The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree remains a beloved practice for many residents of the United Arab Emirates, offering a sense of festive cheer and connection to home. From carefully selected real trees to creative alternatives like book-shaped displays, the Christmas tree serves as a focal point for holiday celebrations. This year, residents are sharing stories of cherished trees and offering advice on keeping them looking their best throughout the season.
The enduring appeal of the Christmas tree extends beyond religious observance, becoming a cultural symbol of the holiday season. For expatriates, it can be a particularly poignant reminder of traditions from their home countries. The practice is gaining popularity in the UAE as the country embraces multiculturalism and welcomes diverse celebrations.
The Sentimental Value of a Christmas Tree
Dubai resident Dilukshi Thomas describes her Christmas tree as “one of the best purchases of my life.” Her story highlights how a simple decoration can become deeply personal. Ten years ago, during a challenging time, a search for a replacement tree led her to a display model at a local store. Despite initial resistance from sales staff, she was able to purchase it, and it has been a cherished part of her Christmas celebrations ever since.
Thomas emphasizes the emotional connection to the season, noting that Christmas is a time for family and happiness. She appreciates the elaborate Christmas displays found throughout Dubai, which contribute to the festive atmosphere. The tree, for her, represents continuity and joy during a special time of year.
A Fragrant Reminder of Home
For Sophie Shekhavtsova, a programming curator in the UAE originally from Russia, the Christmas tree is inextricably linked to New Year’s celebrations and cherished childhood memories. She recalls the comforting scent of a real tree filling her grandmother’s home, a fragrance that instantly evokes feelings of warmth and festivity.
Shekhavtsova’s family had a unique tradition of allowing the tree to sit for several days before decorating, maximizing the aroma. She explains that pouring boiling water onto the tree helps release the scent. The tree wasn’t just a decoration; it was a symbol of love, home, and togetherness, often adorned with edible ornaments like oranges and marshmallows.
Beyond Traditional Decorations
While classic ornaments are popular, some residents are embracing more creative approaches to the Christmas tree. Author and essayist Purva Grover enjoys both a traditionally decorated store-bought tree and a unique alternative: a “tree” constructed from stacked books.
Grover tops her book tree with a bookmark acting as a star, finding a special resonance between the season and the power of stories. She believes the holidays offer a final opportunity to add another chapter to the year, filled with beauty and meaning. This highlights the growing trend of personalized holiday decorations.
Caring for Your Christmas Tree
Maintaining a fresh and festive Christmas tree requires a little care. Residents shared several tips for ensuring longevity and safety.
Choosing a fresh tree is crucial. Look for vibrant green needles that are difficult to pull off and a sticky trunk. Before placing the tree in a stand, trim about 2-3 cm off the base to improve water absorption. Consistent hydration is key; refill the stand daily to prevent the tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
Positioning the tree away from heat sources like radiators and direct sunlight will also help it stay fresh longer. Maintaining a cooler room temperature can further slow down water evaporation. Regularly cleaning up fallen needles prevents slipping and keeps the space tidy.
For artificial trees, proper storage is essential. Keep them in their original box or a protective bag to avoid dust and damage. Before decorating, fluff the branches to create a fuller appearance. Inspect pre-lit trees for damaged wires and replace any faulty bulbs. Finally, prioritize safety by using flame-retardant ornaments and keeping candles away from the tree.
As the holiday season progresses, the disposal of real trees will become a consideration for many. Recycling or composting are environmentally responsible options. Artificial trees should be stored carefully for use in future years. The long-term impact of increased Christmas tree consumption on local resources remains a topic for ongoing discussion.
