Upcoming Dubai events to look forward to in December 2024
Are you looking for exciting upcoming events in Dubai? With a long list of activities, concerts and festivities, this month’s calendar has something for everyone. Let’s look at the best upcoming events in Dubai for December 2024.
UAE NATIONAL DAY EVENTS IN DUBAI
Get ready to celebrate the 53rd UAE National Day with a bang! From fireworks and parades to cultural performances that honour the union of the Trucial States, Eid Al Etihad celebrations in Dubai have it all.
From family-friendly events to vibrant citywide celebrations, activities during National Day in Dubai have something for everyone. Watch the skies light up with mesmerising displays or join in the festivities that reflect the UAE’s rich heritage and dynamic future.
DUBAI EVENTS: POPULAR MUSICAL SHOWS IN December 2024
321 Festival
The 321 Festival is a music lover’s dream, kicking off the Dubai Shopping Festival with an impressive line-up. On 6th December, musical icons Georges Wassouf and Kadim Al Sahir will enchant audiences with timeless performances at the Coca-Cola Arena.
The excitement continues on 8th December with Coke Studio Live, featuring 12 South Asian artists, including Kaifi Khalil, Hasan Raheem and Abdul Hannan. From chart-toppers to soulful renditions, the festival promises non-stop entertainment.
- Tickets:
- 6th December 2024: From AED 150
- 8th December 2024: From AED 249
- Date & Timings:
- 6th December 2024: 09:00 pm
- 8th December 2024: 08:30 pm
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
Da-Bangg Reloaded with Salman Khan
Bollywood magic takes centre stage at Dubai Harbour on 7th December as superstar Salman Khan leads the star-studded Da-Bangg Reloaded show. Expect dazzling dance performances, hilarious comedy routines and blockbuster vibes. From cinematic hits to electrifying stage energy, this event is a must for Bollywood enthusiasts.
- Tickets: AED 150 – AED 75,000
- Date: 7th December 2024
- Timings: Door opens: 06:00 pm | Show starts: 09:00 pm
- Location: Dubai Harbour Experience
Coke Studio Live
Experience the best of South Asian music as Coke Studio Live takes over Coca-Cola Arena on 8th December 2024. Curated by Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan, the night features a line-up of talented artists performing viral hits and fan favourites.
Expect soulful renditions of tracks like Kana Yaari by Kaifi Khalil and O Yaara by Abdul Hannan. With electrifying energy and musical diversity, this event is a treat for music lovers.
- Tickets: AED 249 – AED 999
- Date: 8th December 2024
- Timings: Door opens: 07:00 pm | Show starts: 08:30 pm
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
Ricky Martin live
Latin music sensation Ricky Martin will light up the Coca-Cola Arena on 14th December 2024 with his chart-topping hits and infectious energy. Part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, this concert is perfect for fans of Latin pop and vibrant performances. Sing along to your favourite tunes and experience the magic of one of the world’s most charismatic performers.
- Tickets: AED 299 – AED 999
- Date: 14th December 2024
- Timings: Door opens: 06:30 pm | Show starts: 08:00 pm
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
Singin’ in the Rain
Relive the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age with Singin’ in the Rain at Dubai Opera. This dazzling stage adaptation features classic numbers like Good Morning and Make ’em Laugh. Jonathan Church directs the show and combines live rain effects, stunning choreography and breathtaking set designs.
- Tickets: AED 320 – AED 790
- Date: 30th November 2024 -14th December 2024
- Timings: 08:00 pm
- Location: Dubai Opera
Other notable music events happening in Dubai in December 2024include:
- Eraserheads live at Expo City Dubai on 8th December 2024
- Emrah live at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on 12th December 2024
- Blue and Eternal live at Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Stadium on 14th December 2024
- The Asha Bhosle and Sonu Nigam Legacy Concert at Coca-Cola Arena on 29th December 2024
SPORTS EVENTS IN DECEMBER 2024
Santa Run 2024
Kick off the festive season in high spirits with the Santa Run 2024. This unique, family-friendly event isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of joy and togetherness. Whether you choose to walk or run the 1km, 2.5km or 5km courses, the cheerful atmosphere and holiday-themed decorations make it a delight for all ages.
Don your Santa hats, lace up your trainers and join hundreds spreading festive cheer along the scenic route at Palm Jumeirah. Don’t forget to capture your merry moments at the finish line!
- Tickets: AED 49 – AED 250
- Date: 7th December 2024
- Time: 08:30 am
- Location: Palm Jumeirah, West Beach
Dubai World Obstacle Championship
Push your limits at the Dubai World Obstacle Championship. This adrenaline-pumping event tests your strength, agility and endurance across courses ranging from 100m sprints with 12 obstacles to challenging 5,000m races.
Taking place at the vibrant Dubai Design District, this championship is perfect for thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable challenge.
- Tickets: AED 100 – AED 800
- Date: 5th – 8th December 2024
- Location: Dubai Design District
Dubai Racing Carnival
Get ready for an adrenaline rush at the Dubai Racing Carnival! Taking place at Meydan Racecourse, this event promises thrilling races with the world’s top jockeys and horses competing head-to-head. Racing fans, don’t miss this chance to see live action with the grand finale happening on 5th April 2025.
- Tickets: From AED 5
- Date: 8th November 2024 – 5th April 2025
- Time: 05:30 pm
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
Dubai Basketball Club
International basketball is coming to Dubai! Witness the debut of Dubai Basketball Club in the ABA League at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena.
This is a landmark moment for Dubai. The city’s first international sports franchise will face off against top European teams, including Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia and more. Led by Coach Jurica Golemac, the talented team will play 15 matches in a thrilling season.
- Tickets: AED 75 – AED 1,100
- Date: Please check the venue’s official website for the latest matches
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
COMEDY SHOWS
Shane Todd live
Prepare for a night of endless laughter with Shane Todd’s new show, Full House. Taking the stage at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Todd’s sharp observational humour and relatable anecdotes promise a side-splitting experience.
Whether you’re a fan of his hit podcast, Tea With Me or need some comic relief, this show is not to be missed.
- Tickets: AED 150 – AED 250
- Date: 6th December 2024
- Time: 08:00 pm
- Location: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
OTHER SHOWS AND DUBAI EVENTS December 2024
Dubai Shopping Festival
Kick off the holiday season with the 30th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival. Running from 6th December 2024 to 12th January 2025, DSF transforms the city into a shopper’s paradise. Every day is exciting with unbeatable deals, live concerts and thrilling family activities.
The festival promises a whirlwind of celebrations, highlighting Dubai’s renowned retail and entertainment scene.
- Tickets: As per the activity
- Date: 6th December 2024 – 12th January 2025
Winter City
Step into a winter wonderland at Winter City at Expo City, where festive cheer meets spectacular entertainment. Under the twinkling dome of Al Wasl Plaza, guests can enjoy carolling, dazzling light shows and even a magical Tree Lighting Ceremony. Unique dining experiences and live music make Winter City an enchanting celebration for everyone.
- Tickets: From AED 40
- Date: 6th – 31st December 2024
- Timings: 02:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Location: Expo City Dubai
Pluma Show
Pluma is a heartwarming tale of a young girl dreaming of flight. Through the enchanting medium of the circus, this story unfolds with breathtaking aerial acrobatics and captivating storytelling. Prepare to be amazed as world-class trapeze artists perform daring stunts that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
- Tickets: AED 95 – AED 375
- Date: Till 12th January 2025
- Timings:
- Thursday: 07:00 pm to 09:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 07:00 pm to 09:00 pm | 07:30 pm to 09:30 pm
- Sunday: 07:00 pm to 09:00 pm
- Location: Pluma Circus Tent, Dubai Festival City Mall
Sole DXB 2024
Dubai’s coolest street culture festival, Sole DXB, returns with an unbeatable line-up of live performances, DJ sets and creative workshops. The event in Dubai Design District celebrates lifestyle and street culture, attracting global talent and enthusiasts. With international rap stars, inspiring talks and cutting-edge fashion brands, it’s a hotspot for trendsetters.
- Tickets: AED 295 – AED 995
- Date: 13th – 15th December 2024
- Timings: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Location: Dubai Design District
La Perle by Dragone
Witness a spectacle unlike any other at La Perle, the region’s permanent resident show. This innovative aqua theatre combines stunning choreography with heart-stopping stunts, leaving audiences in awe. La Perle’s world-class performers will have you on the edge of your seat, with feats ranging from breathtaking aerial acrobatics to gravity-defying dives.
- Tickets: AED 269 – AED 809
- Date: Wednesday to Saturday
- Timings: 06:30 pm – 08:00 pm | 09:00 pm – 10:30 pm
- Location: La Perle
Big Bad Wolf Book Sale
Calling all book lovers! The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale is back, bringing over a million books at unbeatable prices. Covering every genre and language. It’s a book-shopping dream come true, just in time for the festive season.
- Date: 29th November 2024 – 9th December 2024
- Location: Sound Stages, Dubai Studio City
DSF Drones Show
Experience the night skies of Dubai come alive with the DSF Drones Show. This breathtaking spectacle features 1,000 drones synchronised in captivating performances, accompanied by stunning compositions. Hosted every evening during the Dubai Shopping Festival, the show offers a visual and auditory feast at Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.
- Tickets: Free
- Date: 6th December -12th January 2025
- Timings: 08:00 pm | 10:00 pm
- Location: Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR
Luffy Lutfi | Emirati-Manga
An exciting fusion of Japanese manga and Emirati culture awaits you at Alserkal Avenue from 12th December 2024. The Luffy Lutfi | Emirati-Manga exhibition presents the imaginative works of Dubai-based artist Abdulla Lutfi.
Through a clever blend of bold black-and-white drawings, Lutfi captures the spirit of Emirati life while embracing the world of anime. This free exhibition offers a new perspective on the connection between cultures, where art speaks to both heritage and imagination.
- Tickets: Free
- Date: 12th December -2nd January 2025
- Timings: 06:00 pm
- Location: Warehouse 35, Mestaria Gallery, Alserkal Avenue
NEW YEAR FIREWORKS
Celebrate 2025’s arrival in style with Dubai’s famous New Year fireworks. The city is renowned for its extravagant displays, and plenty of New Year fireworks in Dubai promise even more magic.
Emaar is hosting an exclusive New Year’s Eve celebration at Burj Park. The event offers a spectacular front-row view of the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks and the Dubai Fountain show. It will also include live entertainment and gourmet food and beverage options.
- Tickets: AED 580 (adults) | AED 370 (kids above the age of 5)
- Timings: 03:30 pm onwards
FAQS ABOUT UPCOMING DUBAI EVENTS DECEMBER 2024 AND MORE
WHICH WINTER/CHRISTMAS MARKETS ARE OPENING IN DUBAI?
The city’s festive spirit shines bright with famous Christmas markets in Dubai, such asthe Winter District at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, the Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace and the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market. Each offers unique attractions, food stalls and holiday cheer.
WHAT EVENTS ARE HAPPENING FOR NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS IN DUBAI?
Many city malls, restaurants and leisure destinations are going BIG to ensure 2025 starts in spectacular style. Want to know where all the festivities are taking place? Check out our guide on New Year celebrations in Dubai.
WHERE TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS BRUNCHES IN DUBAI?
Whether you’re after a chic, themed brunch or extravagant buffet, Christmas brunches in Dubai offer something for everyone.
WHERE TO ENJOY NEW YEAR BRUNCHES IN DUBAI?
Indulge in sumptuous New Year brunches across Dubai, offering special menus, live entertainment and festive vibes to welcome 2025.
WHAT ARE THE OTHER CONCERTS HAPPENING IN DUBAI AND ABU DHABI?
From international music legends to emerging artists, here’s the complete list of upcoming concerts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for 2024 you can’t miss!
That concludes our guide to the upcoming events in December 2024 in Dubai. We hope you have a great time at any of the biggest events in Dubai you attend. If you plan to visit the capital, several events in Abu Dhabi may tickle your fancy, too.
Like annual events in Dubai, many festivals are also happening in Abu Dhabi this year. Whatever your passion, our guide to the annual events in Abu Dhabi has you covered!
Let us know about your experiences in the comments section below.
