Those looking to experience an opulent Christmas can check out Burj Al Arab's seasonal offerings.
The sail-shaped Dubai hotel has set up a Santa's Grotto in its experience suite on the 25th floor, where children can meet the big man himself.
The seasonal experience is built into the venue's Inside Burj Al Arab tour, which is typically available year-round with various packages, each highlighting a unique aspect of the hotel.
The 90-minute family-friendly tour has been tweaked until after December 25 to reflect the Christmas spirit, with the swanky hotel adorned with themed decorations. Tickets are priced at Dh850 for a family of four, with two adults and two children.
Groups can also access the al fresco Uma Lounge overlooking the Arabian Gulf, and will enjoy a festive drink and Santa milkshake for children, who will also get to take home a Christmas gift.
Burj Al Arab's guided tours highlight the building's history, giving guests a glimpse of never-before-seen design elements, including early hand-drawn sketches. A stroll through the halls alone reveal a massive Swarovski crystal ceiling, cornered by interiors embellished with 24k gold.
Winter night out at Gilt
After the family-friendly fun as part of the Christmas-themed tour, head to Gilt on the 27th floor to step inside another grotto-themed venue. The bar, which has a minimum spend of Dh200, has been transformed into a winter wonderland. This will be in place until January 7, complete with festive delights and seasonal drinks.
On the menu are a smoked salmon platter, foie gras with strawberry and chamomile, panettone with vanilla and citrus zest ice cream and an assortment of bite-sized Christmas desserts.
Festive beats are spun by a resident DJ playing from Wednesday to Saturday.
Christmas tree lighting in Abu Dhabi and Dubai — in pictures
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The Christmas tree at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Santa Claus and his helpers by the Christmas tree at Emirates Palace. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Santa Claus greets children at Emirates Palace. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Families eagerly await the lighting of the Christmas tree. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Musicians play Christmas songs. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
People take photos by the tree. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Families take photos at Emirates Palace. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Visitors snap photos at the Christmas photo booth. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
The Christmas display at Emirates Palace. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
Santa Claus greets children during the event. Khushnum Bhandari / The National -
People gather for the Expo City Dubai Christmas tree lighting at Al Wasl Plaza, Dubai. Pawan Singh / The National -
Santa appears at the tree-lighting ceremony. Pawan Singh / The National -
Santa's helpers show up for the tree-lighting event. Pawan Singh / The National -
Visitors flock to the Expo City Dubai Christmas event. Pawan Singh / The National -
Santa and Mrs Claus attend the event at Al Wasl Plaza. Pawan Singh / The National -
Santa waves to the crowds. Pawan Singh / The National -
The Expo City Dubai Christmas tree-lighting event in Al Wasl Plaza. Pawan Singh / The National -
Giant gingerbread men interact with visitors during the event. Pawan Singh / The National -
Visitors view the giant Christmas tree. Pawan Singh / The National
