Monday, November 2, 2026
Travel & Leisure

After months of searching, Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah has finally found Santa Claus… and he’s coming to town!

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Sofitel sets the scene for cheerful celebrations by the sea, establishing itself as Ras Al Khaimah’s destination of choice this holiday season

 This holiday season, Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort transforms into an illuminated haven of festive elegance, where French hospitality meets joyful celebration. Guests are invited to discover the magic of the occasion through a series of heartwarming experiences, from a special visit from Santa Claus and an enchanting tree-lighting ceremony to indulgent afternoon teas and exquisite Christmas Eve dinners. The celebrations culminate in a spectacular New Year’s Eve soirée, with prime views of Ras Al Khaimah’s world-record-breaking fireworks display.

Santa & Mrs Claus Are Coming to Town

Straight from the North Pole, Santa Claus and Mrs Claus are making Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort their home throughout December. From checking children’s wish lists and keeping a close eye on the naughty and nice list, to inspecting festive trees and leading the resort’s singing elves, Santa has plenty on his plate. Expect surprise appearances, cosy storytime sessions and festive activities throughout the month, creating magical moments and special memories for the entire family.

Date: Throughout the month of December

Time: Daily activities and schedules to be announced

Christmas Tree Lighting in the Lobby

Kicking off the festivities on a vibrant note, Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort presents an enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on Friday, 5th December. Guests are in for a treat with Santa Claus’ special appearance alongside familiar angelic voices from the local music school leading the carols, with traditional Glühwein, hot chocolate, mince pies and Christmas cookie bites, setting the cheerful mood for the season.

Date: Saturday 5th December

Time: From 4pm to 6pm

Festive Afternoon Tea at Citron

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a festive afternoon tea at Citron, served daily from Sunday 6th December to Wednesday 30th December. Themed pastries and delicate sandwiches arrive with premium teas, barista-made coffees or cosy hot chocolates to keep the heart warm. For a little extra sparkle, there’s the option to enjoy a glass of bubbly.

Date: From Sunday 6th December to Wednesday 30th December

Time: From 3pm to 7pm

Price

  • AED 185 for two guests
  • AED 245 for two guests with a glass of bubbly

Gingerbread House Making at East Bar Terrace

In the run-up to Christmas, little chefs can roll up their sleeves and build a gingerbread house of their own, expertly guided by the resort’s culinary team. It’s an afternoon of icing, sweets and a fair amount of creativity, with everything the kids need to bring their sweetest ideas to life. Walk-in guests also get Kids Splash and pool access included.

Date: From Saturday 19th December to Wednesday 23rd December

Time: From 3pm to 5pm

Price: AED 120 per child, aged 6 to 11 years

Offering: Children must be accompanied by an adult. Walk-in guests require a 24-hour advance reservation, while in-house guests can register at the Kids Club

Turkey Takeaway

For those looking to host at the comfort of their home, Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort’s chefs will take care of the centrepiece, so guests can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with the people around it. Each turkey is prepared fresh and presented beautifully along with all the trimmings, ideal to set the table and savour unhurried moments with loved ones.

Date: From Saturday 5th December 2026 to Thursday 7th January 2027
Time: Daily collection from Citron Lobby Lounge, from 11am to 9pm
Price:

  • AED 850 for 6 to 8 persons, including sides and condiments
  • AED 500 for 2 to 4 persons for boneless turkey, including sides and condiments

Offering: 72 hours advance booking required

Golden Blend Festive Beverages

With the celebratory spirit across Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort, guests are invited to taste winter flavours with a collection of cocktails and zero-alcohol creations perfectly crafted for the festive season. Concocted by expert mixologists across Veriats, Réunion, and Citron, the beverage programme will feature warm spices, dried fruits, caramel notes, and rich seasonal flavours inspired by the holiday.

Date: From Saturday 5th December to Saturday 30th December

Time: Daily, from 3pm to 11pm
Price: AED 50 per drink

Christmas Eve Dinner at Réunion

On Christmas Eve, Réunion invites guests to gather around a French-inspired festive table, with a curated three-course menu featuring a choice of appetiser, main course and dessert, complemented by selected wines or a soft beverage package. A live performance by the resident band sets the tone for the evening, while a special visit from Santa adds a little magic to the celebrations.

Date: Thursday 24th December

Time: From 6:30pm to 11pm
Price:

  • AED 375 per person for a 3-course festive set menu including soft beverages
  • AED 475 per person for a 3-course festive set menu including wine pairing
  • AED 199 for kids from 6 to 11 years

Offering: Set menu only. Advance reservations required.

Christmas Day Brunch at Réunion

With the festive spirit in full swing, Réunion invites guests to enjoy Christmas Day brunch al fresco, featuring an oyster and ceviche bar, a lavish seafood selection and an abundant spread made for a leisurely afternoon. Live music and DJ sets keep the atmosphere lively, while younger guests can enjoy a special meet-and-greet with Santa, face painting and a host of activities, leaving the grown-ups free to sit back, relax and enjoy another glass.

Date: Friday 25th December

Time: From 1pm to 4pm
Price:

  • AED 450 per person for the soft beverage package
  • AED 650 per person for the house beverage package
  • AED 750 per person for the champagne package
  • AED 200 for kids from 6 to 11 years

Early Bird Offer: Book by 5th December and receive 20% off

Orthodox Christmas Eve Brunch at Réunion

For those celebrating Orthodox Christmas, Réunion comes alive with an evening of thoughtful flavours, cherished traditions and festive warmth. Bringing Orthodox customs to the table, guests are invited to gather with loved ones over a three-course set menu, complemented by a live DJ, for a meaningful occasion filled with good food, music and togetherness.

Date: Wednesday 6th January
Time: From 6:30pm to 11pm
Price:

  • AED 275 per person for the soft beverage package
  • AED 475 per person for the wine pairing package

Orthodox Christmas Day Brunch at Réunion

Bring family and friends together for a festive Christmas Day brunch, Réunion opens its doors for a gathering inspired by the relaxed charm and convivial spirit of the South of France. Guests can enjoy a generous buffet, live band music and seasonal cheer, with festive activities for little ones and a special visit from Santa Claus to make the day memorable for the whole family.

Date: Thursday 7th January

Time: From 1pm to 4pm
Price:

  • AED 345 per person for the soft beverage package
  • AED 545 per person for the house beverage package

New Year’s Eve at East

A celebration for the whole family, East welcomes the New Year with a relaxed and generous buffet featuring a diverse selection of dishes, from European favourites to Levantine classics. A live solo singer sets the tone for the evening, while family-friendly festivities keep younger guests entertained. As midnight approaches, guests can come together to count down to the New Year, raising a glass to new beginnings and the year ahead.

Date: Thursday 31st December
Time: From 7pm to 1am
Price:

  • AED 450 per person for the soft beverage package
  • AED 750 per person for the house beverage package
  • AED 200 for kids from 6 to 11 years

Early Bird Offer: Book by 5th December and receive 20% off

New Year’s Eve at Réunion

In true Sofitel fashion, Réunion welcomes the New Year with an evening of understated glamour, dressed in rich tones and golden details for the occasion. The celebrations begin with a welcome drink before guests are invited to savour a four-course French gourmet menu. As the evening unfolds, a live musical duo and captivating dance performances bring a sense of occasion, building the atmosphere as midnight draws closer. To welcome 2027, guests can raise a glass and cheer the New Year in signature Sofitel style, surrounded by good company and an evening to remember.

Date: Thursday 31st December

Time: From 8pm to 1am
Price:

  • AED 700 per person for the soft beverage package
  • AED 950 per person for the premium beverage package
  • AED 350 for kids from 6 to 11 years

Offering: 4-course set menu only. Advance reservation is required.

Early Bird Offer: Book by 5th December and receive 20% off

New Year’s Eve at Waka

Bringing the spirit and flavours of the South Pacific to the celebrations, Waka welcomes the New Year with an evening of vibrant dining and entertainment, set against the backdrop of Ras Al Khaimah’s world-record-breaking New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The festivities begin with a glass of Prosecco, followed by a four-course sharing menu. A live band sets the mood until 11:30pm, before the resident DJ takes over, building the energy towards the midnight countdown. As the clock strikes twelve, guests can enjoy the spectacular fireworks illuminating the sky over Marjan Island, with Waka offering a prime vantage point from which to witness one of the region’s most anticipated New Year celebrations and welcome 2027 in unforgettable fashion.

Date: Thursday 31st December
Time: Dinner from 8pm to 1am, after-party until 2am
Price:

  • AED 900 per person for the soft beverage package
  • AED 1,200 per person for the premium beverage package
  • AED 450 for kids from 6 to 11 years

Offering: 4-course sharing-style menu. Advance reservation is required.
Early Bird Offer: Book by 5th December and receive 20% off

For advance bookings and reservations: Please call +971 7 209 6000, WhatsApp +971 54 233 9751 or email SOFITEL.AlHamraBeachResort.RoyalService@sofitel.com.

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