World’s Best Tourist Attractions to Visit in December

December is one of the best months to travel from the UAE. The holidays, pleasant weather, festivals, and celebrations make it a much-awaited month to enjoy with your family and plan a trip. It’s a holiday season with long weekends around the UAE National Day, Christmas, and New Year, so you can plan a trip to the most beautiful destinations around the world.

In December, whether you want snowy Christmas markets, sunny tropical beaches, or family-friendly adventures, there are plenty of best places to visit in December from Dubai. We have covered all such winter destinations to help you decide which one you prefer the most.

Europe is magical in December, with fairy lights, Christmas markets, and snowy landscapes.

Switzerland is the ultimate December escape for UAE residents craving snow. Famous for its ski resorts and festive markets, the country feels like a postcard during winter.

• What to Do & See: Ski in Zermatt, visit Zurich and Lucerne Christmas markets, ride the Glacier Express.
• What to Eat: Cheese fondue, raclette, Swiss chocolate.
• Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.
  

Austria in December is all about festive spirit and snowy peaks. Vienna’s Christmas markets are world-famous, while Innsbruck offers Alpine adventures.

• What to Do & See: Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna’s opera houses, skiing in Innsbruck.
• What to Eat: Sachertorte, Wiener Schnitzel.

Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

France blends romance with festive celebrations. Paris shines with Christmas lights, while Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas.”

• What to Do & See: Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées lights, Strasbourg Christmas market.
• What to Eat: Croissants, escargot, mulled wine.

Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Germany is the birthplace of Christmas markets, making it a must-visit in December. From Berlin to Munich, every city glows with festive cheer.

• What to Do & See: Nuremberg and Munich markets, Berlin landmarks, Black Forest trails.
• What to Eat: Bratwurst, pretzels, gingerbread.

Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Prague turns into a winter fairytale with its medieval streets and festive squares. Perfect for couples and families alike.

• What to Do & See: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square Christmas market.
• What to Eat: Trdelník (chimney cake), goulash.
• Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Hungary is one of Europe’s most charming December destinations, with Budapest at its heart. What makes it even more special is its connection to the classic tri-city tour of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Three capitals that are close together and perfect for a week-long winter holiday from Dubai.

• What to Do & See: Budapest Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square, Advent Feast at St. Stephen’s Basilica, Széchenyi Thermal Baths or Gellért Baths, Danube River cruise,
• What to Eat: Gulyás (goulash stew), Kürtőskalács (chimney cake), Lángos (fried dough with toppings), and mulled wine from the markets.
• Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Asia offers both snowy escapes and sunny tropical getaways, all within short flights from Dubai.

Just 3 hours from Dubai, Georgia offers a mix of snow, mountains, and vibrant culture. Perfect for a quick December escape.

• What to Do & See: Tbilisi Old Town, ski in Gudauri, sulfur baths.
• What to Eat: Khachapuri, khinkali dumplings.

Visa Requirements: Visa-on-arrival for UAE residents.

December is peak season in the Maldives with sunny skies and turquoise waters. Ideal for honeymoons or relaxing holidays.

• What to Do & See: Snorkeling, diving, and private island resorts.
• What to Eat: Fresh tuna, coconut curries.
• Visa Requirements: Visa on arrival.

Suggested Read: Visa on Arrival Destinations for UAE Residents

Thailand combines culture, beaches, and nightlife. December’s cool weather makes it ideal for exploring.

• What to Do & See: Bangkok temples, Chiang Mai lantern festival, Phuket beaches.
• What to Eat: Pad Thai, mango sticky rice.
• Visa Requirements: Thailand E-visa

Also Check: Thailand Tour Packages from Dubai

Armenia, just a short flight from Dubai, is a hidden gem in December. With snow in Yerevan and mountain villages, Armenia is ideal for history lovers and winter enthusiasts.

• What to Do & See: Explore Yerevan’s Republic Square, ski at Tsaghkadzor, visit Lake Sevan, and ancient monasteries.
• What to Eat: Khorovats (barbecue), lavash bread, dolma.
• Visa Requirements: E-visa / Visa on arrival and Visa-free options are available for different nationalities based on their passports. Contact Travnook for the exact details.

Azerbaijan is a unique mix of East and West. In December, Baku shines with festive lights, while Gabala offers snow-covered mountains for skiing.

• What to Do & See: Stroll along Baku Boulevard, explore the Flame Towers, ski in Shahdag, and visit Gobustan’s mud volcanoes.
• What to Eat: Plov (pilaf), kebabs, and pakhlava.
• Visa Requirements: E-visa and visa on arrival available for UAE residents.

Suggested Read: Evisa Countries for UAE Residents

Indonesia is one of the most travelled destinations among UAE residents. Destinations like Bali and Lombok are perfect for a December getaway from Dubai. It’s a great choice for UAE residents looking for relaxation, adventure, and nature all in one trip.

• What to Do & See: Bali’s beaches, Ubud’s rice terraces and monkey forest, Komodo National Park, and trek Mount Batur.
• What to Eat: Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay skewers, Rendang (spicy beef stew), and Pisang Goreng (fried banana).
• Visa Requirements: UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an Indonesian e-visa before traveling.

These destinations are safe, entertaining, and packed with activities for kids and families.

Singapore is perfect for families with its attractions, cleanliness, and theme parks.

• What to Do & See: Universal Studios, Night Safari, Gardens by the Bay.
• What to Eat: Chili crab, satay, Hainanese chicken rice.
• Visa Requirements: A Singapore E-visa is required.

UK comes alive in December with festive lights, shopping, and winter markets.

• What to Do & See: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Harry Potter Studio, London Eye.
• What to Eat: Fish & chips, mince pies, mulled wine.
• Visa Requirements: UK visa required. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

With its rich history and family-friendly attractions, Turkey is a great option for December.

• What to Do & See: Hagia Sophia, Cappadocia hot air balloons, Grand Bazaar.
• What to Eat: Doner kebab, baklava.
• Visa Requirements: Turkey visa. For more details, contact Travnook.

Malaysia offers city excitement and beach relaxation, making it family-friendly.

• What to Do & See: Kuala Lumpur towers, Langkawi beaches, Legoland.
• What to Eat: Nasi lemak, laksa, satay.
• Visa Requirements: Malaysia E-visa

Japan mixes cultural heritage with fun experiences like Disneyland, making it perfect for kids and adults.

• What to Do & See: Tokyo Disneyland, Kyoto temples, Sapporo winter festivals.
• What to Eat: Sushi, ramen, takoyaki.
• Visa Requirements: A Japan E-visa is required.

For couples, December is perfect for dreamy escapes, from snowy cities to tropical islands.

Italy is timelessly romantic, with festive Christmas lights adding extra magic in December.

• What to Do & See: Gondolas in Venice, Rome landmarks, and Florence art.
• What to Eat: Pizza, pasta, tiramisu.
• Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Seychelles offers privacy and stunning beaches, ideal for honeymoons.

• What to Do & See: Anse Lazio, island hopping, and snorkeling.
• What to Eat: Grilled fish, Creole curries.
• Visa Requirements: Visa-free.
  

Also Read: Top Visa-Free Destinations for UAE Residents

Cyprus combines history, culture, and stunning coastlines, making it perfect for couples.

• What to Do & See: Troodos Mountains, Paphos ruins, seaside promenades.
• What to Eat: Halloumi, souvlaki.
• Visa Requirements: A Cyprus visa is required. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Morocco offers an exotic romantic vibe with deserts, palaces, and colorful souks.

• What to Do & See: Marrakesh markets, Sahara Desert camel rides, Atlas Mountains.
• What to Eat: Tagine, couscous, mint tea.
• Visa Requirements: Sticker visa or Morocco E-visa.

Spain blends history, nightlife, and festive spirit, making it a great romantic destination in December.

• What to Do & See: Barcelona’s Gaudí landmarks, Madrid museums, Seville flamenco shows.
• What to Eat: Tapas, churros, paella.
• Visa Requirements: Schengen visa. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

Also Read: How to Apply for a Spanish Visa from Dubai

December offers a vast travel opportunities for UAE residents to enjoy the winter holidays. From scenic European destinations in December, family vacations to romantic getaways, these best places to visit in December guarantee unforgettable memories.

We at Travnook help you plan your unforgettable December trip to your favourite place. Contact us for international visa assistance, tour packages, flight and hotel booking, or any other travel-related service in Dubai. We take the complexity so that you can enjoy your holidays.

1. What are the nearest countries to visit in December near Dubai?

Some of the most popular countries to visit near Dubai in December include Georgia, the Maldives, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkey. These destinations are within 3 to 6 hours of flight time and offer everything from snow and mountains to tropical beaches.

2. Do UAE residents need visas for European destinations in December?

Yes, European destinations in December require a Schengen visa for UAE residents. Countries like Switzerland, Austria, France, Germany, and Italy are in the Schengen zone. It’s recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.

3. What are the best family-friendly destinations to visit in December from Dubai?

For families, top options include Singapore (theme parks and zoos), London (Christmas festivities), Turkey (history and adventure), Malaysia (city + beaches), and Japan (Tokyo Disneyland & snow festivals). These destinations offer activities for kids and adults alike.

4. Which destinations are best for couples and honeymoons in December?

The most romantic countries in December are Indonesia, Seychelles, the Maldives, Italy, Cyprus, and Morocco. They offer a mix of beach escapes, cultural charm, and exotic adventures perfect for honeymoons or anniversaries.

5. How long is the flight from Dubai to popular December destinations?

• Georgia: ~3 hours
• Maldives: ~4 hours
• Thailand: ~6 hours
• Switzerland: ~7 hours
• London: ~8 hours

6. What are the best budget-friendly destinations to visit in December from Dubai?

For affordable options are Georgia, Turkey, Armenia, Indonesia and Thailand are great choices. They offer cheaper flights and accommodation.

7. What festivals and events can UAE residents enjoy abroad in December?

• Europe: Christmas markets in Hungary, Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic.
• UK: Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, London.
• Thailand: Chiang Mai Lantern Festival.
• Japan: Sapporo Winter Illumination Festivals.