Father Christmas is back on his annual global journey, and NORAD is actively tracking his movements live. Santa left the North Pole earlier today, guiding his sleigh with precision and reindeer-powered speed.
Families in the UAE and across the world can watch Santa’s journey in real-time as he spreads joy to children everywhere.
Santa’s Early Flight Path
Early tracking shows Santa flying over Finland before returning to Greenland for a planned stop to feed his reindeer carrots, milk, and mince pies.
Flightradar24, the global flight tracking platform, monitors Santa’s journey alongside NORAD. They explained that Santa starts his flight at 08:00 UTC on December 23, warming up his reindeer and testing the sleigh.
A Flightradar24 spokesperson said:
“We track Santa using terrestrial and satellite-based technology with a touch of Christmas magic. Santa even boosts his transponder range using his reindeer antlers as antennas.”
Santa’s Sleigh: A Unique Christmas Aircraft
Santa flies in a 9-engine Rangifer tarandus sleigh, registered as HOHOHO (MSN 0001). It cruises at 60,000 feet at 1,459 knots, far faster than any commercial jet.
The sleigh has served Santa for 1,753 years. To ensure safe travel, he added a ninth engine and a bright guiding nose to navigate every Christmas Eve, even in foggy conditions.
Expected Arrival in the UAE
Current tracking indicates that Santa will reach the UAE between 9 pm and midnight, arriving just in time for Christmas morning celebrations.
Guidelines for UAE Families
To ensure a smooth visit, families should:
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Leave carrots for the reindeer, including Dasher, Dancer, and Rudolph
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Provide cookies or snacks for Santa
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Keep rooftops, balconies, and air-conditioning units clear
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Ensure children are asleep to let Santa deliver gifts efficiently
NORAD and Flightradar note that these small preparations help Santa complete his journey safely and smoothly.
A Magical Christmas Tradition
Santa’s annual flight excites families worldwide and spreads the spirit of joy, generosity, and togetherness. Tracking his journey has become a cherished part of Christmas Eve, bringing magic to children and adults alike.
