Christmas in Dubai: A Guide for Vietnamese Travelers

Have you ever imagined how dazzling Christmas in Dubai can be, where an Islamic city lights up with Christmas trees, festive markets, concerts, and a modern holiday atmosphere? In this article, iVISA will guide you through the Christmas celebrations in one of the world’s most luxurious destinations, letting you experience a unique and memorable holiday season.

What makes Christmas in Dubai special? Overview for Vietnamese travelers

Every year, when Christmas tunes fill the malls, Dubai enters its brightest festive season. In 2024, Dubai welcomed nearly 19 million international visitors, peaking during Christmas and New Year. Without snow or winter cold, the city creates its Christmas atmosphere through lights, music, and modern festive spaces amidst the desert.

Dubai is an Islamic city, but how does it celebrate Christmas?

Many people associate Dubai with strict Islamic culture and assume Christmas isn’t visible there. In reality, over 80% of Dubai’s population are foreigners, mostly from Europe and Western countries, making Christmas a familiar part of life.

As a result, Christmas in Dubai is vibrant and noticeable in urban life. When visiting Dubai in December, travelers can easily experience the festive spirit at malls, hotels, and major tourist spots. The lights, music, and Western-style decorations make Dubai welcoming for first-time visitors or those planning a self-guided trip.

Why travel to Dubai during Christmas?

Christmas coincides with the most pleasant weather of the year in Dubai. In December, daytime temperatures range from 24-26°C, and nights are around 14-16°C, dry with minimal rain-perfect for sightseeing, strolling outdoors, or watching fireworks. Experienced travelers Dubai often consider this period the best time to visit Dubai.

Additionally, end-of-year events make Dubai particularly attractive for Vietnamese tourists. The Dubai Shopping Festival, from late December to January, offers discounts, street performances, and fireworks. On New Year’s Eve, fireworks at Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah attract millions of viewers. Global Village and luxury hotels also host Christmas parties, concerts, and events, keeping the festive spirit alive throughout the season.

How does Christmas in Dubai compare to Europe, Korea, Japan, or Singapore?

Compared to Europe, Dubai’s Christmas stands out for its weather. While European cities are cold and snowy, Dubai enjoys mild sunshine, dry air, and comfortable temperatures, allowing outdoor festivals and fireworks without heavy coats. Compared to South Korea and Japan, Dubai’s celebrations are livelier, with large-scale events, hotel Christmas parties, and grand fireworks. Compared to Singapore, Dubai impresses with luxury and scale. Both have warm climates and modern spaces, but Dubai surpasses in decorations, shows, and world-class light displays. The comfortable weather and luxurious feel make Dubai a unique Christmas destination, attracting travelers worldwide, especially from Vietnam.

Read more: What to Wear in Dubai?

Christmas weather in Dubai

Dubai has a desert climate, and while summers are extremely hot, winter is pleasant. Around Christmas, daytime temperatures are 18-24°C-ideal for walking, taking photos with Christmas trees, or visiting outdoor festive areas. Nights are cooler, just enough to feel the Christmas atmosphere.

Read more: Which Season Is the Best for Traveling to Dubai?

December is also when the festive spirit is strongest, with minimal rain and dry weather, perfect for shows, Christmas markets, outdoor dining, or counting down fireworks. Compared to summer, this season makes Christmas in Dubai more enjoyable and festival-like.

Visa procedures for Vietnamese visiting Dubai during Christmas

Vietnamese travelers must obtain a visa to visit and stay in Dubai. The most common method is an e-visa processed online, without fingerprints or interviews. However, December is peak tourist season, so early visa preparation is crucial. A delay of even a few days could result in missing flights or pre-booked Christmas events.

Documents required for a Dubai tourist visa

The application is straightforward but must be accurate. You’ll need:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Passport-size photo (4x6cm) with a white background
• Round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel booking confirmation in Dubai
• Full personal information (name, occupation, contact)

Travel itinerary (especially useful for self-guided trips)

Read more: Do You Need a Visa to Visit Dubai?

Some cases may require proof of finances or an invitation letter, though this is uncommon for short-term tourist visas. Processing usually takes 3-7 working days. During Christmas and New Year, iVISA recommends applying 2-3 weeks in advance to avoid delays. Common mistakes include late submission, incorrect photos, or passport info errors.

Dubai tourist visa fees

Visa types and approximate costs:

Visa Type	Duration	Entry	Fee (USD)
Transit Visa	48 hours	Single	~15 USD
Transit Visa	96 hours	Single	~59 USD
Tourist Visa	30 days	Single	~90 USD
Tourist Visa	30 days	Multiple	~136 USD
Tourist Visa	60 days	Single	~177 USD
Tourist Visa	60 days	Multiple	~231 USD

Fees may rise during peak Christmas season, and processing can take longer. Many Vietnamese travelers choose iVISA’s full-service Dubai visa, with over 98% approval rate, making your visa hassle-free.

Suggested Dubai Christmas itinerary

Dubai during Christmas is lively, illuminated, and full of festive activities. iVISA shares a sample 5-day, 4-night itinerary for Vietnamese travelers:

Day	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Day 1: Vietnam → Dubai	Fly from Vietnam to Dubai	Immigration, hotel check-in	Light meals near hotel, rest
Day 2: Dubai Downtown	Breakfast, visit Burj Khalifa & Wings of Mexico Statue	Explore Dubai Mall: Aquarium, Ice Rink, Waterfall	Dubai Fountain show, dinner near Burj Lake, enjoy Christmas atmosphere
Day 3: Dubai Frame & Old Town	Breakfast, visit Dubai Frame & Al Bastakiya	Abra ride on Dubai Creek, shopping at Gold Souk & Spice Souk	Dinner at Al Seef Street, explore Old Town
Day 4: Palm Jumeirah & Miracle Garden	Breakfast, visit Dubai Miracle Garden & Jumeirah Mosque	The View at The Palm, Atlantis Aquaventure or Dolphin Bay optional	Walk JBR Beach, dinner at Madinat Jumeirah, enjoy Dubai’s winter vibes
Final Day: Dubai → Vietnam	Fly back to Vietnam	Rest on plane	Arrive in Vietnam, end of trip

Read more: What to buy when traveling to Dubai

Q&A for Christmas travel in Dubai

Must-visit Christmas spots in Dubai

Don’t miss Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, or JBR during Christmas. These areas feature bright lights, Christmas trees, and festive activities, perfect for photos, shopping, and outdoor fun.

Tour package or self-guided travel?

Package tours save time and provide ready-made itineraries, while self-guided trips allow more flexible and personal experiences.

Dubai or Singapore for family trips?

For outdoor Christmas lights and festive atmosphere, Dubai is ideal. Singapore suits families who prefer indoor light shows.

Is Dubai suitable for kids during Christmas?

Yes, Dubai offers family-friendly activities, amusement parks, festive decorations, and dining experiences. Parents can also enjoy sightseeing, cuisine, and photo opportunities, creating memorable family trips.

Visiting Dubai at Christmas promises a wonderful holiday with unique experiences. The festive season is approaching-iVISA hopes you’ve found your ideal destination in Dubai. Don’t forget to follow iVISA for more tips to plan the perfect trip!

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