Dubai dog parents… this one’s for you
Clear your calendars and grab the leads — Barkfest by Feastival is making history with its first-ever beach edition, taking over Barasti Beach on Saturday, 13 December, from 1pm to 9pm. For one paw-fect day only, Barasti transforms into a dog-friendly seaside playground, complete with swimming zones, festive fun, and a full-on Christmas market for pets and humans alike
Powered by Royal Canin and The Petshop, this is set to be Dubai’s most wholesome, joy-filled festive event for dog lovers — with sunshine, sand, wagging tails, and seasonal magic.
Also read: Dubai: 5 Winter/Christmas Market Opening Dates You Can’t Miss This Season
Beach day, but make it festive
Against Barasti’s iconic backdrop, pups can splash in the sea, run free in off-leash zones for small and large dogs, or chill in cabanas while humans soak up the laid-back beach vibes. Floating platforms, sun loungers, and a kids’ area mean every member of the family — furry or not — is catered to
First 100 dogs through the gate receive free branded dog towels courtesy of Royal Canin & The Petshop.
The Dog Show — the cutest competition in Dubai
From 4pm to 6pm, Barkfest’s signature Dog Show takes centre stage, judged by Aimee Orme from The Petshop. Expect categories that guarantee maximum adorableness:
- Scruffiest Dog
- Merriest Tail Wagger
- Best Paw Shake
- Golden Oldie (8+ years)
- Best Puppy (1 and under)
- Best Trick
- Dog Most Like Its Owner
Every contestant gets a rosette, and winners score big prizes from Royal Canin & The Petshop
Santa, snow & a Christmas tree lighting on the beach
Yes, Santa is coming to the seaside.
From 3:30pm to 6:30pm, families can snap free festive photos with Santa, sponsored by Cosmopet.
Plus:
Festive snow falling on the sand
Carol singers
A Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 7pm
It’s the most Dubai-style winter celebration imaginable — and we’re here for it
A full Christmas Market… for pets!
Browse 20+ stalls featuring some of the UAE’s best pet and lifestyle brands, including:
Howlistic Petz, Paw Haven, Xolo Boutique, Pawsome Pals, PupNut, Pup Of Luxury, Furchild, and many more
From treats and toys to premium accessories, grooming goods, candles, and festive outfits — it’s a pet parent’s paradise.
Meanwhile, Barasti will serve its full à la carte menu all day long, keeping everyone fueled and festive
Tickets & event details
- Pre-book: AED 20
- On the day: AED 30
- Kids under 12: FREE
- All dogs: FREE
Where: Barasti Beach
When: Saturday, 13 December
Time: 1pm – 9pm
Tickets: https://dubai.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/102460/barkfest
Important info for dog owners:
All dogs must be social & non-reactive
Vaccinations must be up to date
Bring pet passport or VacciCheck certificate
The Gulf Buzz take
Sun, sand, snow, Santa, swimming dogs, Christmas markets, and an entire community of pet lovers — Barkfest’s first beach edition is guaranteed to be one of Dubai’s most heartwarming festive events of 2025.
Whether you’re bringing a playful pup, a senior snoozer, or just love being around dogs, this is the kind of feel-good day that reminds you why Dubai’s pet community is one of the best in the world.
Grab the leash, pack a towel, and get ready for a very merry, very waggy beach day.
