location: AlSerkal Avenue
- About: Don’t miss the Luffy Lutfi | Emirati-Manga exhibition at Alserkal Avenue. Experience a unique fusion of Japanese manga and Emirati culture through the eyes of artist Abdulla Lutfi, who blends anime influences with vibrant Emirati heritage. With bold, black-and-white illustrations that offer a fresh perspective on Emirati life, this free exhibition is a must-see for art and manga fans alike.
Sherine Abdel Wahab live
- Date: 13 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Dubai music fans are in for a treat as Sherine Abdel Wahab performs live at Coca-Cola Arena. With 20 years of hits like Ala Eidak and Mesh Ad El Hawa, she’ll showcase her soulful vocals and captivating stage presence. Don’t miss this unforgettable night.
Ricky Martin live
- Date: 14 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Catch Latin pop sensation Ricky Martin live at Coca-Cola Arena as he brings his world tour to Dubai for Dubai Shopping Festival. Enjoy a high-energy performance featuring hits like Livin’ La Vida Loca, Maria, and Vente Pa’ Ca, along with new tracks from his latest album.
Sounds Like Christmas
- Date: 15 December
- Location: Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
About: Celebrate the festive season with Lebanese-French pop star Anthony Touma at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. Enjoy festive classics and surprise guest performances in an evening full of holiday cheer.
Winter District
- Date: 14 to 22 December
- Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
About: Get ready to hop on your sleigh and head to the North Pole for a magical experience with family and friends. This year’s edition promises tons of holiday cheer, dazzling lights and Santa-approved fun for everyone. Explore a bustling Christmas market brimming with handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats, as well as family-friendly attractions including a snow play area for the little ones.
The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera
- Date: 19 to 22 December
- Location: Dubai Opera
About: Experience the magic of The Nutcracker at Dubai Opera, as Astana Opera ballet and orchestra bring this festive classic to life. With stunning choreography and beautiful costumes, follow Clara’s enchanting journey with her Nutcracker and the battle against the Rat King.
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
- Date: 20 to 24 December
- Location: Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
About: Step into the enchanting world of Whoville as Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical takes the stage at Zabeel Theatre. Watch the Grinch’s heartwarming transformation through festive music, vibrant visuals, and timeless songs. Perfect for families and fans of all ages – join the Grinch as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas.
CoComelon Live: Sing-A-Long
- Date: 20 to 21 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Join the fun at Coca-Cola Arena for CoComelon Live: Sing-A-Long! Sing and dance to beloved tunes like Wheels on the Bus and Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes with JJ and friends. A perfect interactive family experience filled with music and life lessons.
Marcelito Pomoy Live
- Date: 22 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
About: Join Marcelito Pomoy at Coca-Cola Arena for an unforgettable night of music, including his hit The Prayer and the debut of his new Christmas song. Special guest JODOKCELLO will perform alongside him.
Hany Shaker live
- Date: 26 December
- Location: Dubai Opera
- About: Join Egyptian music legend Hany Shaker at Dubai Opera for a night of timeless Arabic hits. Known as the ‘Prince of Arabic Music’, Shaker will perform classics like Keda Bardo Ya Qamar and Sadaqeeni. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening.
The Kingdom Choir live
- Date: 28 December
- Location: Dubai Opera
- About: Celebrate 30 years of music with The Kingdom Choir at Dubai Opera. Led by Karen Gibson, the choir gained worldwide fame with their Stand By Me performance at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Expect a powerful evening filled with inspiring songs, including their hit Not Giving Up.
The Asha Bhosle and Sonu Nigam Legacy Concert
- Date: 29 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Don’t miss Bollywood legends Asha Bhosle and Sonu Nigam live at Coca-Cola Arena. Enjoy timeless hits like Dum Maro Dum and Kal Ho Naa Ho, with a special performance by Zanai Bhosle. Book your tickets for an unforgettable night of Bollywood music.
Najwa Karam live
- Date: 29 December
- Location: Dubai Opera
- About: Catch Arabic music icon Najwa Karam live at Dubai Opera. Known as ‘The Sun of Arabic Song’, Karam will perform timeless hits like El Layli Laylitna and Beirut.
DJ Snake Live
- Date: 30 December
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Dance away to epic drops and high-energy beats, as DJ Snake lights up Coca-Cola Arena on 30 December. Known for smash hits including Turn Down for What, Taki Taki and Middle, the artist is a trailblazer in the electronic music world, blending hip-hop, trap and dancehall into an unstoppable sounds that’s captivated fans worldwide.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
