(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

December in the UAE has evolved into a full month of celebrations, from the 31st Dubai Shopping Festival, which launched on December 5 with daily car-and-cash prizes, to festive food, tree-lightings, brunches and Boxing Day feasts spread across the city.

DSF sets the tone with its Mega Raffle, offering shoppers a daily chance to win a brand-new Nissan plus Dh100,000, and a Dh400,000 grand prize on the festival's final day, making December one of the most exciting months for deals and festive outings.

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Christmas Eve dinners (from Dh135 to Dh550)

Across the UAE, restaurants are rolling out lavish Christmas Eve menus at a wide range of prices from Dh135 neighbourhood roasts to Dh550 luxury Italian dinners.

Residents can enjoy multicourse menus, live entertainment and themed dishes, whether dining by the waterfront in Madinat Jumeirah or celebrating in DIFC's luxury venues.

Where to go:

Social at Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah is offering a five-course Italian Christmas Eve dinner curated by Chef Carmine using recipes passed down from his Nonna. At Souk Madinat, Trattoria will serve a three-course festive Italian menu with views of the Burj Al Arab and live music. Over at Dubai Hills, Hillhouse Brasserie is preparing a hearty Christmas plate with classic roast turkey and Brussels sprouts, while The Noodle House is rolling out Asian-themed festive lunches and dinners across all outlets.

For a more elevated evening, Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria DIFC presents a refined menu featuring truffle dishes, gourmet starters and live music. The Gourmet Yard at Embassy Suites Business Bay will host a festive celebration with sharing-style dishes and live cooking stations.

Christmas day brunches (from Dh165 to Dh995)

Christmas Day brunches remain one of Dubai's most loved festive traditions and this year, prices range widely from Dh165 casual platters to Dh995 champagne brunches. Families can choose between poolside celebrations, Italian feasts or neighbourhood-style buffets.

Where to go:

Rio Restaurant and Lounge at Embassy Suites Business Bay offers a poolside buffet with winter-spiced dishes and live entertainment. Families looking for a fun twist can head to Five Iron Golf Dubai, which pairs a festive brunch with state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators.

Social at Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah will host a buzzing Italian brunch with seasonal cocktails, entertainment and sharing-style dishes. Over in Villanova, The Bolt Hole features live entertainment during lunch and festive plates at dinner.

Festive afternoon teas (from Dh210 to Dh325)

Afternoon tea has become one of December's most popular daytime rituals, offering residents a slower, more elegant festive experience. Prices range from Dh210 for classic tea selections to Dh325 for themed experiences with a glass of bubbly.

Where to go:

At Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, Peacock Alley serves classic holiday-inspired treats accompanied by live piano music. In DIFC, the Waldorf Astoria's Peacock Alley partners with Galeries Lafayette for a themed afternoon tea featuring French-inspired pastries and a festive goodie bag.

Christmas tree lighting (free)

Tree-lighting ceremonies, many of them free to attend, have become a beloved community tradition. Families gather for hot chocolate, Santa visits, carols and outdoor celebrations under twinkling lights.

Where to go:

Embassy Suites by Hilton Business Bay offers a charming lobby ceremony with festive treats and a special appearance from Santa. In Villanova, The Bolt Hole hosts a cosy neighbourhood-style lighting with carols, hot chocolate and even puppuccinos for pets. At Dubai Hills, Hillhouse Brasserie and The Duck Hook present a joint ceremony featuring a 20-foot tree, live choir and festive drinks.

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