Emirates is bringing festive cheer to passengers this holiday season, offering a range of Christmas-themed experiences in-flight and across its global lounges. The airline expects more than 2.3 million departures and 2.5 million arrivals over the coming weekends.
Festive dining onboard
From December 17 to 26, passengers in all classes will be served seasonal treats including hot chocolate, dark chocolate truffles, gingerbread cookies, and specialty desserts. First, Business, and Premium Economy Class menus feature festive starters like salmon gravadlax and smoked salmon with crab mayonnaise, followed by main courses including turkey with chestnut stuffing, herb-crusted lamb, duck confit, and seared venison. Economy Class travellers will enjoy roasted turkey roulade, maple-roasted parsnips, and traditional fruitcake.
The A380 Onboard Lounge will offer artisanal sweets such as mince pies, stollen, panettone, and festive sandwiches, alongside themed selfie props for passengers.
Holiday lounges worldwide
Between December 15 and 31, Emirates’ First and Business Class lounges in Dubai and around the world will feature festive menus with roasted turkey, glazed chestnuts, root vegetables, and seasonal desserts.
Lounges across Emirates’ global network—from Australia and China to the UK and the USA—will provide regionally inspired festive dishes.
Orthodox Christmas celebrations
From December 24 to January 8, Emirates will feature Orthodox Christmas menus on flights between Russia, Cyprus, Ethiopia, and Dubai. First and Business Class options include Olivier salad, lobster tail, duck confit, and festive desserts. Economy Class passengers will be served traditional Russian potato salad, barbecued chicken, creamy beef stroganoff, and seasonal sweets.
Entertainment and festive films
Passengers can access 39 holiday movies and 42 festive TV shows on Emirates’ award-winning ice inflight entertainment system, including Tinsel Town, Dear Santa, Last Christmas, and classics like Elf and The Polar Express. Holiday music playlists feature Sam Smith, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and more.
Gifts and shopping
EmiratesRED Winter 2025 catalogue offers over 300 products from brands such as Armani, Creed, Amouage, YSL, Kilian, and Van Cleef & Arpels. Pre-orders can be made up to 21 days before departure and delivered to seats inflight, with a 10% discount using the code RED10. The airline also offers festive merchandise including Christmas jumpers, family pyjamas, stockings, hats, and mugs.
Charity initiatives
Through the Emirates Airline Foundation, passengers can double their donations for children in need. The airline will match contributions up to $10,000 per donation, which can be made onboard or online via multiple payment options.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
