60 things to do in Abu Dhabi this festive weekend

It’s Chriiiiiistmas…

Whatever your traditions, whether you’re celebrating or just along for the sleigh ride — we’ve got all the best ways to stay merry in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

Friday, December 23

Oh yes they did

There’s no shame in admitting you love pantomimes — oh no there isn’t. And they don’t come more traditional than the story of Aladdin. Genies, lamps, skullduggery and comedic stooges — this is an absolute essential for families at Christmas time. And if you’re looking for the concessions stand, IT’S BEHIND YOU.

Theatre by Erth, Khor Al Makta, December 20 to 26, tickets from Dhs75 available via abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net

Step into Christmas

The Green.ae has loaded up the tinsel cannon is aiming it directly at your festive humbugs. Their Winter Wonderland is running daily from 2pm to 10pm and the announced list of themed activities sounds sufficiently festive as to perform invasive humbug removal surgery on even the most stubborn sort of Grinch. Visitors will be able to peruse German market-style stalls, there will be a full line-up of live music including carol singers, festive food options, free gluewein, gift stalls, game zones and currently not identified but we strongly suspect, opportunities for cheeky knee-top banter with Santa.

Abu Dhabi City Golf Club. Tel: (058) 598 9785, @the.green.ae

Watch an unconventional Christmas movie

Be honest, how many Christmas movies really stand up to the annual rewatch test? You’ve got Elf, Love Actually and The Holiday as the big presents under the theatrical tree — after you’ve unwrapped those, you’re left with the cinematic equivalent of satsumas and itchy socks from auntie Doris. But if you fancy adding a bit of abstract tinsel into your festive film rotation, these are our suggestions for the best Christmas movies that aren’t actually Christmas movies. And we’re not including Die Hard, because that is a proper Christmas movie. You can find our full list here…

Shopping in a winter wonderland

This Friday, Bawabat Al Sharq is opening its Winter Wonderland and it comes with sleigh-load of festive activities for the whole family. Kids can get merry making snowmen, chucking snowballs (“not in the face Aaron”) and wintery showers are likely with snow canons sprinkling down snowflakes from above. Running alongside this is the mall’s end of year sales and a shop & win campaign with the top prize of a brand new Lincoln Nautilus SUV.

Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, Baniyas, Fri to Sun only 2pm to 10am. @bawabatalsharqmall

Head to the desert

Tucked away in a corner of Abu Dhabi’s desert, LIWA Village has emerged from shifting sands to stage a festival showcasing an alluring range of unique entertainment experiences and cleverly curated attractions. Until December 31 visitors can enjoy access to concerts, family activities, shows, rides, arcade gaming, spectacular immersive dining opportunities, engaging demonstrations of Emirati heritage and crafts, eGaming tournaments, souk shopping from top-tier local fashion brands and more. Tickets for the festival, set against one of the most spectacular ‘made-for-Instagram’ landscape backdrops imaginable, are on sale now via PlatinumList, with a starting price of Dhs15.

Get your desert playlist up and head out into the wild gold yonder, specifically to this Google Map location.

Festive fun at The Galleria

The Winter Wonderland returns to The Galleria Al Maryah Island. The whole family will love the Santa meet and greets which take place daily from 10am to 10pm until December 24 on Level 3 Central Kitchens. Guests can also visit The Winter Village which includes a snow globe, ice rink, activity huts and festive movie screenings during weekdays. There’s even a live petting zoo at The Ripe Market. 

The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Tel: (0)2 493 7400. thegalleria.ae 

Visit the Mother of all Festivals

The Mother of the Nation Festival (MOTN) is back in action on Abu Dhabi’s corniche and has now, in response to popular demand, has now been expanded to run until January 1, 2023. It’s an event to celebrate the legacy of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation. And the festivities are expansive, with the grounds  occupying a huge swathe of seafront Corniche leisure space. Conceived and executed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), tickets for the 2022 edition which are on sale via the ticketmaster.ae website and start at just Dhs30. The family focused fun is compartmentalised into six themed zones encompassing opportunities for guests to be entertained, enwisened and to dine out at a deliciously curated collection of pop-up yum-stufferies. There’s a strong thrill-culture balance. And we’re all about those ratios.

Abu Dhabi Corniche, until Jan 1, priced from Dhs30 (access to certain attractions is also chargeable). ticketmaster.ae 

There’s a festive Parade at Yas Marina and Yas Bay Waterfront

There’s a ‘Magic of Winter’ festive blizzard of entertainment currently engulfing these two Yas Island leisure hubs. Beyond all the usual culinary and entertainment wows, visitors can look forward to some very Kringle-inspired creative decorations, a roving parade with circus performances (3pm to 8pm at Yas Marina, 4pm to 9pm at Yas Bay).

Festive fruit

The Ripe Market is back in Abu Dhabi, having recently relaunched in Al Maryah Island’s South Plaza and it’s going daily until Christmas 25. Find all the usual exotic articles of curiosity-piquing allure and the calls and stalls of a dizzying mix of merchants, with an added sprinkling of festive cheer. Those keen on the pursuit of perusal can expect vibrant food and entertainment options, alongside all the covetous craft trinkets and soothing soundtrack of the lapping sea.

4pm to 10pm until December 25, Al Maryah Island’s South Plaza

Christmas Eve (Sat), December 24

Talea by Antonio Guida 

Love Italian food? You’ll love this five-course menu created for the festive season. Tuck into dishes including John Dory with bergamot leaf, and other Italian traditional Christmas favourites.

6:30 to 10:30pm, Dhs650 per person inclusive of a Christmas welcome beverage, additional Dhs300 per person for beverage pairing. 

PJ O’Reilly’s

One of Abu Dhabi’s best loved Irish bars is offering a Christmas craic-er of a seasonal feast, with meat on the fire, in the shade from palm trees, it’s time to rejoice with festive bevies. Ho-ho-pro tip: You can also get a day’s pool pass for Dhs50 for a poolside Yuletide.

Dec 24, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs199 soft Package, Dhs225 house, Dhs275 premium. After brunch house package Dhs125. @leroyalmeridienabudhabi

Garage

The biggest festive brunch in the capital is coming to Garage, with a double edition on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. You can dive into both a Christmas Eve brunch from 7pm till 11pm or a Christmas Day brunch from 1pm to 4pm. Alongside live cooking stations and unlimited drinks, there will be top festive tunes spun by the DJ as well as a surprise appearance from Santa. This can all be enjoyed for Dhs450 with soft drinks, Dhs600 with house drinks and Dhs750 with sparkling.

W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)2 656 0000, marriott.com

Sacci

Westin’s capital-famous Italian restaurant, Sacci is once again holding a special seasonal feast that’s available on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The talented Chef Giovanni Rinaldi, has put together a refined five-course menu that takes you on a tour through the highlands of authentic Italian cuisine. And because it’s the season of giving, your meal also comes with a bottle of Italian wine.

Dec 24 and 25, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs425.

Belgian Cafe Yas Island

There’s a traditional Belgian flavour to the festive feasts on offer at this beloved Euro pub. The three-course meal includes tender beef stew, croquettes, and did somebody yell timber? Because dessert is chocolate log cake. The Christmas tune soundtrack will come from a live singer.

Belgian Cafe at Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas Island, Dec 24 and 25 6pm to 11pm, soft Dhs259, house Dhs359, kids over six Dhs129. Tel: (02) 656 2000, @bbcyasisland

Lexx B

Celebrate the right way with an impeccable spread of festive icons on Christmas Eve. The afternoon before Christmas is a promise of all things merry and bright with delightful dishes and the sensational view of the West Corniche at Lexx B.

Grand Hyatt, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dec 24, Dhs290 soft, Dhs390 house, Dhs490 premium. Dhs150 extra to extended the brunch and enjoy two hours of free flow drinks. 

Amerigos

Santa’s next stop on the festive fun tour is this Latin hot spot. Enjoy Amerigos’ Mexican family-style festive fiesta, ‘Noche Buena Weekend’ — a brunch with a whole lot up of fuego food and entertainment up its chimney. There’ll be live cooking stations, beverages, a live band, piñatas to let all that holiday (inlaw) stress out on, a visit from Santa, and other kid-friendly engagements.

Amerigos at Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas Island, Dec 24 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dec 25 12.30pm to 4.30pm, soft Dhs259, house Dhs359, kids over six Dhs129. Tel: (02) 656 2000, @amerigosyasisland

Sahha

Indulge in a traditional Christmas buffet on the evening before Christmas that offers sugar, spice and all things nice with some of your festive favourites on December 24.

Grand Hyatt, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dec 24, Dhs240 soft, Dhs290 house. 

Filini Garden

Father Christmas and his elves have a cheeky trio of attractions for you on this Italian itinerary-stop. Those taking part in the Filini Garden festivities can also take part in the traditional Italian pastime of tombola, with the chance of winning amazing prizes. On Christmas Eve (Dec 24) there’s an evening meal (6pm to 11pm) appointment with authentic Italian fare, signature beverages and a live singer. Priced at Dhs259 for soft, house is Dhs359, and kids over six are Dhs129.

Filini Garden at Radisson Blu Hotel. Tel: (02) 656 2000, @filinigarden

Annex

A festive brunch is taking place on the Annex Rooftop on Christmas Eve. So, dig out your best Christmas jumper and get ready for a Yuletide brunch with renowned views, a vibrant DJ set, light bites, and house beverages. After the festive fun concludes, move down to Annex Club for a memorable evening.

Annex, The Abu Dhabi Edition, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs245 soft drinks, Dhs295 house drinks, Dhs395 premium and Champagne. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. annexabudhabi.com

LPM Restaurant & Bar

Gather friends and family and indulge in French-Mediterranean treats at LPM Restaurant & Bar. On December 24, Global Executive Chef Adriano will present his curated set menu, featuring foie gras terrine, a seafood tower, salmon tartare with potato wafers and caviar, chicken foie gras ballotine, roasted turbot with artichokes, and langoustine ravioli with truffle.

LPM Restaurant & Bar, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, 6pm to 11pm, Dhs595 food only. Tel: (0)2 692 9600. lpmrestaurants.com/abu-dhabi

Vendôme

An international buffet awaits for the family at Vendome. Little ones can enjoy the dedicated play area and can even meet Santa and walk home with gifts. For adults, there’s live music and plenty of festive decorations.

6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 sparkling 

Martabaan 

The contemporary classic Indian dining venue by Hemant Oberoi is offering five courses featuring the best of Indian cuisine.

6pm to 10.30pm, Dhs350

BBQ Al Qasr

One of Abu Dhabi’s most romantic restaurants is offering up a four-course menu that includes a BBQ wagyu ribeye roast – a must-try for fans of red meat,

6.30pm onwards, Dhs750 for food and a welcome drink, additional Dhs300 per person for beverage pairing. 

The Lebanese Terrace

For fine Arabic cuisine this Christmas Eve, head to The Lebanese Terrace. Besides an array of popular Middle Eastern dishes, you can feast your eyes on the stunning views of the majestic Palace grounds.

1pm to 11pm,

Stills

The Christmas Weekend Daydream Brunch is the star on top of the venue’s festive offerings and drops on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (12.30pm to 4.30pm). It’s ‘stills’ the same awesome brunch, just with a festive twist. Traditional eats, live beats from the International Playboyz, party games, face painting, a bouncy castle and surprise gifts from old mate, Santa and a special performance by elves to delight kids. There’s also a chance to win entry to the New Year Party at Stills. Priced at Dhs229 for soft, house is Dhs329, and kids over six are Dhs89. Those looking to extend festive festivities a little longer can also get free flow pours at an after party between 4pm and 8pm.

Stills at Crowne Plaza, Yas Island. Tel: (02) 656 3066, @stillsyasisland

Christmas Eve Movie Night at The WB

Snuggle up with loved ones on Christmas Eve for a cosy Christmas movie night at the dive-in theatre, The Matinee. Spend the night before the big day relaxing on loungers, watching The Polar Express under the stars. Tasty snacks are available a la carte.

The Matinee, 7pm to 9pm, Sat Dec 24, free. 

Stratos

The night before Christmas, Abu Dhabi’s only tower top revolving restaurant, Stratos is offering the height of festive fun for the supper club crowd. Enjoy the gift of 360 degree panoramic views of the city’s twinkling lights alongside three hours of unlimited dishes from the josper grill and free-flow beverages for just Dhs395.

Dec 24, 6pm onwards. @leroyalmeridienabudhabi

Kuzbara

If mulled wine, roasted leg of lamb, kebabs, and a dark chocolate yule log sounds like your idea of the perfect Christmas Eve, look no further than Kuzbara. Santa will even be taking time out of his busy schedule to pop by and deliver gifts to the children.

Kuzbara, Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft drinks, Dhs455 house drinks, Dhs555 premium drinks, Dhs110 children six to 11. Tel: (0)2 304 7777. @marriottdowntownad

Graphos Social Kitchen

Celebrate Christmas Eve with friends and family with an evening brunch at Graphos Social Kitchen. The spread will include Christmas favourites from around the world, served across 16 live cooking stations. Enjoy traditional dishes such as roast turkey from the carving station or the freshest catch of the day; all served alongside a variety of beverages.

Graphos Social Kitchen, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, 6.30pm to 11pm, Dhs225 soft drinks, Dhs350 house drinks, Dhs95 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)2 208 6900. hilton.com

Sidekicks

Do you like to start the festive season with a dinner on December 24? At the ever-popular Sidekicks, there’s a holiday-themed buffet with international dishes from around the world. From 6.30pm to 10.30pm, fill your boots with dishes from live cooking stations preparing freshly made pastas, pizzas and tasty grills alongside all the Christmas classics. Be sure to save room for dessert, where decadent sweet treats await. Just be sure you’re home in time for Santa to pay you a visit.

Sidekicks, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Sat Dec 24, Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs359 premium, Dhs99 child aged 6 to 12. 

Blue Grill

The final port call of Santa’s round-the-world Yas Plaza itinerary is ‘the Americas’ — a little ‘steakation’, well deserved after all that high-pressure present distribution. On Christmas Eve (Dec 24, 6pm to 10pm), there’s a meat feast on the table at Argentinian steakhouse, Blue Grill featuring premium cuts from the USA, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. The three-course meal, puts tender beef cooked to your preferred ‘cuisson‘ in centre stage, with a selection of seafood and because t’is the season — some deeply indulgent desserts to end on.

Blue grill, Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island. Tel: (02) 656 4155, @bluegrill_yasisland

Le Corniche Dining

This family-friendly venue has everything you need for the perfect festive evening. From Christmas crackers on the tables to a Turkey and trimmings station, carvery station, live BBQ and selection of festive desserts, everyone will enjoy the ambience. Santa will also be stopping by on the night to distribute treats.

Le Corniche Dining, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs285. Tel: (0)2 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

Le Bistrot

Savour authentic French cuisines from the a la carte menu, paired with a selection of wines at Le Bistrot. The bright and modern venue is the ideal place for families and couples looking for an upscale start to their Christmas.

Le Bistrot, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, 7pm to 10.30pm. Tel: (0)55 367 5083. marriott.com

Mykonos

Relish a special four-course festive set menu complemented by a selection of house beverages amidst Christmas decorations. Indulge in sushi rolls, duck confit, as well as Christmas-themed favourites, while DJ Marc plays party hits.

Mykonos, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs299 soft drinks, Dhs299 house drinks, Dhs150 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)50 785 2320. @mykonosabudhabi

Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar

Celebrate Christmas the Italian way, around the table with loved ones, sharing hearty plates and fond memories. While a live band sets the mood, tuck into a feast of traditional dishes that have been given an Italian twist.

Si Ristorante, Saadiyat Rotana, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs345 soft drinks, Dhs475 house drinks. Tel: (0)2 697 0000. rotana.com

Christmas Day (Sun), December 25

Antonia

Saadiyat Island’s authentic beachfront Italian trattoria is offering a special festive themed version of their ‘Nonna Antonia’s Brunch‘ brunch. Taking place between midday and 3pm on the big day diners will be to sample what’s being promised as a Christmas feast with an ‘Italian twist’.

Antonia, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Sun midday to 3pm, soft package Dhs245, house Dhs295. Tel: (02) 667 2554, @antonia.uae

Barouk, Crowne Plaza

Christmas brunch (Dec 25, 1pm to 5pm), but make Lebanese. That’s all Santa wants this year. Enjoy the unconventional double act of turkey and ouzi, accompanied by the soulful sounds of an Arabic singer and keyboard player. The soft package is Dhs200, premium drink option Dhs300, kids between two and six can join in for just Dhs80.

Barouk, Crowne Plaza, Yas Island. Tel: (02) 656 3064, @baroukyasisland

Filini Garden

On Christmas Day (Dec 25), there’s a special seasonal edition of the Garden Brunch (12.30pm to 4.30pm), brought to you in conjunction with Assymetri. This supersized Yuletide banquet includes a big ol’ buffet, live carvery and bespoke beverage stalls. Kids entertainment comes in the form of a magician, face painting and, according to a North Pole insider closeto the What’s On team — there’s rumoured to be a visit from old Babbo Natale (Santa) himself.

And if you’ve been particularly good this year (or at least good at being naughty) you can score an invite to the Christmas Day after-party (4.30pm to 7.30pm), with more signature seasonal sips and a live DJ, all for just Dhs159.

Filini Garden at Radisson Blu Hotel. Tel: (02) 656 2000, @filinigarden

The Oak Room

The famed roast brunch at The Oak Room will be given a sprinkle of Christmas magic on December 25. Guests will enjoy signature Oak Room sourdough and Marmite butter, as well as foie gras torchon-cocoa, raspberry coulis, pears and brioche plus a choice of mains such as roast beef sirloin, lamb pie and turkey, served with all the trimmings.

The Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi Edition, 12.30pm to 5pm, Dhs365 soft drinks, Dhs495 house drinks and Prosecco, Dhs645 Champagne and premium wines. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. oakroomabudhabi.com

Verso Grand Hyatt

Create memories that will last a lifetime at this family friendly brunch on December 25. Have the little ones running around the trattoria while you enjoy all that Verso has to offer on Christmas Day. With face painting, balloon shaping, unlimited ice cream and of course, Santa Claus – the little ones will have a ball – and so will you.

Verso, 1pm to 4pm, Dec 25, Dhs240 soft, Dhs340 house. 

Market Kitchen Christmas Day Set Menu

Fresh from its induction into the Abu Dhabi Michelin Guide 2023, Market Kitchen is pitching to be the star on the top of your Christmas dining tree. The modern American diner is preparing a three course menu, with options on starters, mains and desserts — with a complimentary glass of mulled apple cider or wine.

Dec 25, 6pm to 11pm, Dhs250 (beverage upgrade Dhs150). @leroyalmeridienabudhabi

Rangoli, Yas Island Rotana

Rangoli is proposing a spicy British-Indian fusion based Christmas evening feast this year (6pm to 10pm). Their Taste of Christmas extravaganza includes such tantalising delicacies as Malai Turkey Tikka, Turkey Roghan Josh and more. Soft drinks option Dhs189, house Dhs289.

Rangoli, Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island. Tel: (054) 709 1444, @rangoli_yasisland

The WB Abu Dhabi

Spend Christmas Day in Abu Dhabi at Sidekicks in WB Abu Dhabi with a laidback Christmas lunch. The buffet spread will include holiday favourites, festive entrées, desserts and much more. Plus, look forward to meet-and-greets with renowned Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Robin, who will stop by to spread Christmas joy.

Sidekicks, The WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs140 soft drinks, Dhs70 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)2 815 0000. @thewbabudhabi 

Bord Eau

For Christmas with an elevated atmosphere, head to Bord Eau in Shangri-La Abu Dhabi. Enjoy a five-course French gourmet set menu, available on its own, or paired with a sommelier selection of fine wines.

Bord Eau, Shangri-La Abu Dhabi, 6.30pm to 11pm, Dhs398 food only, Dhs748 food with wine pairing. Tel: (0)2 509 8555. shangri-la.com

Christmas at La Cava

Go all out this Christmas with dinner at this sophisticated wine cellar where you can tuck into a five-course culinary experience on December 25. Taking place from 7pm to 11.30pm, it’s Dhs455 per person including paired wines and whisky.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Tel: (0)2 813 5550, rosewoodhotels.com

49er’s

Big in Abu Dhabi steakhouse — 49er’s, is swapping its cowboy chaps for red and white chimney diving suit this Christmas. And as part of their festive celebrations, they’re offering a special package for the big day. You can get two traditional courses and a drink for just Dhs129. Then kick back and soak up the venue’s famous fiesta spirit.

Tourist Club Area, Dhs129. Tel: (02) 645 8000, 49ers.ae

Christmas roast at Aqua

Nothing quite compares to a traditional Christmas roast shared with loved ones. This year, you can indulge in roast beef and golden Yorkshire puddings on Aqua’s terrace with the backdrop of the Abu Dhabi skyline. From 12pm to 4pm, packages start at Dhs255 for food only, Dhs355 with house beverages and Dhs455 with Champagne.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Tel: (0)2 813 5550, rosewoodhotels.com

Asia Asia

Journey along the Spice Route this Christmas at Asia Asia’s popular brunch. Indulge in seasonal dishes with festive flavours, paired with unlimited beverages and an upbeat vibe.

Asia Asia, Yas Bay, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs400 soft drinks, Dhs500 house drinks, Dhs700 bubbly. Tel: (0)2 235 8663. abudhabi.asia-asia.com

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

Go all out this year at the White Festive Brunch. Feast on a selection of tender roasts and indulgent desserts, while the little ones partake in gingerbread house decorating. The event promises plenty of festive cheer and family togetherness on Christmas Day. Packages vary according to table location.

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, 1pm to 4.30pm, from Dhs455 soft drinks, from Dhs555 house drinks, from Dhs685 bubbly, from Dhs227 children aged four to 11. Tel: (0)2 811 4342. jumeirah.com

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

Horizon restaurant will have a festive barbecue with unlimited carvings and mini burgers on Christmas Day. Guests will enjoy a visit and gifts from Santa, plus children’s activities such as Christmas scavenger hunt, blindfolded Christmas drawings, finger painting, Rudolph mask-making and more.

Horizon, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft drinks. Tel: (0)2 657 0000. rotana.com

COYA

Fancy a Peruvian meal on Christmas Day? Available for lunch or dinner, COYA is serving its a la carte menu as well as a Christmas edition of its Fin de Semana experience. Priced at Dh199 for four courses, guests can enjoy dishes such as slow-cooked beef ribs, grilled corn-fed baby chicken, salmon with miso or crispy potatoes with spicy tomatoes. A two-hour drinks package is also available.

COYA Abu Dhabi, Four Seasons, The Galleria, Dhs199 set menu, Dhs168 house drinks. 02 306 7000. coyarestaurant.com

Grills@Chill’O

The festive spirit will be in full swing at Grills@Chill’O, as you explore the selection of live stations on offer. Expect a turkey and trimmings station, carvery station, live BBQ and festive desserts, as well as live entertainment for the whole family.

Grills@Chill’O, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft drinks, Dhs125 house drinks add-on. Tel: (0)2 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

Flavours

Enjoy a themed international buffet filled with an array of traditional dishes including generous tender meat trimmings, turkey and beef carvings and mince pies. A dedicated kids’ corner will keep the little ones busy while you relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Flavours, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs249 soft drinks, Dhs349 house drinks, Dhs449 sparkling, Dhs125 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)55 367 5083. marriott.com

Le Meridien Village

Explore the huge buffet brunch at Le Meridien Village. Tuck in the holiday season with Christmas favourites with stuffed turkey, juicy confit duck drumstick, and Eggnog cheesecake. Dance and sway with live entertainment as Santa arrives to celebrate with everyone.

Le Meridien Village, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft drinks, Dhs299 house drinks, Dhs100 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)56 688 5361. @lemeridienvillage

West Bay Lounge

The popular Barefoot Brunch will be given a Christmas twist for guests on December 25. The sharing-style brunch will offer a selection of festive dishes, as well as some delicious desserts. Santa will be stopping by to spread joy to all the little ones, while the adults get merry.

West Bay, Abu Dhabi Corniche, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 soft drinks, Dhs495 house drinks, Dhs595 Champagne. Tel: (0)2 692 4375. @westbayabudhabi 

Sim Sim

Tuck into roasted turkey and beef wellington at Sim Sim’s Market Brunch. The lavish spread of international delicacies will be paired with signature beverages, while a live band and a DJ entertain the room. And for the kids, a dedicated area will host a surprise from Santa Claus.

Sim Sim, Saadiyat Rotana, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft drinks, Dhs520 house drinks, Dhs620 premium Dhs195 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)2 697 0000. rotana.com

Palace Terrace, Emirates Palace

Round up your loved ones and head to Palace Terrace to enjoy a Christmas brunch featuring dishes from across the world.

12:30pm to 4pm, Dhs550 soft, Dhs650 house and Dhs750 sparkling 

Images: Provided/Featured hero image Jyo Jon Mulloor via Instagram