Christmas traditions, festive dining and lively celebrations return to InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences this December, bringing families and friends together for a memorable end to the year. From the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and a charming market by the marina to Christmas brunches and New Year’s Eve celebrations, the waterfront property offers a full calendar of festivities.
The celebrations begin with the lighting of the hotel’s Christmas tree, followed by the return of the Marina Garden Christmas Market, where festive treats, gifts and live music bring a little Christmas spirit to the waterfront. Across the property’s restaurants, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day offer everything from traditional festive favourites to Lebanese, Brazilian and Mediterranean dining, with live entertainment and special visits from Santa adding to the occasion.
As the year draws to a close, the celebrations take on a livelier rhythm, with New Year’s Eve dinners, live bands, dancing and waterfront festivities welcoming 2027. Whether gathering around the table for Christmas or raising a glass at midnight, InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences offers plenty of ways to celebrate the festive period.
Christmas Tree Lighting CeremonyChristmas celebrations begin at InterContinental Abu Dhabi on 9 December with the hotel’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bringing families and friends together for a festive waterfront evening, this much-loved tradition sets the scene for the celebrations ahead.
Date: Wednesday, 9 December 2026, 5:30pmPrice: ComplimentaryLocation: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Christmas Market at Marina GardenThis festive season, the Marina Garden at InterContinental Abu Dhabi transforms into a charming Christmas market over two consecutive weekends, bringing a little festive magic to the waterfront. Wander between stalls filled with Christmas gifts, handmade crafts and festive treats; pick up something special from local vendors; or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and seasonal favourites as live acoustic music sets the mood. With twinkling lights, festive flavours and plenty for all ages to enjoy, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon or evening by the marina with family and friends.
Date: Friday, 11 December 2026, to Sunday, 13 December 2026, and Friday, 18 December 2026, to Sunday, 20 December 2026Location: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu DhabiFor more information, call +971 55 242 0542
Christmas Eve Dinner
Belgian CaféFor a laid-back Christmas Eve, Belgian Café at InterContinental Abu Dhabi offers a welcoming spot by the marina to gather with friends and family. Known for its hearty European favourites, extensive beer selection, and convivial atmosphere, the much-loved venue will serve festive specials alongside its à la carte menu.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 12pm to 1amPrice: À la carteFor more information or bookings, call +971 50 723 5441
Bistro 81 and Beach CaféMediterranean flavours meet Christmas traditions at Bistro 81 and Beach Café, with two inviting settings for a festive dinner at InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi. Guests can choose the contemporary brasserie setting of Bistro 81 or an al fresco table at Beach Café, with a specially prepared four-course menu served at both venues. A live singer and DJ provide the evening’s soundtrack, while flamenco dance performances add to the entertainment as celebrations continue until midnight.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 7pm to 12amPrice: Bistro 81 – From AED 225 per person; AED 145 per child under 12. Beach Café – From AED 325 per person; AED 195 per child under the age of 12 yearsFor more information or bookings, call +971 50 391 5271
Byblos Sur MerWith its beautiful marina views, warm Lebanese hospitality and lively atmosphere, Byblos Sur Mer offers a distinctive setting for Christmas Eve. The four-time MICHELIN-selected restaurant will serve a special Lebanese set-menu dinner, with traditional flavours and sharing-style dishes taking centre stage. Live singers bring music to the waterfront, completing an evening of Lebanese dining and festive celebrations.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 10:30pm to 2amPrice: AED 250 per person (including soft beverages); AED 400 per person (including alcoholic beverages)For more information or bookings, call +971 50 721 1079
Chamas Churrascaria & BarSwap the traditional Christmas dinner for a Brazilian churrasco at Chamas Churrascaria & Bar, where premium grilled meats and the restaurant’s signature hospitality bring a Brazilian touch to Christmas Eve. Passadores will carve a generous selection of 12 flame-grilled cuts tableside, while a tempting dessert station offers a sweet finish. Live music adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a spirited alternative to the traditional festive feast.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 6pm to 11pmPrice: AED 350 per person (including soft beverages); AED 495 per person (including alcoholic beverages)For more information or bookings, call +971 56 680 2161
FishmarketAn Abu Dhabi institution since 1989, Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional Christmas Eve dinner. Known for its distinctive market-to-table approach, the waterfront restaurant will feature an enhanced selection of premium seasonal fish and seafood for the occasion. Guests can browse the market display, choose their favourites and have Chef Sawai and his team prepare them to their liking.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 12pm to 11pmPrice: À la carteFor more information or bookings, call +971 56 990 8317
Porto GinaAn Italian Christmas Eve awaits at Porto Gina, where a festive four-course dinner brings together traditional flavours, warm hospitality and beautiful marina views. The evening begins with aperitivo before guests settle in for a menu inspired by Italy’s rich culinary traditions. Santa will also make a special appearance with gifts for younger guests, adding a little Christmas magic to the celebrations.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 5pm to 11pmPrice: AED 275 per person (including soft beverages); AED 395 per person (including alcoholic beverages); AED 120 per child under the age of 12 yearsFor more information or bookings, call +971 50 483 7824
SelectionsFamilies and friends can gather for a generous Christmas Eve buffet at Selections, where festive favourites sit alongside an array of international dishes. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant offers a relaxed setting, with live music adding an extra touch of Christmas cheer.
Date: Thursday, 24 December 2026, 6:30pm to 10:30pmPrice: AED 225 per person (including soft beverages); AED 325 per person (including alcoholic beverages)For more information or bookings, call +971 50 564 5420.
Christmas Day
Christmas Mega Brunch at InterContinental Abu DhabiA generous Christmas feast awaits at InterContinental Abu Dhabi, where the Christmas Mega Brunch brings families and friends together for an afternoon of festive dining. An extended buffet features traditional Christmas classics alongside international dishes and seasonal drinks, while a live trio band and DJ set the mood for a lively Christmas celebration. Younger guests can look forward to a special visit from Santa, complete with Christmas gifts.
Date: Friday, 25 December 2026, 1pm to 5pmPrice: AED 450 per person (including soft beverages); AED 650 per person (including alcoholic beverages); AED 950 per person (premium package); AED 285 per child under the age of 12 yearsFor more information or bookings, call: +971 50 723 5441
Byblos Sur MerChristmas Day takes on a distinctly Lebanese character at Byblos Sur Mer, where a festive brunch brings together traditional flavours, warm hospitality and beautiful marina views. The four-time MICHELIN-selected restaurant welcomes Lebanese superstar Sobhi Tawfiq for a special live performance, bringing music and celebration to the waterfront. Santa will also make a special appearance, bringing Christmas gifts and a little extra excitement for younger guests.
Date: Friday, 25 December 2026, 1pm to 5pmPrice: AED 400 per person (including soft beverages); AED 600 per person (including alcoholic beverages); AED 150 per child under the age of 12 yearsFor more information or bookings, call:+971 50 721 1079
Bistro 81 Mediterranean Christmas BrunchLive carving and pasta stations, indulgent desserts and Mediterranean flavours set the scene for Christmas brunch at Bistro 81. Served in the restaurant’s contemporary brasserie setting, the afternoon brings together relaxed dining and lively entertainment, with a live singer and DJ providing the music. Santa will also stop by with a special visit for younger guests.
Date: Friday, 25 December 2026, 12:30pm to 5pmPrice: AED 325 per person (including soft beverages); AED 425 per person (including alcoholic beverages); AED 185 per child under the age of 12 yearsFor more information or bookings, call:+971 50 391 5271
Christmas Dinner
SelectionsGather with family and friends for a traditional Christmas Day dinner at Selections, where a generous festive buffet brings together Christmas favourites and international dishes. With live music setting the mood and plenty of choices for all ages, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant offers a warm, welcoming setting to celebrate Christmas together.
Date: Friday, 25 December 2026, 6:30pm to 10:30pmPrice: AED 225 per person (including soft beverages); AED 325 per person (including alcoholic beverages)For more information or bookings, call +971 50 564 5420
New Year’s Eve Dinner
New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at InterContinental Abu DhabiA five-piece live band, a festive gala dinner and DJ entertainment set the scene for New Year’s Eve at InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Guests can enjoy an evening of dining and live music before the celebrations build towards the midnight countdown, with the DJ keeping the party going into the early hours of 2027.
Date: Thursday, 31 December 2026, 7pm to 2amPrice: AED 550 per person (including soft beverages); AED 750 per person (including alcoholic beverages); AED 950 per person (Champagne package)For more information or bookings, call +971 50 564 5420
Bistro 81 and Beach CaféDressed in white for the occasion, Bistro 81 and Beach Café at InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi invite guests to welcome 2027 with a Mediterranean four-course dinner and an evening of live entertainment. Guests can choose between Bistro 81’s contemporary brasserie setting and Beach Café’s beachfront atmosphere, while a live singer and DJ keep the celebrations going. An ABBA tribute duo adds a nostalgic touch, setting the scene for a lively countdown to the new year.
Date: Thursday, 31 December 2026, 8pm to 1amPrice: Bistro 81 – From AED 425 per person; AED 145 per child under 12 years. Beach Café – From AED 550 per person; AED 260 per child under the age of 12 yearsFor more information or bookings, call +971 50 391 5271
Byblos Sur MerOverlooking InterContinental Abu Dhabi’s private marina, the terrace at Byblos Sur Mer offers a beautiful waterfront setting for the final evening of 2026. The four-time MICHELIN-selected restaurant brings together authentic Lebanese dining, live music and entertainment for a lively New Year’s Eve celebration. With the marina as a backdrop, guests can enjoy the countdown to midnight, then keep the festivities going until 3AM.
Date: Thursday, 31 December 2026, 10pm to 3amPrice: From AED 550 per person (terrace); From AED 1,200 per person (premium indoor packages)For more information or bookings, call +971 50 721 1079
Chamas Churrascaria & BarNew Year’s Eve comes with a Brazilian twist at Chamas Churrascaria & Bar, where an enhanced churrasco dinner features additional premium meat cuts carved tableside by the restaurant’s Passadores. Live music and dancers bring plenty of energy to the evening, while Chamas Bar keeps the party going after dinner, offering a lively spot to raise a glass to 2027.
Date: Thursday, 31 December 2026, 7pm to 2amPrice: AED 550 per person (including soft beverages); AED 750 per person (including premium alcoholic beverages); AED 950 per person (including bubbly package)For more information or bookings, call +971 56 680 2161
FishmarketFresh seafood, waterfront views and live music make Fishmarket an inviting choice for a relaxed New Year’s Eve dinner. The Abu Dhabi institution will offer a premium selection of seasonal fish and seafood, with guests choosing their favourites from the market display and having them prepared to their preference. Live singers and saxophone entertainment will provide the soundtrack to the year’s final evening.
Date: Thursday, 31 December 2026, until 12amPrice: À la carteFor more information or bookings, call +971 56 990 8317
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