6 Best Things to Do for Christmas in Abu Dhabi

Considering a holiday in the UAE over Christmas? The following are six must-see things to do during Christmas in Abu Dhabi, combining festive holiday fun with Emirati sophistication—perfect additions to our DubaiNewYearEve blog.

Things to do During Christmas in Abu Dhabi

1. Take a Walk through the Corniche at Sunset

Something is magical about the twilight on the Corniche. Keep yourself warm (evenings are chilly), get yourself a coffee or a hot-chocolate and go on a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. Capture the skyline and the sea on your side and it is a serene and beautiful beginning of your holiday season. Good for couples or families seeking a carefree Christmas in Abu Dhabi outing.

2. Visit Christmas Markets and Light Shows

Abu Dhabi glitters at the time of festivities. Hotels and malls make their lobbies very bright with flashy lights, Christmas trees and other seasonal decorations. Visit such locations as waterfront at Yas Marina to see light shows or hotel pop-ups with stalls, treats and live music. It is the ideal way to enjoy the Christmas in Abu Dhabi celebrations in a vibrant urban setting..

3. Go to the Theme Parks in Yas Island

Yas Island can bring something other than fun to families. It has attractions, rides as well as entertainment that are kid-friendly and the entire clan can spend their day out in the park. You will find a visit here a thrill and a variety to your itinerary in Christmas–a perfect one after your walks and light-wanderings.

4. Reserve a Luxury Dinner Cruise – Rose Royale Style

Enhance your Christmas evening by spending it on the NYE Rose Royale Cruise of Abu Dhabi by DubaiNewYearEve. The 165 ft Mega yacht Cruise will leave Yas Marina and will include an international buffet dinner, live DJ music, and unlimited drinks, all to look out at the glittering skyline and wait till midnight fireworks. It is a unique experience to celebrate the holiday in a special fashion and have an uplifted party with the people you love.

5. Party On the Orchid Floating Hotel Yacht

To have a more upscale alternative, consider the NYE Orchid Floating Hotel Abu Dhabi. The cruise also sets off at the Yas Marina and provides an international buffet, open-bar drinks and a view of the most popular landmarks of Etihad arena and Samaliyah Island. It is a casual-luxury choice for those celebrating Christmas in Abu Dhabi without compromising on comfort or style.

6. A Picnic on a Quiet Beach and a View of the Fireworks

Spend the night of your Christmas on the beach of one of the Abu Dhabi beaches–perhaps at the Yas Beach or Al Seef Waterfront. Prepare blankets, carry along some snacks that are seasonal, and get a place where you will wait to see the fireworks in the city. Most of the cruise packages emphasize on watching areas of fireworks and getting in early is a way of guaranteeing that you get a good position.

7. Fast tips to make your Christmas hassle free

• Make reservations: Tours and cruises during the festivals are booked beforehand and you will have to book your place at Rose Royale or Orchid Floating Hotel in advance.
• Dress smart-casual: Modest yet fashionable outfits are best especially in the case of cruise dinners.
• Early arrival: Boardings usually begin before 8 pm and sail off at 9:30pm–allow a lot of buffer time.
• Select your weather: It can be windy at night- carry a light jacket to go out or even attend beach picnics.
• Transport: The traffic may be increased around the time of the holiday, add some extra time to drive to or out of Yas Marina or any event location.

Last Words

The combination of easy strolls, celebratory markets, exciting theme-park fun, the two luxurious cruise options, one with a premium buffet and a vibe (Orchid Floating Hotel) and the other one with a high-energy party flair (Rose Royale) will provide our readers with six ways to experience Christmas in Abu Dhabi. They all have a different taste, so there is one that suits couples, families, and groups!