My first visit to Dubai during the holiday season is something I still recall. When I got out of the plane I was in hot air and I believed that the city would be full of luxury malls and blinking lights.

The most shocking thing was the soul behind the season, how the people of every part of the world gather and cover the city in laughter, music, food, and unquestionable joy.

You should consider spending the holidays in Dubai in 2026 and you will then enjoy most of the festivity, inclusive and energetic seasons that any city can have.

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Dubai does not follow the holidays in the same manner. It is a mixture of culture, entertainment, tradition and pure spectacle into events and festivals that transform the whole city into a big party.

Shopping in winter, global culture, and more: Here are the ways you can experience the magic of winter holidays in Dubai in 2026.

Dubai Shopping Festival: Not Only Deals.

When you have ever heard about the Dubai Shopping Festival, you may believe that it is only about huge sales. However, when it comes to the holidays being there to experience it is a different thing altogether.

The festival is scheduled to run officially during the colder months and in the year 2026 the festival is likely to be larger and fuller than ever before.

Strolling in the festival is as though strolling in a Christmas party across a city. Yes, there are fantastic bargains on things such as electronics and fashion but there is also live music, street shows and interactive installations on every street corner.

I recall discovering a small open air stage in which a band was performing some upbeat songs and then within seconds, I saw people dancing in the street as though it were a town party.

It lights up the festival in the evenings, literally. The art installations and fairy lights transform the normal walks into magical ones as the streets become glowing.

DSF is worth going to even when not making purchases and having a good time exploring Dubai at night and experiencing the holiday atmosphere.

Global Village: A World Tour in an Evening.

It is in Global Village where the multicultural heart of Dubai can be seen. This open-air festival is a place to visit during the holiday season. Just imagine that you are walking through pavilions representing various countries full of real food, homemade goods, and cultural shows.

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I was enjoying Moroccan mint tea in one part of the room and a dance of another nation was going on right in front of me, a few steps ahead.

Children were screaming on roller-coasters, people were walking hand in hand, and at any place you turned, you could see color, noise, and warmth. It is a festival that is alive but not noisy as it helps people gather together in such a manner that demonstrates both heritage and happiness.

Outdoor Markets and Winter Wonderlands.

The cool weather of winter in Dubai is one of the few places in the world where being in the outdoors markets and winter festivals would be very comfortable and enjoyable. By 2026, the variety of outdoor entertainment that will be offered will be a combination of festive decor, live entertainment and seasonal delights.

Among my best memories was a stroll I made at an outdoor craft market on a cool evening. There was a smell of roasting chestnuts and spiced beverages in the air, and performers of various kinds occupied small groups of people seated on warm benches.

New Year Eve Parties: Fireworks and Decisions.

Celebrations of the New Year Eve in Dubai are a legend, and 2026 will be no exception.

Fireworks are lit up all around the city which appears to be set off in all directions, the Burj Khalifa, the Palm, and even the Marina have their own shows which are seen glittering the sky.

The thing about Dubai that is great is the option. You will be able to attend huge community festivals with music, countdowns, and rooftop or beach, a smaller gathering. One of the years, I observed the fireworks on a small terrace cafe.