The Christmas tree debate continues this year. Should you buy a real tree or go for an artifical one? We look at two sides of the same coin, where one reader is pro-real, while the other is pro-artificial.
Pro Artificial:
Rebecca Gleeson, 27, Irish says:
I prefer artificial trees. For some festive revelers, only a real tree will do. But when the partying comes to an end, the cinnamon scented candles are burnt out, and the New Year’s glitter and confetti has been swept away, you’re really just left with the issue of how to dispose of the tree whilst facing the challenge of clearing up of the inevitable needles in the carpet.Not only is an artificial tree easy to place, pack away and cost effective, it is also such a time saver when it comes to popping it up.
A final point in favour of the artificial tree, is that you can pick just the right size and shape for your home – even down to the very right shade of green. You want your tree with a covering of gentle faux snowflakes? No problem, the artificial tree has you covered!
Pro Real:
Katie Daniels, British, 32 , says:
There’s something inherently Christmassy about walking into your living room and smelling the scent of a fresh pine tree. Going to the Christmas tree market, walking along the rows of fresh pines and choosing the perfect sized tree is an activity that really marked the start of Christmas for my family. There is an art to it; not too tall, not too wide but with lots of branches for the ornaments.
Whilst I understand there are certain practical benefits to an artificial tree, in my opinion they simply do not look as good in the corner of the room and they lose their shape after a few years. Plus, making each fake tree, with its thousands of pieces of plastic, is also really bad for the environment, as is disposing of them. Real trees are grown for the purpose and can be disposed of in an ecologically sound way.
Choosing and decorating a real Christmas tree has definitely always been an integral part of my family’s festive ritual and it’s one I would like to continue.
Here is your list of where to get both real and artificial trees in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
From trees to baubles, decor pieces and stocking fillers, these stores stock everything you require for this festive season.
Note: Scour Karama, Satwa and Bur Dubai for pop-up Christmas decor shops and boutique stores which offer great decorative items at bargain prices.
Real Christmas Trees
Dubai Garden Centre
For original imported trees and Christmas decor items such as lights, gnomes and baubles for your tree, Dubai Garden Centre has it all. The real trees sell out quickly, so get there while stocks last.
Location Near First Gulf Bank metro station, Shaikh Zayed Road Cost Dh595 for real trees (2.5 metres tall) and a variety of artificial trees, Contact +971 4 590 4333 Website Dubai Garden Centre
Christmas Trees Dubai
Get your Christmas tree imported from Quebec this Christmas. However, orders are to be placed by early December. Check them out if you are still hoping for an authentic Fraser Fir Christmas tree.
Website for orders Cost Dh550 onwards (with and without stand)
Spinneys
For those who want the real deal and don't want to go out of your way to get one, Spinneys is your best bet. However these tend to run out of stock really fast and not all outlets stock them. Call ahead to ensure you'll get your tree or ask them about their artificial ones. They also stock up on X'mas decor trinkets and lights.
Location Across UAE Cost Various
My Green Chapter
Get your 7 to 8 feet tall tree delivered to your doorstep. These are sold without stands. Get your tree on a sturdy stand, and water and care for it for as long as you have it. Keep the tree away from direct sunlight and never place it directly under or near a strong air-conditioning vent.
Website for orders Cost Dh590
Artificial Christmas trees
Dubai Garden Centre
For original imported trees and Christmas decor items such as lights, gnomes and baubles for your tree, Dubai Garden Centre has it all. The real trees sell out quickly, so get there while stocks last.
Location Near First Gulf Bank metro station, Shaikh Zayed Road Cost Dh595 for real trees (2.5 metres tall) and a variety of artificial trees, Contact +971 4 590 4333 Website Dubai Garden Centre
Spinneys
For those who want the real deal and don't want to go out of your way to get one, Spinneys is your best bet. However these tend to run out of stock really fast and not all outlets stock them. Call ahead to ensure you'll get your tree or ask them about their artificial ones. They also stock up on X'mas decor trinkets and lights.
Location Across UAE Cost Various
Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware stocks every item you may require for your Christmas decorations such as festive lights, Christmas cards, assorted decorations, baubles, ribbons and party décor. There are also discounts that you can take advantage of. The online site offers home delivery and you can choose to pay by cash or card on delivery.
Location Dubai Festival City Cost Dh100 onwards Contact +971 4 232 5232 Website ACE UAE
Ikea
A single trip to Ikea is all that is required for complete Christmas shopping this season with colour coordinated decorations and accessories for different kinds of artificial trees like the green traditional ones with snow tipped branches or the all-white sparkly trees.
Location Dubai Festival City and Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Cost Various Contact +971 4 203 7555 Website IKEA UAE
Home Centre
Location Across UAE Cost Various Website
Carrefour
With Christmas decor being a once a year purchase, splurging may seem useless. So stocks at Carrefour offer affordable options for all decor items including Christmas trees. They also have a wide selection of items to choose from so you don’t have to worry about forgoing variety for a lower price.
Location All Carrefour stores Cost Various
Reflections
Another decor store in Al Quoz, Reflections has sweet trinkets to ceiling high décor pieces. Trees, wreaths, under the tree gift boxes, Santa suits, stockings and everything you need will be stocked in the store.
Location Al Quoz Industrial Area Cost Various Contact +971 4 347 0542 Website Reflections
Marks and Spencer
Location Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Mall of the Emirates and Festival Waterfront Centre in Dubai Festival City Contact +971 4 206 6466 Website MarksandSpencer
Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn stocks small trees (one metre) as well as cute accessories for your Christmas tree along with festive themed dinner sets, Santa themed mugs and even festive cushions. Call ahead to make sure they have trees in stock.
Location Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre Contact 800802 Website Pottery Barn
Daiso
From trees to cute accessories, Daiso stocks everything and their motto is value for money. So, for those of you on a budget, this store could be well worth a trip.
Location Multiple Cost Various; The maximum you'll pay here is Dh600 for a 10 ft. tree Contact +971 4 335 1532 Website Daiso
Decorations
Irony Home
Location Dubai Mall Contact +971 4 434 0166 Website Irony Home
Zara Home
Location Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Palm Strip Mall, Deira City Centre, Jumeirah Beach Residence Contact +971 4 295 2092
Crate and Barrel
Founded in Chicago, Crate and Barrel is well known for its exclusive homeware, décor and kitchenware designs. For Christmas, they have an array of beautiful décor products shown in their winter catalogue here.
Location Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre Contact +971 4 284 3151 Website Crate and Barrel
Debenhams
Debenhams stock great Christmas décor pieces and also has an offer or two running. You can buy all you need for festive home cheer and squeeze in some winter shopping as well.
Location Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta Mall Contact +971 4 339 9285 Website Debenhams
