If you are thinking of having a change and escaping the grey skies and freezing temperatures of the UK or US this Christmas, why not celebrate the day with holidays in Dubai? The United Arab Emirates boast plenty of ways for you to get into the festive spirit.

For one thing, you will be able to visit the many shopping malls Dubai is famed for, some of which might have decked their halls with decorations for the event. If you are visiting at any point during the lead-up to Christmas, you must make sure to stock up on gifts for friends and family back home, as you will not have to battle the crowds that are usually found on the UK’s high streets at this time of year.

One of the best is the Mall of the Emirates, where you will be able to browse all manner of stalls under one roof. As well as clothes and footwear, you will also find electronic goods and beautiful antiques here, so whatever presents you need to purchase you are certain to find something suitable.

Another popular shopping centre is the Dubai Mall, which is the biggest of its kind in the world based on total area. Indeed, your trip here does not only have to consist of shopping, as you could also visit the Sega Republic area, Dubai Aquarium, or catch a festive film at the cinema.

However, you are sure to want to hit the shops in style, as there are plenty of designer boutiques to explore, while you can also browse toys, electronics, books, homewares and souvenirs, or head to the Gold Souk.

Once your arms are laden with bags, you might like to make your way to the ice rink that is open all year round in the mall. The chill of the ice is sure to remind you of home, while spinning around the rink with your friends or partner will certainly see you getting into the festive spirit.

During your stay, you should also make time to visit the many souks Dubai is famed for. You can pick up spices, textiles, crafts and gold while you are here, and any one of these items could make for a special gift for someone back home.

You can haggle with the store holders on prices, which could see you bagging a bargain, while the sight of the piles of beautiful gold jewellery glistening in the sun is certainly not to be missed.

So far, you may find that your trip has helped you get truly into the festive spirit, so to make this Christmas a little different be certain to hit the beach. The fact that you can enjoy sun, sea and sand in December is sure to make this year’s celebrations stand out from all those that have gone before it.

You could even have a go surfing or water skiing, which is sure to help you build up an appetite ahead of your mouth-watering festive dinner back at the hotel.

When evening arrives, you can head back to the resort you have selected for your all inclusive holidays. You will find that some will be running a special Christmas menu for the occasion, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on the traditional turkey and trimmings. However, you might prefer to break with tradition and tuck into some different culinary delights on December 25th.

Joe Johnson is a travel blogger who is looking forward to taking his Dubai Holidays this year while everyone is stuffing themselves with Turkey!