The festive season brings with it a host of events, cultural celebrations, festivals and more. Peruse our top picks of things to do this December
UAE National Day
đ December 2, 2022 đUnited Arab Emirates
The last long weekend of the year for UAE citizens and residents, the country will celebrate its 51st National Day on December 2. This historic date marks the UAE's formal nationalisation and the establishment of the federal unification of the emirates in 1971. Festivities will be held across public spaces, malls and outdoor areas in the seven emirates, with fireworks shows, flag displays, parades and more.
To book your hotel in the UAE, visit rotana.com
Abu Dhabi Classics
đ December 20, 2022 đAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Continuing the line-up for 2022 edition of Abu Dhabi Classics is the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, with a gala concert scheduled to take pace on December 20 at 8pm at Emirates Palace Auditorium. The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1936 and, today, the troupe ranks among the world's best orchestras. Led by legendary conductor Zubin Mehta, the professional symphony orchestra comprises high-calibre musicians, consisting of Europeâs most talented symphonic players. This is one event not to miss!
To book your hotel in Abu Dhabi, visit rotana.com
Dubai Shopping Festival
đ December 15, 2022 - January 29, 2023 đDubai, United Arab Emirates
The emirate's biggest shopping extravaganza, Dubai Shopping Festival, returns to the emirate on December 15 with a host of festivities, retail promotions, family entertainment, live concerts and more. In this annual celebration of the cityâs world-class retail and tourism offering, shoppers can expect a host of surprises as exciting promotions are revealed and a packed calendar of events takes over the city. Now in its 28th year, DSF will amaze, dazzle and thrill residents and visitors as the city welcomes the world to explore its unrivalled shopping opportunities, life-changing raffles, promotions and sensational entertainment.
To book your hotel in Dubai, visit rotana.com
Impressionism: Pathways to Modernity exhibition
đ Until February 5, 2023 đAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Louvre Abu Dhabi is inviting art enthusiasts to rediscover Impressionist art with its latest showcase titled Impressionism: Pathways to Modernity. In one of the most significant Impressionist exhibitions ever to be held outside of France, pioneering works by Manet, Degas, Monet, Pissarro, Renoir and CĂŠzanne will be on display in the UAE capital for the very first time. The showcase brings together more than 150 masterpieces from the 19th century, including etchings, costumes, film and photography, and highlights how the movement paved the way for the artistic revolutions that were to come.
To book your hotel in Abu Dhabi, visit rotana.com
Dongzhi Festival
đ December 21, 2022 đChina
This time-honoured tradition of celebrating the Winter Solstice in China is referred to as the Dongzhi Festival. It marks the shortest day and longest night in the northern hemisphere, following which daylight hours become longer â a symbol of hope. A host of celebrations and activities are held in the country on this day, while the locals eat delicacies such as dumplings, wontons and rice balls. Traditional activities, such as worshipping the heavens and the ancestors, are also practised.
Art Basel
đ December 1 - 3, 2022 đMiami, United States of America
In the Miami edition of this revered art exhibition, Art Basel will bring together leading galleries from five continents, showcasing significant works by masters of modern and contemporary art. The new generation of emerging stars will also be well represented at this much-anticipated event on the global creative stage. Art Basel's fairs in Basel, Hong Kong, and Miami Beach are driving forces in supporting galleries as they nurture the careers of artists. Aside from the annual fairs in each of these destinations, the organisation supports a host of initiatives to create unique artist-led experiences and strengthen local art scenes.
