If you thought Abu Dhabi had already reached peak festive fabulousness, The Galleria Al Maryah Island just said, “Hold my hot chocolate.” Winter Wonderland is back — bigger, brighter, and cheekier than ever — proving once again that the capital knows how to celebrate in serious style. With a 12-metre Christmas tree, a sparkling fairground, and the UAE’s first-ever AI elf influencer (yes, really), this festive takeover is basically December’s main character energy.
Running until 26 December at the North Atrium, daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, this year’s edition isn’t just an event — it’s a cultural moment. Expect immersive décor, new installations, and an expanded programme ready to welcome over 17,000 visitors. Consider it the city’s ultimate holiday glow-up.
Event Details
Location: North Atrium (Level G)
Dates: 6–26 December
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
A Fresh Spin on Festive Tradition
Winter Wonderland has been completely reimagined for 2025, with installations created exclusively for The Galleria. The layout is open and accessible, the décor is fully immersive, and every corner feels like a Christmas card came to life. Even the ramp access and wider walkways have been thoughtfully designed so everyone can join the fun without squeezing past snowflakes and strollers.
The festivities kicked off on 6 December with Santa himself lighting the giant tree — a towering beauty that casts a warm golden glow on the entire atrium. Adding to the drama this year: a six-metre rising hot-air balloon and a brand-new Christmas countdown installation. It’s theatre, nostalgia, and modern flair all rolled into one very sparkly package.
Santa’s Winter Fair: A Classic… with Upgrades
At the heart of it all sits Santa’s Winter Fair, the beloved family zone that’s back with more games, more space, and way more excitement. Kids can dive into creative activity stations and festive fair games, including:
- Cloud Catching
- Letters to Santa
- Snowball Toss
- Antler Toss
- Arts & Crafts
- Spin & Win
- Photo ops with the Great Pine Tree
And yes — Santa returns for his sixth magical year inside Santa’s Grotto, open from 6–24 December. Expect guided visits, Polaroid photos, and festive goodies that will make even grown-ups feel like kids again.
Meet Elva: The UAE’s First AI Elf Influencer
You know Abu Dhabi loves a trend — and The Galleria just dropped its cutest one yet. Enter Elva, the mall’s exclusive AI elf influencer who’s charming, quirky, and built for today’s digital-first families. She’s playful, imaginative, and adds a modern twist to classic storytelling. If Santa is tradition, Elva is the TikTok generation’s North Pole upgrade.
Shop Smart, Earn Big with Darna Rewards
It wouldn’t be a festive celebration without some retail magic. This year, Darna Rewards by Aldar joins the holiday celebrations for the first time. Until 14 December, shoppers earn 15% back at select luxury boutiques — basically the universe’s way of saying, “Go ahead, spoil everyone, including yourself.”
Contact & Location
Phone: +97124937400
