All the festive performances taking place in Dubai
Tickets are already available…
Christmas is now just three months away, and if you don’t have a few events in your diary already, then you’re missing out. There’s so much to look forward to in the UAE from winter gardens and festivals, and plenty of Christmas performances in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
A few performances have already been announced, and if you don’t want to lose out on a seat, it’s best you make your bookings now. Do note, bookmark this page as more performances are sure to be announced.
Here are all the Christmas performances in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Dubai
Slava’s SnowShow
When: December 8 to 10, 2023
Where: Dubai Opera
This charming story with its festive setting and playful audience interaction has enchanted audiences since 1993 and truly is a universal and timeless theatrical spectacle. It has received standing ovations from millions and is a must-see for children and adults this December. Truly magical. There are five magical shows throughout the three-day run, so take your pick and book your seats here.
Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dec 8 to 10, Tel: (0)4 440 8888. dubaiopera.com
Dear Santa by Rod Campbell
When: December 8 and 9, 2023
Where: Zabeel Theatre in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Based on Rod Campbell, a popular children’s author festive story, Dear Santa will be a treat for the little ones (ages two to six). It follows the story of Santa’s determination to deliver the best Christmas present to a girl called Sarah. But things go wrong, and he doesn’t get it right. With the help of his cheeky elf, he finally settles on something perfect, just in time for Christmas Eve. Expect a show packed with songs, laughter, and audience participation. What’s more? The audience will get to meet Santa himself after every show.
Dear Santa, Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Crescent Road, The Palm Jumeirah, Dec 8 and 9. Tel: (0)4 453 0000. @artforalluae
ROCK DXB: Xmas Special – Tribute Concert
When: December 9, 2023
Where: TBC
Rock DXB is back with a special Christmas special edition. Taking place on December 9, 2023 the all-star line-up of British and American acts include Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Madonna, Lionel Richie, Bruno Mars and more. Head here to show your interest in the event and be the first to know when tickets go on sale, and when the whole line-up is announced.
ROCK DXB: Xmas Special – Tribute Concert, venue TBC, 7pm to 2am on Dec 9, facebook.com/skylineeventsliv
Magic Phil’s Cirque du Silly
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When: December 9 and 10, 2023
Where: Theatre by QE2
No, that wasn’t a typo. Children love Magic Phil for his silly antics on stage, and he’s heading to the Theatre by QE2 on December 9 and 10 for a show the whole family will love. There will be festive elements to bring the show together for the Christmas season. The shows take place in the morning with one matinee show, so you can get the little ones to bed at a reasonable hour, you know, so they won’t spot Santa sneaking in gifts under the tree. Book your seats here.
Theatre by QE2, QE2, Port Rashid, Dec 9 and 10, theatrebyqe2.com
Handel’s Messiah
When: December 13, 2023
Where: Dubai Opera
In December, Dubai Opera will echo with the tunes of Messiah, the crowning achievement of the renowned composer George Frideric Handel. It was written and composed all the way back in 1741 but its popularity only grew stronger as time passed. The tune is typically not a Christmas one, as it was written for Easter but as the 19th century rolled on, it became extremely popular during the festive season. On December 13, it will be performed by Astana Opera Orchestra and The Festival Chorus, and conducted by Abzal Mukhitdin. Get your tickets here.
Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, 8pm on Dec 13, ticket prices start from Dhs225. Tel: (0)4 440 8888, dubaiopera.com
The Nutcracker
When: December 15 to 17, 2023
Where: Dubai Opera
An enchanting rendition of The Nutcracker is heading to Dubai this December. Brought to you by the Ballet Theatre and State Opera Orchestra of Astana (Kazakhstan), you’ll embark on a magical night set on Christmas Eve at the foot of a Christmas tree in a child’s imagination.
Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dec 15 to 17, Tel: (0)4 440 8888. dubaiopera.com
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Abu Dhabi
The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays
When: December 9 and 10, 2023
Where: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
The Illusionists graced us with their magical appearance back in 2015 and they are returning to Abu Dhabi this year in December with a whole new brunch of tricks up their sleeves. The production will feature some of the most talented and creative magicians from around the world who push the boundaries of traditional magic shows. The Illusionists incorporate technology, comedy, and even… audience participation. Since it is the holiday season, the show will feature magic with a festive twist. Ticket prices start from Dhs95 and are available here.
The Illusionists: Magic of The Holidays, Etihad Arena Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Dec 9 and 10, prices start from Dhs95. Tel: 600 511115. @etihadarena.ae
Bookmark this page as more festive performances will be announced in the next few weeks
Images: Social/Supplied