See the exhibition Custodian of Vacancy: The Iranian Embassy in the USA. The photographer Eric Parnes provides a rare glimpse into a world forgotten by history. Once a hub of American celebrity immersed in Persian culture, the embassy retains a particular rich aesthetic that captures the solitary nature of this institution. From 10am to 8pm, Ayyam Gallery, Gate Village Building 3, DIFC, Dubai, 04 439 2395, www.ayyamgallery.com
Catch Lines and Colors, an exhibition of Arabic calligraphy from 10 Arab and Indian artists, including traditional and contemporary calligraphy. The exhibition shows great diversity in terms of their techniques and trends. From 10am to 9pm, Pro Art Gallery, Palm Strip Shopping Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, www.proartuae.com
Enjoy an evening of spoken-word performances and poetry with the poets Farah Chamma, Rewa Zeinati and Zeina Hashem Beck. Zeinati will also be signing her book Nietzsche's Camel Must Die: An Invitation to Say 'No'. From 7pm, Maraya Art Centre, Al Qasba, Block E, First Floor, Maraya Community, Sharjah, 06 556 6555, www.maraya.ae
Join in the celebrations at Al Hamra Mall. Kids can get their picture taken with a festive backdrop, meet mascots roaming the mall, hear Christmas songs and see the tree in the dome atrium. From 10am to 10pm, Al Hamra Mall, Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah, 07 243 4444, www.alhamramall.com
Explore a winter wonderland at the Souk Festive Market: roasted chestnuts, gingerbread treats, other traditional food and beverages, an eight-metre tall Christmas tree, activities, a giant snow globe, an ice rink, a reindeer rodeo, Santa's grotto and even a North Pole train. From 3pm to midnight, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, www.jumeirah.com
