There’s something undeniably special about the UAE in December. A long weekend to start the month, the cooler breeze wafting by, the decorated storefronts — all add up to an unmistakable air of holiday cheer. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi embraces that seasonal spirit wholeheartedly, transforming the property into a wintry scene filled with warmth, tradition, and comfort.
Little ones get their own time to shine, thanks to the Winter Wonderland Camp at Kids Palace that’s taking place until January 11. Workshops during Christmas week provide fun activities to keep them entertained, like designing nutcrackers, making ornaments and painting mugs. And Christmas Day adds to the fun with a gingerbread house competition and an evening pyjama party.
Across the Palace, dining becomes a highlight of the celebrations. Christmas Eve menus on December 24 start from AED 350 and bring with them a seasonal flourish. Vendôme offers a generous international buffet, while Broadway serves a vibrant five-course menu accompanied by a live band. Strawfire presents Japanese-inspired flame-grilled dishes made to be shared, and Talea by Antonio Guida offers Italian refinement with a sumptuous five-course experience. Sand & Koal, meanwhile, sets the mood by the sea beneath a starlit sky.
Christmas Day sees the celebrations continue with brunches and sit-down lunches. Vendôme’s festive brunch features Canadian lobster with Kaluga Hybride caviar, while Cascades brings a relaxed garden setting, complete with family activities. Broadway pairs its four-course menu with live music and complimentary Kids Palace access. Sand & Koal brings the festivities to the beach with locally inspired plates, and Talea’s artisanal Italian lunch highlights wagyu tenderloin with chestnuts and tarragon.
Dessert lovers will find their own personal paradise at Episodes and Mandarin Cake Shop until January 6, with everything from a festive afternoon tea to curated hampers filled with artisanal holiday favourites.
Topping it all off, New Year’s Eve brings the most anticipated event as EGOT winner John Legend headlines the night. Stay packages offer seamless access to the gala dinner, concert, fireworks and after-party, with bookings available directly through the property, while ticket-only options can be purchased through PlatinumList. Visiting guests who want to opt out of the concert can enjoy a lovely dinner at any of the participating restaurants leading up to the countdown, after which fireworks and an afterparty at the Palace Terrace are to follow.
So whether you’re there for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or a quick escape between the two, the holiday season at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is sure to be the kind of break that leaves you lighter, happier and wondering why you didn’t plan to stay a little longer.