by Hermes Real Estate 
As Christmas nears, there is always one big question in a kid’s mind. When will the jolly old fellow appear in his red suit with presents in tow? From markets to restaurants, here are the best places for a meet and greet with Father Christmas. The excitement of meeting Santa has no limits. Thankfully, there are many places where you can meet the man himself in Dubai.
BEST PLACES TO SPOT SANTA IN DUBAI
The magic of Christmas is simply undeniable. If you have been on your best behaviour throughout the year, it’s time to ask for your reward from Santa Claus. This year, the tinker bell will be heard as Father Christmas makes an appearance in popular venues across the emirate. Here’s our guide to where you can meet Santa in Dubai for Christmas 2022.
SKI DUBAI
For some Christmas snow and a Santa meetup in Dubai, head to Ski Dubai. Meet the magic man in this winter wonderland brimming with festivity. Don’t forget to ask for your gift and a picture in his grotto. The attraction has several packages the family can use to meet the man in red. Depending on the number of people in your party and other options, you can opt for any of these.
- Meet Santa: AED 125
- Meet Santa Group of Four: AED 450
- Meet Santa and Snow Park: AED 275
- Breakfast with Santa: AED 125
- Meet Santa and Snow Cinema: AED 200
While you are there, participate in the Festive Fun Run with the whole family. Make sure that you register for it before 7th December. Christmas doesn’t get any better than this!
- Location: Mall of the Emirates
JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL
Add a sumptuously delicious buffet at Kitchen Connections at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. It comes with a surprise visit from Father Christmas while you dine. The experience includes a special FoodKiDS menu with special items your children will love. All in all, the brunch offers everything from seafood buckets to eggnog and free-flowing bevvies.
- Timings: Call to know
- Dates: 24th and 25th December
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Hotel
MADINAT JUMEIRAH FESTIVE MARKET
How about sailing in a traditional Abra with Santa to the Madinat Jumeirah? At the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market, you can ride the North Pole Train and go on a mystical journey with Santa on board. Now, isn’t that exciting?
The family-friendly extravaganza is not just about enjoyment; kids can also learn about the tradition of this glorious festival. The North Pole Train, a Venetian Carousel and Santa’s grotto have a history behind them and there is no better way to learn about them than with a visit to the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market.
- Timings: 03:00 pm to late (Monday to Thursday) | 12:00 pm to late (Friday to Sunday)
- Dates: 16th to 30th December
- Location: Madinat Jumeirah
WINTER GARDEN AT HABTOOR PALACE
The kids will love the Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace as it features Santa himself. Live entertainment and photo ops make it an excellent place for the whole family.
Habtoor Palace is one of the many places worth exploring during Christmas in Dubai. With beautifully lit trees, Christmas carols and incredible decorations, it’s a spectacle to behold.
- Timings: 04:00 pm to midnight
- Dates: Until 31st December
- Location: Habtoor Palace
THE RITZ-CARLTON, DUBAI
A bouncy castle, balloon animals, face painting, an audience with Santa and his entourage for the children. Add a hearty festive meal for the adults. If you plan to take your family out to meet Santa in Dubai, you can’t go wrong with The Ritz Carlton.
The hotel also offers several other dining deals where guests can meet Santa Clause as he spreads some Christmas cheer.
- Price: From AED 495
- Dates: 24th and 25th December
- Location: The Ritz-Carlton
MINA’S KITCHEN AT WESTIN DUBAI
Want to meet the missus? Everyone’s favourite UAE family expert, Principal Lisa, will be dressing up as Mrs. Clause at Mina’s Kitchen with sacks full of cheer for the whole family.
The meet and greet is part of a festive roast by Bubbalicious Brunch at Mina’s Kitchen at The Westin Dubai from December 4th 2022.
The kids will delight in posting letters to Santa before Christmas and watching Mrs. Clause speak to Santa on her “magical” telephone. The fun is from 01:00 pm to 04:00 pm!
- Price: AED 450 (free-flowing English bubbly) | AED 350 (free-flowing spirits and house wine) | AED 295 (free-flowing soft drinks) | AED 187 (kids between 6 and 12)
- Date: December 4th, 11th and 18th
- Location: The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina
Apart from the mentioned destinations, visitors can look in Wafi Mall and Bluewaters Island with a meet and greet with Santa Clause. The big man was spotted in both places last year, so keep those peepers peeled during the festive season!
TIME OUT MARKET
The jolly man in red is expected to greet visitors at Time Out Market. Catch up on both Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Don’t forget to take photos!
- Timings: 01:00 pm to 03:00 pm
- Date: 23rd to 25th December
- Location: Downtown Dubai, Souk Al Bahar
