UAE December guide
Photo: @ameliawaney Instagram

‘Tis the season in the UAE and, of course, there’s plenty of things to do.

From soaking up all the festive season has to offer to new fashion experiences to can’t-miss festivals, there’s a myriad of activities to add to your calendar for the month of December.

As always, GRAZIA brings you the best on what to do this winter.

Cartier brings Christmas to Dubai

Cartier has brought the true spirit of Christmas to Dubai with its “A Cartier Winter Tale” pop-up in the Dubai Mall Grand Atrium. Bringing the essence of Paris at Christmas to the emirate, the celebrate the most wonderful time of year with the spirit of Cartier and its legendary flagship at 13 Rue de la Paix up until January 8, 2025.

Tiffany & Co.’s Constellation of Love to light up Abu Dhabi  

Photo: Supplied

From December 4, 2024, to January 10, 2025, Tiffany & Co. will enchant Abu Dhabi with its Constellation of Love festival. In partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, this immersive takeover celebrates the many aspects of love through Tiffany’s heritage and craftsmanship. The event will see iconic landmarks illuminated in Tiffany Blue, inviting visitors to explore the world of Tiffany with captivating installations and a series of unique activities across the city. A must-see this festive season.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

To truly celebrate a season of festive flavours, one-starred Michelin restaurant Dinner By Heston Bluementhal is here to invite you for an indulgent journey to taste exquisite British flavours. For the whole month of December, guests can wallow in a five-course set menu of blooming tastes at Dhs980 per person. From the Roast Scallops & Cucumber to the Salmon Dressed in Verjus, this restaurant is here to serve you only the best.

For reservations visit www.atlantis.com

Saadiyat Nights returns to Abu Dhabi

Saadiyat Nights launched at the beginning of 2024 with a spectacular performance by Mariah Carey. This month, the popular three-month-long music festival returns and will feature a series of beloved singers. Kicking off the second edition of Saadiyat Nights is Robbie Williams, who will take to the stage in the specially designed outdoor area on Saadiyat Island on December 28, making for the perfect post-Christmas and pre-New Year’s Eve celebration. Expect to hear hit songs by the British pop star including Angel, Rock DJ, Feel and more.

Starting from Dhs295, you can find tickets here

BLACKLANE’S SEVEN-DAY ADVENT CALENDAR

Photo: Supplied

This festive season, Blacklane, the region’s premier chauffeur service, is bringing a festive twist to daily travel by transforming into a seven-day advent calendar. From 9th to 15th December, guests travelling with Blacklane in Dubai will have the chance to receive daily gifts, making every journey an unforgettable festive celebration. To keep up with the holiday spirit and anticipation, Blacklane will provide hints and teasers about the daily gifts the night before on its Instagram page.

Formula 1 arrives in Abu Dhabi

Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or just fancy a bit of celebrity spotting in the UAE’s capital, the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 is the place to be for the first weekend of December in the UAE. Watch on as the world’s fastest drivers will race through 58 laps at Yas Marina Circuit from December 6 to December 8. Known for its thrilling and glamorous atmosphere, this event promises a weekend full of high-speed action, exclusive parties, and high-energy entertainment, the Abu Dhabi F1 is a must-do during December. 

Experience the Ounass Maison

Photo: Supplied

A new shopping experience has arrived in Dubai just in time for gifting season. Introducing Ounass Maison which has opened its doors at the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. Situated in a stunning space by the renowned duo David & Nicholas, the Maison now serves a space for private styling consultations and fittings in exclusive family-style rooms, ensuring a luxurious and personalised experience. Customers are able to enjoy a seamless shopping experience with items delivered upon request in up to two-hours, from the entire Ounass collection online.

Black Coffee at Dubai Harbour

Instagram @realblackcoffee

On December 28, Black Coffee will headline an unforgettable night at Dubai Harbour, bringing his unique blend of house music and African rhythms to the stage. Known for his innovative sound, Black Coffee’s performance promises to be a highlight of Dubai’s outdoor season. The event will feature incredible sunset views and a state-of-the-art production setup, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Tickets are expected to sell out fast, so don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the city’s biggest music events this year.

Shop your tickets here

New Dining at Qasr Al Sarab

Photo: Supplied

If you’re looking for an escape this December, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara could be just the ticket – and the luxury resort has just opened a new restaurant, which makes for all the more reason to visit. Amani is the new culinary offering at the remote resort, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that blends Chef Giuseppe “Pino” Lavarra’s Italian heritage with the flavours of the region. Offering a refined, adult-only dining experience with stunning desert views, guests can savour Mediterranean dishes by the resort’s infinity pool or enjoy sunset drinks at the lounge. From lunch to lively evening gatherings, Amani provides the perfect atmosphere to catch-up with friends or unwind in the tranquil beauty of the desert.

TREAT YOURSELF

Photo: Instagram @sistersbl

Sisters Salon in Dubai has officially launched Color Wow in-salon treatments, being the first and only salon in the UAE to offer these treatments. With three different treatments available catered for different hair types, from a Glass and Glossy Blow-Dry, to the Raise the Root Voluminous Blow-Dry or a Wet Luxe Blow-Dry, there’s something for everyone.

Hoof x 8.Ounce

Photo: Supplied

For those seeking a delectable pairing this December, Hoof, the UAE-based café known for its equestrian-inspired elegance, has partnered with 8.Ounce, the celebrated homegrown dessert brand. Available at Hoof Dubai Mall, Hoof Misk, the Aljada Food Truck, and Grove Village – RAK until the end of 2024, this limited-time menu is a must-try for coffee and dessert lovers alike. Experience the perfect harmony between Hoof’s specialty coffee and 8.Ounce’s globally influenced confections, such as Coconut Cake, Bana Bread Cake, Mango Float Trifle and Espresso Trifle.

soledxb Returns

Photo: Instagram @soledxb

Dubai’s iconic Sole DXB returns from December 13 to 15, 2024, at Dubai Design District, bringing together the best in music, fashion, and street culture. Expect live performances, DJ sets, exclusive sneaker drops, cutting-edge art installations and more. With renowned fashion pop-ups, talks, and workshops, it’s the ultimate destination for culture enthusiasts.