Abu Dhabi: A traditional Swiss Christmas Market in the capital became the venue of the beginning of Christmas celebrations for Swiss nationals in Abu Dhabi.
The Swiss Christmas Market, set-up in open-air, has recreated a little Swiss alpine village where visitors could experience the joy and spirit of the festive season, find special gifts for loved ones and enjoy an evening out with friends and family.
The three-day event began on Thursday evening at the Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi.
The Swiss Business Council Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of the Embassy of Switzerland, organised the annual event which ends on Saturday.
Thirty-three nicely decorated wooden chalets offered guests an array of seasonal items, including a potpourri of decorative gifts, handcrafted items and a selection of culinary delicacies for purchase.
Jean-Marc Suter, president of the Swiss Business Council, inaugurated the ninth edition of the market in the presence of Adrian Bless, Economic Councillor of the Embassy of Switzerland, executives of Beach Rotana and other dignitaries.
Highlighting the Swiss Chocolate treats available at the live chocolate kitchen every day, Suter said all the proceeds from them will be doubled by the council and together “we will donate the amount to Médecins Sans Frontières [Doctors without Borders], as leading charity organisation”.
“We will hand over the cheque on the last day of the Swiss Christmas Market on Saturday at 5pm,” he said.
He thanked the Special Care Centre in Abu Dhabi for their beautiful handicrafts as well as exhibit drawings for sale at the event. “During the three days of the event we are exhibiting their drawings around the theme ‘Christmas in Abu Dhabi’,” Suter said.
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by the wonderful aroma of freshly baked cookies and other seasonal treats at the market.
The guests also enjoyed traditional Swiss delicacies like “Raclette”, a Swiss potato and cheese dish, and the Swiss fondue, a dish best enjoyed with friends.
Musical highlights included Christmas Carols performed by local school choirs, with an invitation for guests to sing along.
Original Appenzeller Streichmusik Alder, one of the most famous Swiss folklore bands promoting Swiss culture all over the world, performed throughout the three days.
The students of the Elite Music Institute Abu Dhabi also performed on Thursday.
