From the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Marina Garden Christmas Market to festive dining and live entertainment, December brings a full calendar of celebrations.
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.
A Mediterranean Christmas Eve at Bistro 81 and Beach Café
Thursday, 24 December 2026 | 7pm to 12am
Mediterranean 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.
AED 225 per person (including soft beverages)
AED 325 per person (including house alcoholic beverages)
AED 425 per person (including premium alcoholic beverages)
AED 115 per child aged 6 to 12 years
Christmas Brunch at Bistro 81 and Beach Café
Friday, 24 December 2026 | 12:30pm to 5pm
Live 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.
AED 275 per person (including soft beverages)
AED 375 per person (including house alcoholic beverages)
AED 475 per person (including premium alcoholic beverages)
AED 135 per child aged 6 to 12 years
NYE at Bistro 81 and Beach Café
Thursday, 31 December 2026 | 8pm to 1am
Dressed 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.
AED 325 per person (including soft beverages)
AED 425 per person (including house alcoholic beverages)
AED 550 per person (including premium alcoholic beverages)
AED 145 per child aged 6 to 12 years
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