Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates-: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi promises a December like no other with the return of its much-loved festive programme. The holiday celebrations will begin from 6 December with a magical Tree Lighting Ceremony, spectacular dining opportunities, and unforgettable family experiences.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
On 6 December, the Palace Grand Dome will be filled with song, candlelight and festive spirit as part of Abu Dhabi’s most opulent Christmas Tree Lighting. Guests are invited to gather at 6pm to enjoy the breathtaking ceremony whilst indulging in an array of delicacies and entertainment.
Christmas Eve
The beachfront resort offers ample opportunities for festive feasting on 24 December across several of its venues. Guests will find classic seasonal dishes and jingles at Vendôme, where an extravagant buffet awaits priced at AED 350 from 6.30 to 10.30pm. The four-course menu at Talea invites diners to explore the essence of Italian holiday traditions reimagined with modern elegance – all priced at AED 550. Meanwhile, Sand & Koal promises a delightful Christmas Eve soirée with breathtaking sea views, a live DJ, fire dances and a themed sharing-style menu priced at AED 650.
The extraordinary EP Club will be hosting a Christmas Eve raffle with live music and special surprises from 24 – 31 December. Suite guests and M.O Fans can indulge in hot chocolate and Belgian waffles at breakfast or mulled wine and themed cocktails during canapé time as part of the exclusive lounge’s elevated offering.
Merry Christmas
On the big day itself, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi has crafted magical moments and celebrations for all. Michelin-starred excellence and cherished family traditions come together at Talea (AED 550), whilst sumptuous buffet brunching and live entertainment is to be found at Vendôme (AED 380). For those looking to replace snow with sun, Cascades is the perfect option for combining holiday charm with poolside lounging as part of a delicious family-style brunch from 12.30 to 4pm (AED 420). Sand & Koal is also putting a coastal spin on Christmas with its unparalleled beachfront setting (AED 450).
Kids Palace
A haven for young minds to explore, learn and play, Kids Palace will transform into a winter wonderland this December. Younger ones will be entranced by the variety of outdoor nature activities, innovative crafts and yuletide wonders on offer during weekdays from 8am to 3.30pm.
There’s even a new Junior Chef Series during which kids can explore traditional festive recipes from around the world and let their culinary creativity shine. Guided by experts, Little Chefs aged 6 to 12 can create delicious holiday treats on Saturday mornings from 9 to 11am – with each session priced at AED 450 per child. Alternatively, parents can join in on the fun with Chef Duo workshops on Sundays from 11am to 1pm priced at AED 650 per pair.
Festive Sparkle
The spectacular seasonal programme is complemented by exciting fitness and wellness adventures, in addition to exclusive experiences for overnight guests and Lifestyle Club members.
Ahead of the party season, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental is offering exclusive packages for relaxation and rejuvenation from 1 – 31 December. Pampering begins with a luxurious 60-minute Moroccan Hammam combined with a refreshing 30-minute Meso Fusion HydraFacial priced at AED 1,500. Spa visitors can elevate their holiday gifting with a luxurious set by MarocMaroc priced at AED 1,000 – and will receive a complimentary Bloom Element Bath and Shower Oil for each gift card purchase.
Energising the holiday, guests can experience the thrill of Abu Dhabi’s first covered tennis and padel courts. The Fitness Centre is also offering incredible packages for personal training sessions to kickstart guests’ wellness journey ahead of the New Year.
The festive season is all wrapped up at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi.