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9 Fun Family Activities in Dubai this Weekend

The weekend is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you plan it out! From family-friendly music festivals to Christmassy movie nights, check out these 9 things to do in Dubai this weekend!

1. Groove on the Grass

Ready to groove one last time? Don’t miss the season closing party of Groove on the Grass at Emirates Golf Club, a family-friendly electronic dance music festival (yes, these actually exist). With 2 stages, 11 artists performing live, live art, fashion market, food trucks, good vibes and super cool people, you know it’s going to be great!

When: Friday 15th December, from 5pm to 3am
Cost: From AED 210 (online at platinumlist.net)
Where: Emirates Golf Club

2. Home Alone

Want to watch one of the most epic Christmas films of all time? Yep, we’re totally talking about Home Alone! Round up the family and make your way to Bikers Cafe on Saturday to watch Home Alone 2. They’ve also got a festive menu on the day. For more details, see the Facebook event.

When: Saturday 16th December, at 8pm
Where: Bikers Cafe, Jumeirah 1

3. Jingle All The Way

Don your Santa hat and head to the Dubai Opera for a weekend of festive carols and Christmas classics. The show will be performed by the London Concert Orchestra Show and West End soloists! Trust us, you’ll be singing and dancing down the aisles all night long.

When: Thursday 14th December, at 8pm; Friday 15th December, at 3pm & 8pm; Saturday 16th December, at 11am & 3pm
Cost: From AED 150
Where: Dubai Opera

4. Festive Afternoon Tea

The St. Regis Hotel has a special festive afternoon tea planned for everyone, which includes traditional tea-time favourites, a wide selection of teas, festive holiday drinks (hot chocolate with marshmallows, anyone?), and more!

When: Thursday 14th December, at 3pm
Cost: AED 110 per child; AED 225 per adult; AED 385 including bubbly
Where: St. Regis Hotel, at Al Habtoor City

5. Family Open Day Bash

With live cooking stations, loads of fun activities for the little ones, golf experiences and festive offers, you won’t want to miss out on the festive bash at Els Club this Saturday!

When: Saturday 16th December, from 12pm to 9pm
Cost: Free entry
Where: The Els Club

6. Rise DCH

As always, there’s so much going on at Dubai Creek Harbour over the weekend! From magicians and jugglers to live music and games, there’s always something going on. Don’t miss the screening of Ratatouille on Friday night, and Moana on Saturday! Here’s the full schedule of activities.

When: Friday 15th & Saturday 16th December, from 12pm to late
Cost: Free entry
Where: Rise, at Dubai Creek Harbour

7. Winter Carnival

Celebrate the festive season with the whole family at the festive winter carnival on Saturday! There will be a petting zoo, stalls selling children’s creations, a snowy playground, festive treats and hot cocoa! As well as a raffle draw to end the day. For more info, check out the Facebook event.

When: Saturday 16th December, from 10am to 2pm
Cost: Free for all
Where: Safari Kid Nursery

8. Family Pottery

Parents, round up your little ones and sign up for a super fun pottery class at Yadawei Studio! This is a beginner session, which includes an hour of pottery play. So unleash your inner artist and get messy, while bonding with your children!

When: Friday 15th December, from 11am to 12.30pm
Cost: AED 45 for kids under 16; AED 80 for ages 16 and up
Where: Yadawei Ceramic Studio

9. Meet Santa in Dubai

Whether your little ones have been naughty or nice this year, bring them to Yalumba to meet Santa Claus! There’s also a soft play area in the garden, and gingerbread making classes for kids, while the adults can enjoy all the food and drinks on offer.

When: Daily, until Sunday 24th December. From 4pm to 8pm
Cost: AED 25, click here to book your appointment with Santa
Where: Yalumba, Le Meridien Hotel in Garhoud

If you’re staying in town for winter break, check out these 6 Winter Camps in Dubai, or if you’re little one is celebrating his or her birthday soon, here are 7 awesome birthday venues they will love!