This month has a lot to offer, with festivals, concerts and Christmas cheer, we’ve rounded up the best of the best for you this December.
1 December – Visit MOTN Festival
Mother of the Nation festival (MOTN), is back this December and running across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. The festival brings together family activities, global cuisine, live entertainment, art installations, rides, games and cultural experiences. Find out more.
2 December – Watch the firework display at Emirates Palace
Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi, will host a dazzling fireworks display on Tuesday for the National Day holiday, starting from 9.15PM. Make sure you head to the hotel early to catch the mesmerizing display. Find out more.
4 December – Join the F1 madness
The F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is back from 4 to 7 December. You can expect practice sessions on Friday, followed by qualifying on Saturday and the grand finale of the 2025 Formula One World Championship will happen at Yas Marina Circuit on Sunday. Expect an action-packed weekend with unforgettable parties, concerts and high energy racing action. Find out more.
6 December – Stroll around a Christmas market
The Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market will kick off on 6 December and will run until the end of the month. A free activity for all the family to attend, it’s the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit this year. With mulled wine, magical abra rides, mince pies and plenty of Christmas tunes this December. Find out more.
6 December – Catch Peggy Gou live
Peggy Gou will be live at FIVE Luxe JBR as part of the Pacha Icons series in December. Playing hits like It Goes Like Nanana, It Makes You Forget and Starry Night, it’s going to be an unforgettable evening on the Dubai music scene. Find out more.
12 December – Head to Sole DXB
Sole DXB returns to d3 for its 13th edition from 12-14 December. At this festival, you can expect the best of international and regional music, fashion, visual art installations, sports tournaments, workshops, and the best food the city has to offer. Find out more.
13 December – Explore Yas Winter Fest
Yas Winter Fest is returning to the capital this December. Discover a destination where the magic of the festive season comes to life through joy, laughter, and fun for the whole family. Where games, food, music, and play come together to create a truly fantastical world of winter. Find out more.
14 December – See Mr Worldwide live
Pitpull will be at Coca-Cola arena on 14 December, as part of his global I’m Back tour. With songs like Timber, Rain Over Me and Give Me Everything being performed live, this is going to be one of the biggest concerts this year. Find out more.
18 December – Watch the Nutcracker at Dubai Opera
A holiday tradition treasured worldwide, The Nutcracker remains one of the most celebrated ballets of all time and it’s here at Dubai Opera this Christmas. The enchanting story combines childhood wonder, magical realms, and the triumph of love which is ideal for the festive season. Find out more.
19 December – Catch David Guetta at Ushuaïa Dubai
David Guetta is set to get behind the decks at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience for one night only and we expect it to be a night to remember. With hits like Hey Mama, I’m Good and Titanium, you’ll be dancing the night away at the iconic venue. Find out more.
22 December – Watch a festive pantomime
Step into the holiday spirit with Rapunzel and Her Holiday Wish, a theatrical musical pantomime, at the brand-new New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates Dubai. The beloved fairy tale will come to life in a spectacular musical pantomime that promises holiday joy for the whole family. Find out more.
31 December – Bring in the New Year with Alicia Key
Alicia Keys, the 17-Grammy Award-winning artist will take to the stage in Abu Dhabi for a huge NYE show at Saadiyat Nights. She will be bringing her chart-topping hits including Fallin’, A Woman’s Worth and If I Ain’t Got You, meaning you can expect some of your all-time favourite tunes to bring in the New Year. Find out more.
DSCVR: The DSCVR Culture Calendar for December
