Last week of December is one of the busiest times in Dubai, weather is pleasant and whole city is in holiday mood. I visited Dubai with my wife and kids and tried some of the most amazing activities. I shared a few tips below that in my opinion can make your trip truly exciting. One thing that we learned is covering every Dubai activity in one day is not possible. Half of your time will be wasted on the way while you hop around. Remember to save some of your money for food and the shopping urge that almost everyone gets in Dubai.
- Evening Desert Safari in Lahbab
We went for an evening desert safari in the Lahbab area with my wife and kids in December. The dune bashing offered a thrilling experience that we never thought of. Watching the sunset over the red sand was a next level of experience.
During the day climate was pretty much good but got a little chilly after sunset, specially after 10:30 PM. Recommend carrying a light jacket for evening time.
The desert camp was literally packed and was busy of course because December is the peak holiday season in the city. Keeping that aside, we all enjoyed the tempting BBQ dinner followed by live entertainment. And trust me when I say this, the dishes served were so delicious that I am already thinking about revisiting.
- Hot Air Balloon Dubai
Yes, we tried a hot air balloon ride. The only thing we didn’t like was waking up early morning 😀 Wife and kids were excited but not me, since after traveling whole night, I left with little energy to wake up early morning. The pickup was around 4:30 AM.
What I would suggest that you carry a warm jacket with you. The desert feels really cold before the sun comes up. It is amazing however to watch the sun rise over the desert dunes from above. Go for the activity if your kids really love experiencing adventures. Just to let you know, the best hot air balloon Dubai is little bit expensive option. Better you look into different packages to see what is best for you.
- Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise and XLine
For evening dinner, we booked the Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise. Me, my wife and kids love this short tour. Night looks really beautiful, and the buffet dinner was mouth watering. Since it was last week of the year, it was quite busy, so I’d recommend booking in advance and choosing a premium boat for better seating and views.
We also watched people trying XLine Dubai Marina but we not booked it. My wife and kids was little afraid. It looked thrilling but a little scary from the ground! I’d recommend checking the latest age, weight, and height requirements before booking, especially when travelling with children.
- Burj Khalifa
This was the best experience. We visited the Burj Khalifa and chose the 124th and 125th floors. The views of Dubai from top floor was really amazing, this was the first time we saw something like this. The kids enjoyed spotting famous landmarks from above.
- Global Village Dubai
We also visited Global Village in December month and it was a pure fun family outing. The best part about this place was one can experience different countries from one place. We enjoyed exploring different country area, trying international street food, and window shopping 🙂 obviously we don’t want to carry too much of things while returning to India 🙂
The crowd was insane and once again just because of the holiday season. Visit on a weekday instead. And please arrive early. It’s really a tiring task to find parking space on weekends.
- Dubai Miracle Garden
We also visited Dubai Miracle Garden. My wife and kids loved the colourful flowers. We spent around two hours there. We took photos, videos and exploring the gardens. Add a Miracle Garden visit and a relaxed evening outing and that’s it for the day. Too many spots in a day will make you feel tired, specially your kids.
- Dubai New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Better if you book a New Year Marina dhow cruise for the fireworks show. You get a relaxed atmosphere and a tasty dinner. All this plus clear waterfront views that too away from the crowded Downtown area. From Marina side you will see the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis and JBR fireworks, not the Burj Khalifa show, so book accordingly.
Book well in advance and plan your transport carefully, as roads can close and traffic gets extremely heavy on December 31.
FAQs
What should I wear in Dubai in the last week of December?
Day is pleasant but it gets chilly after sunset and before sunrise. Carry a light jacket for evening time and warm jackets if you are doing hot air balloon.
Is Dubai crowded in the last week of December?
Yes, quite busy due to the holiday season. Desert camp, dhow cruise and Global Village all were crowded, so book in advance and visit Global Village on a weekday.
Where is the best place to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks with family?
I’d recommend a Dubai Marina dhow cruise. Relaxed atmosphere, dinner, waterfront views and away from the busiest Downtown areas.
Is hot air balloon worth it with kids?
If your older kids love adventure, then definitely a hot air balloon is the right choice. Confirm that the package includes a breakfast and a falcon show. The packages can be a bit pricey so compare options before you finalize.
Can kids do XLine Dubai Marina?
Check the latest age, weight, and height requirements before booking, especially when travelling with children.