As the festive season ramps up and the countdown to Christmas grows ever shorter, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the endless to-dos. Between planning the perfect day, holiday gifting, meeting deadlines, working up until the last moment and still hoping to find time to squeeze in moments of wellness, so your 2025 dreams of ensuring self-care does not fall to the wayside, I can say – you are doing too much! But don’t fret – as someone relentlessly in this position and yet, still an avid wellness advocate and lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve curated a guide to help you navigate a stress-free, joyful holiday season across the UAE. Despite it being my first-ever Christmas and holiday period in the region, I’ve gone to town to find the very-best, yet affordable experience, from indulgent festive treats to wellness moments that will keep you grounded. Here’s everything you need for a magical, mindful Christmas and holiday in the UAE.
1. Breakfast with Santa at Market Kitchen, Le Méridien Abu Dhabi
Start your festivities on a high note with a Santa Breakfast at the stunning Market Kitchen in Le Méridien Abu Dhabi. Picture a morning filled with laughter, delectable food, and seasonal cheer as Santa himself makes a surprise visit. This family-friendly event is perfect for little ones and adults alike to soak in the holiday spirit. You may even bump into a celebrity or two, like we did! Breakfast with Santa every Saturday and Sunday at Market Kitchen
2. Festive Blooms from FlowWow
Nothing sets the tone for the holidays quite like fresh blooms. FlowWow’s gorgeous holiday bouquets, available for same-day delivery, make for the perfect table centerpiece or thoughtful last-minute gift. Whether you prefer traditional poinsettias or contemporary arrangements, these floral delights bring the festive vibe home instantly. If you are apartment living like me, spread some holiday magic and cheer with Flowwow’s Scarlet Grace Wreath — a stunning blend of Nobilis, Pinus, Conifer, and Ilex, adorned with sparkling Christmas ornaments. It’s perfect for creating a festive and elegant holiday display – both inside and outside your home.
3. A Working Lunch from Bodega 3000
Still working? Yup! Me too! Dubai’s Bodega 3000 has you covered. Their vibrant, flavourful menu is available straight to your door via Deliveroo, offering everything from tacos to hearty bowls packed with fresh ingredients. It’s the ultimate way to fuel your productivity without sacrificing taste or convenience.
4. Age-Appropriate Gifts Delivered by LEGO
When in doubt for a last-minute gift, LEGO comes to the rescue. With a constant mounting to do list and life being, well… life, I completely forgot about purchasing Christmas presents for my little one. Not one to spoil him too much, because, hello, he’s now a Dubai kid, I took some notes from his teacher who recommended Lego and ‘Little Play’ as a great way of expanding their critical thinking and hours of play. I hopped on the website and be warned: it takes less than 2 mins to register and secure the goods! Lego UAE’s same-day delivery service ensures age-appropriate, creativity- boosting sets land at your doorstep just in time for the big day. A win for both the young and the young-at-heart, these iconic building blocks make for a timeless gift. Just make sure there are no prying eyes when the delivery shows up super fast or otherwise the surprise will be ruined.
5. Christmas Day Brunch at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen
Dare I say this is controversial, especially coming from a British-Caribbean background, but let someone else handle the cooking this year by booking a Christmas Day brunch at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen in Atlantis, The Palm. With an incredible festive menu that’s as luxurious as it is indulgent, this is the perfect treat for you and your loved ones. Trust me, it’ll be a culinary experience to remember. The holidays are meant to be joyous and reflective for all – make that transition now. You work hard, let the Dubai lifestyle work harder for you.
6. Countdown Celebrations in Nshama Town Square
One of my top decisions this year was making the move to Town Square. Disregard what anyone tells you about living outside downtown – because if you seek community living, Town Square is the only neighbourhood that delivers this authentically. I can attest to that. This family-friendly destination lights up with festive cheer, featuring dazzling displays, seasonal markets, and entertainment for all ages. It’s the ideal spot to soak up the festive atmosphere with your community. Whether Easter, Mother’s Day, Halloween or their local Car Show & Tell Day, this community really shows up for everyone within and outside of it.
7. Recharge at Dryp Hot Vinyasa Yoga
Amid the holiday hustle, I always recommend carving out time to reconnect with yourself and just breathe. Dryp’s Hot Vinyasa Yoga session offered me that respire in a transformative way to de- stress, detox, and realign both mind and body. There’s no better way to sweat out the stress of holiday prep and enter the festive season feeling rejuvenated. I want and need to do this every week. Ask for Heather, she was so kind and inclusive. The room was like none that I have ever experienced before.
Looking Forward to More Float and Flow Breathwork in 2025
As 2024 winds down, I can’t help but feel excited about what’s to come. Next year, Thy.self, in collaboration with Zenith Magazine, will bring more Float and Flow breathwork sessions to the UAE. These events are designed to help you reconnect with your breath, calm your mind, and recharge your spirit—something we could all use a little more of during the festive season.
The key to a magical Christmas lies in balance—embracing the joy and indulgence of the season while making space for wellness and self-care. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, indulging in festive treats, or taking a quiet moment for yourself, this guide is here to ensure your holidays are as seamless and memorable as possible.
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Wishing you a festive season filled with joy, wellness, and abundance. ✨
