Unusual festive things to do in Abu Dhabi this December.
Who said Christmas has to mean jumpers, roast dinners and cold weather? In Abu Dhabi, the festive season is being reimagined with poolside brunches, ocean breezes and Santa swapping sleigh bells for surfboards. If you’re craving something a little less traditional — and a lot more sunshine — these unconventional Christmas experiences offer a refreshingly different way to celebrate December in the capital.
Surf, Santa & Poolside Feasting at Nalu
This December, Nalu is flipping the festive script with a three-day Christmas celebration that leans firmly into surf culture and laid-back island vibes. Running from 25 to 27 December, the beachside favourite hosts a breezy, poolside festive brunch where holiday cheer meets barefoot luxury.
Taking place daily from 1pm to 4pm, the experience pairs a generous festive set menu with all-day pool access, making it ideal for families, groups of friends or anyone keen to escape traditional Christmas formality. Little ones are well catered for too, with supervised festive activities throughout the weekend — and on 25 December, Surfing Santa himself makes a special appearance, popping by to meet kids before heading back out to catch a wave.
25–27 December | 1pm–4pm | AED 350 soft package / AED 450 house package (both include pool access) | Nalu, Al Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi | Tel: 02 419 8509| @nalu_restaurant
Jingle-Waves: A Poolside Christmas at Ilios
Over at Ilios, Christmas comes with a Greek-island twist thanks to Jingle-Waves, a three-day festive programme designed for sun-seekers and families alike. From 25 to 27 December, guests are invited to enjoy a Christmas-themed brunch each afternoon, paired with all-day pool access and a full schedule of relaxed festive fun. Running from 1pm to 4pm, the brunch experience is complemented by a dedicated Kids Corner where little ones can decorate ginger cookies and get hands-on with festive crafts. Santa makes his grand appearance on 25 December, bringing gifts, sweets and plenty of photo-worthy moments to the poolside celebration.
25–27 December | 1pm–4pm | AED 325 soft package / AED 450 house package (both include pool access) | Ilios, Al Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi | Tel: 02 419 8508 | reservations@iliosbeachclubuae.com | @ilios.abudhabi
Winter Wonderland at The Galleria Al Maryah Island
This festive pop-up returns with an all-new holiday experience that blends magical installations, creative activities and immersive décor. Look out for festive art installations, interactive moments and seasonal celebration zones that make your visit feel like stepping into a storybook winter escape — even by the water.
6–26 December 2025 | The Galleria, Al Maryah Island | FREE entry | galleria.ae
Santa Grotto & Seasonal Fun at Yas Mall
Yas Mall brings festive charm with a cosy Santa’s Grotto and holiday décor throughout December. Families can meet Santa in a picture-perfect setting, enjoy gift-wrapping stations and seasonal photo spots — ideal for a festive outing with kids or a casual holiday evening stroll.
Throughout December 2025 | Yas Mall | Free entry | yasmall.ae
Ferrari World Winterfest
While not strictly Christmas-centric, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi hosts its Winterfest celebration this season — blending high-octane thrills with festive fun. Expect special winter-themed events, entertainment and rides suitable for families and thrill-seekers alike, adding a twist to your holiday plans.
December 2025 – early January 2026 | Ferrari World, Yas Island | ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Bonus Event
Zayed National Museum Opening — December 2025
A major cultural milestone lands this December with the opening of the Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island. Not a festive event per se, but perfect for a holiday culture reset between merry moments — exploring Emirati heritage in an architectural landmark.
Opening December 3, 2025 | Saadiyat Cultural District | Zayed National Museum
