UAE leaders marked Christmas by sending warm messages of goodwill, expressing hopes for peace, love, harmony, and unity across nations as people around the world celebrate the festive season.
UAE leaders share heartfelt Christmas greetings, calling for global peace and love
As Christmas celebrations unfolded, UAE leaders shared messages of goodwill with residents in the Emirates and communities worldwide marking the festive occasion.
Through social media, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed his heartfelt wishes to those observing Christmas both within the UAE and abroad. He expressed hope that the day would be filled with peace, happiness, and harmony for families and loved ones everywhere.
Dubai’s Ruler also shared his greetings, offering congratulations to Christian communities in the UAE and around the world. In his message, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted his hope that the season would strengthen values of compassion, unity, coexistence, and mutual respect among people globally.
Festive celebrations were visible across the country, with hundreds of worshippers attending Christmas Eve mass on Wednesday, December 24, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubai. The spirit of the season extended beyond Earth as well, with UAE-based astronomers dedicating 35 hours over a month to capture a remarkable image of several celestial formations, including the Christmas Tree Cluster.
Across the Emirates, the holiday atmosphere has been in full swing. Shopping centres, tourist attractions, and restaurants have embraced the season, hosting events and welcoming Santa Claus to delight children and families. Large Christmas trees are being illuminated in malls, while many residents have decorated their homes to match the cool winter weather and festive mood.
In addition, several companies across the UAE have granted internal leave on Christmas Day and, in some cases, Boxing Day. Although not official public holidays, these employer-led initiatives reflect evolving workplace practices, aligning with international calendars and offering employees extra time to relax and celebrate with loved ones.
Beyond the visible celebrations, churches across the UAE reported a steady rise in attendance during the festive period, reflecting the country’s diverse and multicultural population. Special prayers, carol services, and community gatherings brought together worshippers from different nationalities, creating a shared sense of belonging. Volunteers and parish groups worked behind the scenes to manage crowds, decorate venues, and organise charity drives, ensuring that the celebrations remained inclusive and orderly. Many residents described the experience as deeply meaningful, noting that celebrating Christmas in the UAE feels both safe and welcoming, allowing people of different faiths to observe traditions openly while respecting the cultural fabric of the country.
Festive spending has also picked up momentum during the season, with retailers offering themed promotions, holiday markets, and family-friendly activities. Hotels and restaurants introduced Christmas brunches, seasonal menus, and special stay packages, attracting both residents and tourists. Public spaces were adorned with lights and decorations, while entertainment venues hosted concerts and live performances inspired by the holiday spirit. For many families, these experiences have become annual traditions, blending global customs with the UAE’s signature hospitality. The festive period has also provided a boost to the retail and tourism sectors, contributing to year-end economic activity.
At the workplace level, the growing practice of granting internal Christmas leave has sparked conversations about work-life balance and employee wellbeing. Human resources professionals say such initiatives help improve morale and productivity, especially during a busy year-end period. Employees value the flexibility to travel, spend time with family, or simply rest before the new year begins. While policies differ across organisations, the trend reflects a broader shift toward more adaptive and people-focused work cultures. As the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub, these evolving practices highlight its ability to harmonise professional demands with cultural inclusivity.
