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How to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Dubai: Best Dining & Events

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, of course, a delicious feast! If you’re in Dubai and wondering how to celebrate this beloved holiday, you’re in luck. The city offers a variety of options, from lavish Thanksgiving dinners at top restaurants to cozy home celebrations with a perfectly roasted turkey. Whether you're an expat missing home traditions or simply love a good feast, here's how you can enjoy Thanksgiving in Dubai in style.

Table of Contents

1. Thanksgiving in Dubai: What to Expect
2. Top Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Dinner
3. Where to Order a Turkey Takeaway in Dubai
4. Hosting Thanksgiving at Home
5. Thanksgiving-Themed Events & Gatherings
6. Pro Tips for a Memorable Thanksgiving in Dubai
7. FAQs About Thanksgiving in Dubai

1. Thanksgiving in Dubai: What to Expect

Dubai is home to a large expat community, including many Americans and Canadians who celebrate Thanksgiving. While it’s not a public holiday in the UAE, many restaurants, hotels, and private clubs offer special Thanksgiving menus and themed events. You’ll find everything from traditional turkey dinners to creative Thanksgiving brunches, making it easy to celebrate no matter where you are in the city.

2. Top Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Dinner

Several restaurants and hotels in Dubai offer special Thanksgiving feasts with all the traditional fixings. Here are some top spots to consider:

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai

• Offers a luxurious Thanksgiving buffet with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and desserts.
• Live music and a festive atmosphere.

The Eloquent Elephant (Taj Dubai)

• Classic American-style Thanksgiving dinner with a cozy, pub-like ambiance.
• Includes turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.

Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay

• A British twist on Thanksgiving with a gourmet turkey roast.
• Family-friendly dining experience.

Bull & Bear (Waldorf Astoria DIFC)

• Upscale dining with an elegant Thanksgiving menu.
• Signature cocktails and live entertainment.

Pro Tip: Many restaurants require advance bookings for Thanksgiving dinners, so reserve your table early!

3. Where to Order a Turkey Takeaway in Dubai

If you prefer to celebrate Thanksgiving at home without the hassle of cooking, many hotels and supermarkets offer turkey takeaway options.

Best Places to Order a Thanksgiving Turkey in Dubai:

• Atlantis The Palm – Gourmet turkey with all the trimmings.
• Carrefour & Spinneys—Affordable pre-cooked turkey options.
• Madinat Jumeirah—High-end turkey takeaway with premium sides.
• Jones the Grocer – Offers organic and free-range turkeys.

Pro Tip: Place your turkey order at least a week in advance to secure your preferred pickup date.

4. Hosting Thanksgiving at Home

If you love to cook, hosting Thanksgiving at home can be a rewarding experience. Here’s how to make it special:

Must-Have Thanksgiving Dishes:

 Roasted turkey with stuffing

 Mashed potatoes and gravy

 Cranberry sauce

 Green bean casserole

 Pumpkin pie

Setting the Mood:

• Use autumn-themed decorations like candles, pumpkins, and rustic table settings.
• Create a Thanksgiving playlist with classic songs.
• Encourage guests to share what they’re thankful for before the meal.

5. Thanksgiving-Themed Events & Gatherings

Thanksgiving in Dubai isn’t just about dining—there are also fun events and social gatherings:

• American Community Thanksgiving Gatherings—Many expat groups and churches host Thanksgiving potlucks.
• Thanksgiving Brunches – Several hotels offer daytime feasts with unlimited drinks and live music.
• Sports Bars Showing NFL Games – Catch the traditional Thanksgiving football games at places like McGettigan’s or Lock, Stock & Barrel.

Pro Tip: Join local expat Facebook groups to find Thanksgiving events happening in Dubai.

6. Pro Tips for a Memorable Thanksgiving in Dubai​

Book Early: Restaurants and turkey takeaways get fully booked weeks in advance.

Shop Smart: If cooking at home, buy ingredients early to avoid last-minute shortages.

Try a Fusion Feast: Experiment with Middle Eastern flavors in your Thanksgiving meal.

Host a Friendsgiving: If you're away from family, gather friends for a potluck-style dinner.

Celebrate generosity by supporting local charities or offering your time through volunteering.

7. FAQs About Thanksgiving in Dubai

1. Do people celebrate Thanksgiving in Dubai?

Yes! Many American and Canadian expats celebrate Thanksgiving, and many restaurants and hotels offer special menus.

2. Where can I buy Thanksgiving ingredients in Dubai?

Supermarkets like Spinneys, Waitrose, and Carrefour stock Thanksgiving essentials like turkey, cranberries, and pumpkin.

3. Can I find halal turkey in Dubai?

Yes, most supermarkets and turkey takeaway providers offer halal-certified turkey.

4. Are there vegetarian or vegan Thanksgiving options?

Absolutely! Many restaurants offer plant-based Thanksgiving menus, and you can find vegan-friendly recipes online.

5. Is Thanksgiving a public holiday in Dubai?

No, Thanksgiving is not a public holiday in the UAE, but celebrations still take place among expats.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving in Dubai may not have the same traditional setting as back home, but it’s still a fantastic time to gather with loved ones, enjoy a feast, and reflect on gratitude. Whether you choose a fine-dining experience, a cozy home-cooked meal, or a fun brunch with friends, there are plenty of ways to make the holiday special.

Ready to celebrate? Book your Thanksgiving dinner or start planning your home feast today!