My Swedish parents immigrated to Southern California in the ’80s, and every year for Christmas they would force my siblings and I to the beach. I say “force” with no exaggeration, because it was a struggle…for them.
“Why are we going to the beach?!” my siblings and I, all wrapped in thick hoodies, complained. “It’s not even warm!” It was probably at least 20 degrees out.
“It was snowing and freezing this time of year for us growing up! You have no idea what it means for us to celebrate Christmas on a beach!” – my parents.
Well, after having lived in the UK for six years, I now finally understand what they were talking about (sorry mom and dad, you were right). So, for those understandably desperate to escape the cold and flock to Dubai, here’s a list of 8 great hotels and resorts that’ll give you the Vitamin D, sandy feet, and pampering you so deserve and need this holiday season.
Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
With celebrations throughout December such as a Christmas eve dinner, reception, Christmas tree lighting, and a special Christmas beach picnic, if you book this for the family you’ll be in your mom’s good book for all of 2024. Click here for more info
Melia Desert Palm
Did anyone say horses? This equestrian themed resort boasts an immense New Years Eve fiesta, and if you have any younger travelers with you, you’ll be relieved to hear there’s a Christmas Day Brunch with Santa Claus (but considering the climate, he might be tan wearing swim trunks, we can’t confirm). Click here to book
Raffles The Palm Dubai
Turkey and ham is all great, but for those adventurous tourists, Matagi has some of the best sushi in the region and is guaranteed to electrify your Christmas dinner. And after you’ve marinated by the pool, you can conclude with A Christmas Eve with Sinatra at the Sola Jazz Lounge. Click here to book
Anatara The Palm Dubai
Put another shrimp on the barbie at Antara’s Christmas day BBQ lunch, along with over very Aussie Christmas festivities. Just please inform your enthusiastic uncle that there will unfortunately be no Kangaroo boxing matches. All bookings made on the official website here will be rewarded with resort credit and discounted rates
FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Dubbed the hottest hotel on Palm Jumeirah, this option may be more suited for those looking to celebrate the holidays in a slightly more rambunctious fashion rather than watching Home Alone with the family. If you’ve left your icy homeland and want to get a tan, cut some shapes on the dancefloor, and meet some festive hotties, then FIVE is the place. Click here to book
Saadiyat Rotana Resorts & Villas (Abu Dhabi)
Yes, this one is in Abu Dhabi, but it’s only about an hour away from Dubai, and has enough spa treatments and cocktails to keep the adults relaxed while the kids float in the lazy river. And if you come during the winter months, there are multiple discounts on spas, dinner, and other activities. Click here to book
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira Dubai
With one of the best eateries in Dubai, Netsu, The Mandarin Oriental boasts a smorgasbord of Christmas festivities and cuisines from all around the world. And their New Year’s Eve night begins at 8pm, and includes a DJ, live band, and, drumroll please, crepes and churros. Click here to book
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Having recently been rebranded, this absolute (for lack of a better word) palace needs to be seen to be believed. With a 7 meter tall Christmas tree in the middle of the lobby, this hotel is fit for the godliest of gods and goddesses, and that means your mom and dad, because they deserve it. The Christmas brunch and/or Christmas dinner features dishes from India to Italy, and the gift baskets from the cake shop have been said to challenge even Harrod’s in terms of delectability. Book it here
