From immersive markets to cosy food stalls and handmade crafts, here are some of the most festive places to soak up the season.

Winter City at Expo City Dubai: a seasonal experience like nowhere else

From 8 to 31 December, Al Wasl Plaza transforms into The Land of the Candy Cane Comet, a vibrant red-and-white world where stories come to life and families immerse themselves into a playful winter universe.

Explore Sugarplum Land, Nutcracker Land and Reindeer Academy, craft handmade treats at Mrs Claus' Bakery, send letters to Santa, catch daily tree-lightings, enjoy magical soft snowfall and watch festive films - all included with a single ê 50 ticket.

The story peaks during Carols by Candlelight (20-24 December), when the Candy Cane Comet dims and children help to bring back its glow in one of the season's most magical moments.

What to try: Warm up with Marsh'n'mallow's gooey marshmallow cups and hot chocolate, try Bake My Day's buttery pastries and Christmas-morning cookies, or opt for Korean street food from Nirvana by Meokja, flavour-packed tacos from Maiz Tacos and comfort food from Wayback Burgers and Salt.

What to shop: An array of artisanal crafts - plus treats for Santa's hard-working reindeer.

With meet and greets with Mr and Mrs Claus, a Reindeer Academy obstacle course for kids to "earn their antlers" and an elf on the shelf hunt, Winter City brings imaginations to life, allowing the season to shine brighter than ever.

Tickets for Winter City and Carols by Candlelight are available on Platinumlist.

Top winter markets around the world to visit this season

Winter Wonderland - London, UK

Why go: Big energy, big experiences and a little bit of everything.

What to try: Yorkshire pudding wraps, hot chocolate mountains, toasted marshmallows and classic mince pies.

What to shop: Handcrafted ornaments, wool scarves, British artisan gifts and quirky stocking fillers.

With rides, games, performances and rows of charming wooden stalls, Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is a full-day festive adventure.

Vienna Winter Market - Vienna, Austria

Why go: A fairytale setting backed by centuries of tradition.

What to try: Warm Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancakes), punch variations, roasted chestnuts and Viennese pastries.

What to shop: Hand-blown glass, traditional Austrian wooden toys, intricate candles and local handicrafts.

Set against the glowing Rathaus (City Hall), Vienna's market combines elegance and warmth - perfect for leisurely browsing and cosy winter evenings.

Tallinn Winter Market - Tallinn, Estonia

Why go: One of Europe's most atmospheric medieval squares.

What to try: Gingerbread shaped like local landmarks, black bread with mulled jam and hearty Estonian stews.

What to shop: Wool knitwear, artisan ceramics, handmade soaps and Baltic amber jewellery.

With snow-dusted rooftops and carollers echoing through cobblestone streets, Tallinn's market feels like stepping into a winter storybook.

Tokyo Midtown Market - Tokyo, Japan

Why go: A fusion of Japanese precision and European festive charm.

What to try: Matcha hot chocolate, mochi-filled pastries, yakitori skewers and seasonal strawberry cakes.

What to shop: Delicate paper crafts, miniature ornaments, ceramics and Japanese design-led gifts.

Illuminations, performances and beautifully curated stalls make this one of the most unique festive markets in Asia.

Bryant Park Winter Village - New York, USA

Why go: Skyscraper views, artisan shopping and non-stop energy.

What to try: Pretzels, hot apple cider, pierogis, mini doughnuts and winter-themed artisanal coffees.

What to shop: Boutique jewellery, handmade candles, custom prints and quirky NYC-themed gifts.

With its iconic ice rink and lively pop-up stalls, Bryant Park delivers a perfect mix of city buzz and festive charm.

Expo City Dubai: A city designed for everyone

UAE National Day: celebrating 54 years of unity and heritage

Local innovators tackle environmental challenges with smart tech