Dubai Festivals & Events Calendar 2026: A Month-by-Month Family Guide
Dubai, a city synonymous with luxury and innovation, is also a vibrant hub of cultural events and festivals. From world-class sporting competitions to dazzling cultural celebrations, there's always something happening in this dynamic city. This 2026 calendar highlights the best family-friendly events Dubai has to offer, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.
January
January is a fantastic time to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather and a host of exciting events.
Dubai Shopping Festival (Late December 2025 - Late January 2026)
Dates: Late December to Late January annually.
What to Expect: A month-long retail extravaganza with incredible discounts, raffles, live entertainment, and fireworks displays. Perfect for families looking to snag great deals on clothing, electronics, and souvenirs.
Where to Go: Malls across Dubai, including The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Festival City Mall. Global Village also participates.
Ticket Costs: Free to enter malls; Global Village entry fee is approximately AED 25 per person.
How to Participate: Simply visit the participating malls and shops. Look for DSF signage and promotional offers.
Insider Tip: Weekday mornings offer the least crowded shopping experience. Take advantage of the VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Hotel Price Impact: High demand, expect hotel prices to be 20-30% higher than off-peak months. Consider hotels in Deira or Bur Dubai for slightly more affordable options, with prices starting around AED 400 per night for a family room.
Dubai Marathon (Late January)
Dates: Late January annually.
What to Expect: A major international marathon attracting runners from around the globe. Family-friendly fun runs and shorter races are also available.
Where to Go: The race typically starts and finishes near the Dubai Mall.
Ticket Costs: Registration fees vary depending on the race distance, ranging from AED 200 to AED 500.
How to Participate: Register online in advance through the official Dubai Marathon website.
Insider Tip: Register early, as slots fill up quickly. Spectators can line the route to cheer on the runners.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate impact. Hotels near the Dubai Mall will see a price increase, but options in other areas remain relatively stable. Expect prices from AED 500 per night near the start line.
February
February continues the trend of pleasant weather and exciting events.
Dubai Food Festival (Late February - Early March)
Dates: Late February to Early March annually.
What to Expect: A celebration of Dubai's diverse culinary scene. Expect pop-up restaurants, food trucks, cooking demonstrations, and special menus at restaurants across the city. Perfect for families who love to eat!
Where to Go: Various locations across Dubai, including Kite Beach, City Walk, and participating restaurants.
Ticket Costs: Free entry to many events, but some special dining experiences and cooking classes may have associated costs ranging from AED 100 to AED 500.
How to Participate: Check the official Dubai Food Festival website for a schedule of events and participating restaurants. Make reservations in advance for popular events.
Insider Tip: Explore the hidden gems in neighborhoods like Satwa and Deira for authentic and affordable culinary experiences.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate impact, with slightly higher prices in areas near festival hubs. Look for hotels in Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) or Dubai Marina, with prices starting around AED 600 per night.
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (Early February)
Dates: Early February annually.
What to Expect: A celebration of literature, with author talks, workshops, and panel discussions. Many events are geared towards children and families.
Where to Go: InterContinental Dubai Festival City.
Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the event, ranging from AED 50 to AED 200.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online in advance through the festival website.
Insider Tip: Check the schedule for free events and workshops. Arrive early for popular sessions to secure a good seat.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact, as the festival is relatively contained. Hotels in Dubai Festival City may see a slight increase. Expect prices from AED 500 per night.
March
March sees the weather start to warm up, but there are still plenty of outdoor events to enjoy.
Art Dubai (Mid-March)
Dates: Mid-March annually.
What to Expect: A leading international art fair showcasing contemporary and modern art from around the world. While not specifically geared toward children, it can be a great way to expose them to art and culture. Some galleries offer family-friendly activities.
Where to Go: Madinat Jumeirah.
Ticket Costs: General admission tickets range from AED 100 to AED 200.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online or at the door.
Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Check the program for guided tours and artist talks.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate impact, particularly in hotels near Madinat Jumeirah. Expect prices from AED 700 per night in this area.
Sikka Art Fair (Mid-March, coincides with Art Dubai)
Dates: Mid-March annually.
What to Expect: An alternative art fair showcasing emerging artists from the UAE and the region. Located in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, it offers a more relaxed and intimate art experience. Often includes family-friendly workshops and activities.
Where to Go: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (also known as Al Bastakiya).
Ticket Costs: Generally free admission.
How to Participate: Simply visit the Al Fahidi neighborhood during the fair.
Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a traditional abra ride across Dubai Creek and a visit to the nearby Spice Souk and Gold Souk.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact, as the fair is relatively small. Hotels in Bur Dubai offer convenient access and affordable prices, starting around AED 350 per night.
April
April marks the beginning of the hotter months in Dubai. Many events move indoors.
Ramadan (Dates Vary Annually, typically starts in April in 2026)
Dates: Dates vary based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
What to Expect: The holy month of Ramadan is a time of fasting and reflection for Muslims. While tourists are not expected to fast, it's important to be respectful of local customs. Many restaurants offer special Iftar menus (the meal eaten after sunset to break the fast). Expect reduced hours for some attractions during the day.
Where to Go: Restaurants across Dubai offer Iftar buffets. Mosques are open to visitors (dressed modestly) outside of prayer times.
Ticket Costs: Iftar buffets range in price from AED 150 to AED 500 per person.
How to Participate: Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly. Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours. Consider experiencing an Iftar buffet for a taste of local culture.
Insider Tip: Ramadan can be a great time to visit Dubai if you're interested in experiencing local culture. Hotel prices are often lower than during peak season. Many hotels offer special Ramadan packages.
Hotel Price Impact: Often lower prices than peak season. Expect deals and promotions on hotel stays. Prices can start from AED 300 per night.
May - September
These months are the hottest in Dubai, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Many events move indoors to air-conditioned venues. This is generally the off-season, with lower hotel prices and fewer crowds. Look for deals on indoor attractions like IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Aquarium, and Ski Dubai.
Dubai Summer Surprises (July - August)
Dates: July to August annually.
What to Expect: A summer-long festival with discounts, promotions, and entertainment across the city. Malls offer special events and activities for families.
Where to Go: Malls across Dubai, including The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
Ticket Costs: Free entry to malls; individual events may have associated costs.
How to Participate: Visit participating malls and shops. Look for DSS signage and promotional offers.
Insider Tip: Take advantage of the indoor attractions and water parks to beat the heat. Consider staying at a hotel with a pool and other amenities.
Hotel Price Impact: Lowest hotel prices of the year. Expect significant discounts and promotions. Prices can start from AED 250 per night.
October
October marks the beginning of the cooler season in Dubai, with temperatures becoming more pleasant.
GITEX Technology Week (Mid-October)
Dates: Mid-October annually.
What to Expect: A major technology trade show attracting industry professionals from around the world. While not specifically geared toward families, it can be interesting for tech-savvy kids and adults. Some exhibitors may offer interactive displays and demonstrations.
Where to Go: Dubai World Trade Centre.
Ticket Costs: Varies depending on the type of pass, ranging from AED 200 to AED 1000.
How to Participate: Register online in advance through the GITEX website.
Insider Tip: Check the schedule for free seminars and workshops. Be prepared for large crowds.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate impact, particularly in hotels near the Dubai World Trade Centre. Expect prices from AED 600 per night in this area.
November
November is a great time to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather and a range of outdoor events.
DP World Tour Championship (Mid-November)
Dates: Mid-November annually.
What to Expect: The final event of the European Tour golf season, featuring the top 50 golfers in the world. A great event for golf enthusiasts. Family-friendly activities are often available.
Where to Go: Jumeirah Golf Estates.
Ticket Costs: General admission tickets range from AED 50 to AED 200.
How to Participate: Purchase tickets online in advance through the tournament website.
Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate impact, particularly in hotels near Jumeirah Golf Estates. Expect prices from AED 700 per night in this area.
Dubai Design Week (Early November)
Dates: Early November annually.
What to Expect: A celebration of design, with exhibitions, installations, and workshops across the city. Many events are free and open to the public. Family-friendly activities are often included.
Where to Go: Dubai Design District (d3) and other locations across Dubai.
Ticket Costs: Free admission to many events; some workshops may have associated costs.
How to Participate: Check the Dubai Design Week website for a schedule of events.
Insider Tip: Explore the design district and discover new and emerging designers.
Hotel Price Impact: Minimal impact, as the event is spread across multiple locations. Hotels in Business Bay and Downtown Dubai offer convenient access, with prices starting around AED 500 per night.
December
December is a festive time in Dubai, with celebrations for both Christmas and New Year's Eve.
UAE National Day (December 2nd)
Dates: December 2nd annually.
What to Expect: A celebration of the UAE's independence, with parades, fireworks displays, and cultural performances. A great opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.
Where to Go: Various locations across Dubai, including Downtown Dubai and The Walk at JBR.
Ticket Costs: Free admission to most events.
How to Participate: Join the celebrations at various locations across the city.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the fireworks displays. Be prepared for large crowds.
Hotel Price Impact: Moderate impact, with slightly higher prices due to the holiday. Expect prices from AED 600 per night.
Dubai Shopping Festival (Late December - Late January)
Dates: Late December to Late January annually.
What to Expect: (See January description - the festival spans across December and January)
Christmas Celebrations (December 25th)
Dates: December 25th annually.
What to Expect: While Dubai is a Muslim country, Christmas is widely celebrated, with Christmas trees, decorations, and special menus at many hotels and restaurants. Christmas markets are becoming increasingly popular.
Where to Go: Many hotels and restaurants offer Christmas brunches and dinners. Look for Christmas markets at locations like Madinat Jumeirah and Habtoor Palace.
Ticket Costs: Christmas brunches and dinners range in price from AED 300 to AED 800 per person. Christmas markets typically have free admission, but individual vendors may charge for their products.
How to Participate: Make reservations in advance for Christmas brunches and dinners. Visit the Christmas markets for festive shopping and entertainment.
Insider Tip: Book your Christmas brunch or dinner well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Hotel Price Impact: High demand, expect hotel prices to be 30-40% higher than off-peak months, especially around Christmas and New Year's Eve. Book well in advance.
New Year's Eve (December 31st)
Dates: December 31st annually.
What to Expect: Dubai is famous for its spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks displays, particularly at the Burj Khalifa. Expect large crowds and traffic congestion.
Where to Go: Downtown Dubai, The Walk at JBR, Dubai Festival City, and other locations with fireworks displays.
Ticket Costs: Free to watch the fireworks from public areas. Restaurants and hotels with views of the Burj Khalifa may charge a premium for New Year's Eve dinners and parties.
How to Participate: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the fireworks. Consider booking a New Year's Eve dinner or party at a restaurant or hotel with a view of the Burj Khalifa.
Insider Tip: Be prepared for heavy traffic and consider using public transportation. Book your New Year's Eve dinner or party well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. Many venues require pre-payment.
Hotel Price Impact: Highest hotel prices of the year. Expect prices to be 50-100% higher than off-peak months. Book well in advance.
Conclusion
Dubai offers a diverse range of festivals and events throughout the year, catering to all interests and ages. By planning your trip around these events, you can create a truly unforgettable family vacation. Remember to book accommodations and tickets in advance, especially during peak season, and be mindful of local customs. Enjoy your Dubai adventure!