Christmas in Qatar 2025: Festive Events, Brunches, Decorations & 10 Things You Might Not Know About Celebrating in Doha
When you think of Christmas, snowy rooftops and frosty air might come to mind — but in Doha, Qatar, the festive season feels warm, glamorous, and surprisingly magical. With golden sunsets, sparkling lights, and joyful expat communities, Christmas in Qatar 2025 promises a holiday full of family fun, elegant dinners, and spectacular decorations.
Even though Qatar is a Muslim country, its multicultural spirit makes room for festive celebrations, and many residents — especially expats — celebrate Christmas with enthusiasm. From snow-themed attractions to turkey brunches and gingerbread workshops, the country turns into a glowing winter wonderland in the heart of the desert.
10 Things You Might Not Know About Spending Christmas in Doha
Let’s unwrap what makes Christmas in Doha such a unique experience — with tips, facts, and must-do activities that’ll make your 2025 festive season unforgettable.
1️⃣ Christmas Isn’t a Public Holiday — But It’s Widely Celebrated
Christmas isn’t an official public holiday in Qatar since Islam is the national religion, but that doesn’t stop people from celebrating. Expats, hotels, and communities organize their own events, church services, and family get-togethers.
💡 Tip: If you work in Qatar, use your annual leave to enjoy Christmas Eve or Christmas Day off.
2️⃣ You’ll Have a Sunny Christmas Day
Forget heavy coats and frozen mornings — Christmas in Doha is warm and sunny! With average highs around 25°C and lows near 14°C, it’s the perfect season for outdoor brunches, beachside dinners, and alfresco parties under palm trees.
🌴 Enjoy beach walks, rooftop dining, or even poolside Christmas celebrations — a true Middle Eastern twist to the holiday season.
3️⃣ You Can Still Have a White Christmas
Yes, you read that right — snow in Doha! If you’re craving that frosty feel, check out:
- ❄️ Snow Dunes at Doha Festival City: Experience real snow from 17 snow guns, slides, and a skating rink.
- 🥶 Subzero at The Pearl-Qatar: Chill in -9°C temperatures while sipping hot chocolate in a frozen lounge.
- 🎡 Lusail Winter Wonderland: A family-favorite outdoor fair with rides, games, and festive entertainment.
4️⃣ No Boxing Day Sales — But Huge National Day Discounts
While traditional Boxing Day sales aren’t a thing here, Qatar National Day (December 18) kicks off major discounts across malls. Expect end-of-year deals, holiday collections, and festive shopping promos at every corner.
Best places for festive shopping:
- Mall of Qatar
- Villaggio Mall
- Doha Festival City
- City Center Doha
- Lagoona Mall
5️⃣ Christmas Trees Are Everywhere
Finding a Christmas tree in Qatar is easier than you think! Real and artificial trees are stocked throughout December — usually right after National Day.
Top places to buy Christmas trees & decorations:
- Naaz Store – Known for festive lights, ornaments, and home décor.
- Daiso Japan Qatar – Affordable gifts, wrapping paper, and Christmas décor.
- Dollar Plus Qatar – Budget-friendly décor and gift supplies.
- Al Rawnaq – One of Qatar’s favorite all-in-one stores for holiday goods.
- Carrefour & IKEA – Offer Christmas trees and ornaments.
6️⃣ You Can Attend Church Services Across Doha
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without mass, and Doha’s Religious Complex in Abu Hamour hosts several.
Popular Churches in Qatar:
- Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church – Services in English, Tagalog, Tamil, Spanish, and French.
- The Anglican Church of the Epiphany – Carols and community gatherings.
- St. George Greek Orthodox, St. Peter & Paul Coptic, and St. James Jacobite Churches – Each holds special Christmas services.
7️⃣ You Can Order Takeaway Turkey — Or Enjoy a Grand Brunch
If you’re spending Christmas in Doha, food is the highlight! Whether you’re dining at home or going out, you’ll find plenty of festive options.
For take-home feasts:
Supermarkets like Carrefour, Lulu, and Monoprix stock frozen turkeys and ingredients. Many five-star hotels — including W Doha, St. Regis, and InterContinental — offer takeaway turkey packages with all the trimmings.
🥂 Top Christmas Brunches in Doha 2025:
- Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Famous for its Grand Staircase tree lighting.
- InterContinental Doha – Mocktails, carols, and lavish dinner spreads.
- Grand Hyatt Doha – Choir performances and beachfront feasts.
- Hilton Doha – Gingerbread displays and festive buffets.
- Meliá Doha – Cozy Christmas brunches and desserts.
8️⃣ The Whole City Stays Open on Christmas Day
Unlike many countries, Doha doesn’t shut down for Christmas. Malls, hypermarkets, and restaurants stay open. So whether you’re shopping for last-minute gifts, enjoying a brunch, or simply exploring — you’ll find plenty to do.
9️⃣ The City Lights Up After National Day
Christmas lights and decorations appear across Doha after Qatar National Day (December 18). By Christmas week, you’ll find:
- Giant Christmas trees in hotel lobbies.
- Twinkling lights along The Pearl and Lusail.
- Festive displays in malls like Villaggio and Doha Festival City.
- Carols and live performances at luxury resorts.
Even if snow isn’t falling, the city truly shines during December.
🔟 There’s Something Magical for Everyone
From gingerbread-making classes for kids to tree-lighting ceremonies for families, Christmas in Qatar 2025 offers countless activities.
Festive highlights:
- Gingerbread decorating workshops
- Christmas fairs and pop-up markets
- Tree lighting events across major hotels
- Santa meet-and-greet sessions
- Holiday concerts and choir performances
Celebrating Christmas in Qatar: A Unique Blend of Traditions
Christmas in Qatar is a cultural fusion — a Western holiday celebrated with Arabian warmth. Expats, tourists, and locals come together to enjoy:
- Festive afternoon teas
- Holiday décor in hotels
- Carols and choir concerts
- Christmas markets
- Luxury dinners with a Middle Eastern twist
Christmas Concerts and Fairs
Music and community spirit fill Doha’s festive nights.
🎵 Must-attend events include:
- “Season of Joy” – by Doha Community Orchestra & Youth Choir.
- “Handel’s Messiah” – performed at the Anglican Centre.
- West Bay Lagoon Festive Market – a Christmas fair featuring handmade crafts, Santa’s Grotto, and kids’ games.
Pro tip: Bring a gift for a charity drive — many markets collect presents for local animal rescues and underprivileged families.
Christmas Food & Sweets
Beyond turkey and stuffing, Christmas in Qatar includes indulgent desserts. Look for:
- Gingerbread houses at Melia Doha and Hilton.
- Christmas puddings, Yule logs, and mince pies at hotel buffets.
- Special pastries and hot chocolate at cafés like Flat White and Café 42.
Travel & Tourism: Flying to Qatar for the Holidays
Qatar Airways offers festive travel deals during December, making it a great time for visitors. Many tourists plan extended stays to explore Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village, and The Pearl decorated for the holidays.
Insider Tip: Book flights early — December is one of Qatar’s busiest tourism months.
Top Family-Friendly Activities
- Lusail Winter Wonderland – Doha’s biggest family attraction during the holidays.
- Katara Cultural Village – Hosts concerts, exhibitions, and festive nights.
- Doha Corniche – Perfect for evening strolls under the twinkling skyline.
- Souq Waqif – Great for souvenirs, tea, and traditional winter drinks.
- Snow Dunes – For kids and adults seeking winter fun.
Festive Shopping at NEXT Qatar
For those looking for luxury gifts, NEXT Qatar offers collections for men, women, and kids — from Christmas jumpers to home décor and perfumes. Their 2025 collection promises exclusive festive deals, perfect for early shoppers.
FAQs
Q1. Do people celebrate Christmas in Qatar?
Yes! Though not an official holiday, expats and Christian residents celebrate with decorations, food, and parties.
Q2. Can I attend church services?
Yes, several churches at Abu Hamour’s Religious Complex offer Christmas Eve and Christmas Day masses.
Q3. Where can I buy Christmas decorations in Doha?
Naaz Store, Daiso, Dollar Plus, Al Rawnaq, Carrefour, and IKEA are great options.
Q4. What’s the weather like during Christmas in Qatar?
Sunny and pleasant — highs of 25°C, lows of 14°C — perfect for outdoor celebrations.
Q5. Is anything closed on Christmas Day?
No, malls, restaurants, and attractions remain open.
Q6. Where can I go for a Christmas brunch?
Try Marsa Malaz Kempinski, InterContinental Doha, Grand Hyatt, Hilton, or W Doha.
Q7. Can tourists celebrate Christmas in Qatar?
Absolutely! Hotels, malls, and markets welcome everyone to join in the festive cheer.
Conclusion.
Christmas in Qatar 2025 is a festive fusion of tradition and modernity, faith and fun, luxury and warmth. From glittering trees and joyful brunches to beach walks and candlelit masses, Qatar proves that you don’t need snow to have a magical holiday.
So, grab your Santa hat, enjoy a sunny Christmas under Doha’s sky, and make your festive memories sparkle in the heart of the Gulf. 🌟🎄
