DUBAI: With more than 200 nationalities living side by side, it is no wonder Christmas in the UAE is a bustling, festive affair. Christmas trees dot the malls and seasonal jingles blaring from speakers create a celebratory atmosphere for shoppers, while Christmas markets, children’s events and special festive menus can be found across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, the festive season in the UAE is about more than rockin’ around the Christmas tree, with Christians from diverse ethnic backgrounds coming together to celebrate with their families and friends.

Across the Middle East and the Arab world, Christmas is being celebrated by a wide range of communities and broadly respected as a religious and cultural event. In cities, towns…

DUBAI: With more than 200 nationalities living side by side, it is no wonder Christmas in the UAE is a bustling, festive affair. Christmas trees dot the malls and seasonal jingles…