It’s that time of year when we have free rein to eat, drink and be merry. Here’s where to spend the big day in the capital…

Le Vendome

The most palatial Christmas spread in town and probably the hottest brunch ticket in Abu Dhabi on Christmas Day. Tables at Le Vendome will brim with all your favourite Christmas foods from around the world.

Emirates Palace, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, from Dhs450 with soft drinks. Tel: (02) 660 9000. kempinski.com

Cafe Milano

Italian-style family Christmas with a selection of antipasti, pasta featuring house-made tortellini stuffed with capon bollito and followed by three varieties of mains including pan-seared sea bass and roasted lamb shank. All wrapped up with gelato and a selection of pastries.

Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, from Dhs300 to Dhs420. Tel: (02) 333 2222. cafemilano.ae

Sofra Bld

Packed with sumptuous food and lively activities for children and adults alike, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri’s Polar Christmas Day Brunch is one of the busiest locations in the capital.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, 1pm to 4pm, from Dhs345. Tel: (02) 509 8555. shangri-la.com

Dine

After the gifts have been opened, head to Dine at the Aloft hotel, where Christmas is just getting started. Featuring a full buffet offering Christmas favourites, including roast beef, turkey, stuffing, pudding, Christmas cake and more.

Aloft Hotel, 12pm to 3pm, from Dhs199 for buffet and soft drinks. Tel: (02) 654 5193. marriott.com

The Marina Christmas Brunch

The Marina Christmas Brunch provides access to all the Intercontinental Abu Dhabi’s outlets, including pan-Asian from Cho Gao, Brazilian churrascaria at Chamas, and Italian at Circo.

Intercontinental Abu Dhabi, 12pm to 4pm, from Dhs275. Tel: (800) 423 463. abudhabi.intercontinental.com/festiveseason

The Scene

A five-course meal of British gastro dishes that have proven extremely popular at the Dubai Marina location. Think gooey brie and camembert, succulent beef cheeks, and a proper roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

Yas Marina, Yas Island, from Dhs275 to Dhs550, children 7 to 12 Dhs99, under 6 free. @thesceneauh

Sim Sim

The Market Brunch at the new Saadiyat Rotana has it all, including whole lobsters that can be grilled and delivered to your table, a special VIP drinks area and some of the best – and most inventive – desserts around.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort, 1pm to 4pm, from Dhs335 with soft drinks, children 6 to 11 Dhs165. Tel: (02) 697 0000. rotana.com

Mr Miyagi’s

Step out of tradition for the all-singing, all-dancing Wok & Ho Ho Ho brunch, with five courses inspired by Indonesian cuisine spread over three very merry hours. For entertainment, there’s house band the Karaoke Superstars, plus games, shows and dance contests.

Yas Marina, Yas Island, from Dhs190 to Dhs290. @MrMiyagisAuh

Nahaam

The perfect place for large family gatherings and those dining with little ones, this Christmas Brunch at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers features seafood grilled to order, plus a saxophone player creating that festive feel. There are gorgeous water views and plenty of activities to keep the little ones engaged.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs395 to Dhs575, children 4 to 11 Dhs150, under 4 free. Tel: (02) 811 5666. jumeirah.com

Oak Room

New boutique hotel The Abu Dhabi Edition has three signature restaurants created by Tom Aikens, notable for being the youngest chef ever to have been awarded two Michelin stars. Be the first of your friends to head to Oak Room, a traditional English steakhouse.

Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi Edition. Tel: (02) 208 0000. editionhotels.com

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