With COP28 concluded, Expo City Dubai is set to undergo a magical transformation into Winter City, where Santa Claus takes center stage, emphasizing sustainability and climate awareness in the heart of the festive celebrations.
Commencing the holiday cheer, everyone is welcome to witness the illumination of a towering 52-foot Christmas tree on Friday, December 15, at 6 pm at the iconic Al Wasl Dome, now transformed into a delightful Christmas village.
Expo City reveals that the tree, recycled from the previous year, will be the focal point of the festivities. “Al Wasl Dome is adorned with repurposed decorations and energy-efficient lighting. Throughout the village, visitors can engage in climate challenges, collect stamps, and participate in eco-friendly workshops alongside Santa’s elves.” 
An eco-toy factory offers children the opportunity to craft their own toys from recycled materials while gaining insights into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Eco-Friendly Holiday Experiences
Continuing the COP28 legacy, a plethora of eco-friendly festive experiences aims to elevate climate awareness and advocate for green living. These include Santa’s sustainable house, Mrs. Claus’ bakery, an eco-friendly toy factory, and Frosty’s farmhouse.
Save the North Pole
Young visitors can join Santa on a mission to safeguard the North Pole and its precious wildlife from the rapid and dramatic impacts of global climate change. Activities involve clues, climate challenges, and participation in eco-friendly workshops. Santa’s house is open for guests to explore his sustainable practices, featuring repurposed decorations and energy-efficient lighting.
Mrs. Claus shares tales of preserving polar habitats and imparts tips encouraging young bakers to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
‘Naughty’ or ‘Nice’
A fun activity awaits visitors as they inscribe their names on Santa’s “naughty” or “nice” list—learning that embracing greener lifestyles increases their chances of securing a place in Santa’s good graces.
Santa’s toy factory opens its doors for children to immerse themselves in STEM disciplines while promoting sustainability. Kids can craft their own toys from recycled materials, becoming eco-stewards of the planet.
Insta-Worthy Delights
Every corner of the Christmas village promises Instagram-worthy moments, featuring a chalet-style Christmas market, snow-sprinkled trees, carnival games, and photo opportunities with the reindeer sleigh and the popular robot, Opti.
Carols by Candlelight will grace the evenings from December 20 to 24, accompanied by a variety of food and beverage packages and nightly projection shows.
Winter Timings
Winter City welcomes visitors from 3 pm to 11 pm, with entry starting from Dh20 for adults and free admission for ages 12 and under, as well as Carols by Candlelight ticketholders. Some activities and workshops may incur additional charges. For more details, visit the Expo City Dubai website.