By Judy Rickatson
Although the holiday decorations don’t appear until December (a welcome relief if you’re used to seeing them right after Halloween) many find the malls and stores in Dubai are more festive than in most Christian countries. True, snowmen and Christmas trees are more popular than nativity scenes, but the message is clear, Christmas is welcomed in Dubai, particularly if those who celebrate it have money to spend.
Almost all hotels offer Christmas lunches, brunches, dinners and teas and some throw in carol singers and visits from Santa himself. Dubai’s churches (there are both Catholic and non-denominational) provide the usual services and concerts. Western expat schools host Christmas bazaars and concerts, much to the bemusement of parents who have long ago seen such traditions disappear back home.
Those from northern hemisphere can enjoy the novelty of a Christmas picnic on the beach, while those from the south can take to the slopes at the indoor ski hill at Mall of the Emirates or skate at one of 3 indoor ice rinks.
Just be warned that December 25th is not a public holiday, although many private companies do give their employees the day off. The upside though is that all stores and public transit are operational on the big day, so no worries if you forget to buy stuffing or some other Christmas essential!
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