As December arrives and the weather cools, Dubai’s markets embrace the season by offering fresh Christmas trees. This week, Satwa’s streets have transformed into a mini winter market, lined with green firs from Denmark and Canada, their crisp pine aroma filling the air. Shoppers are bustling through the lanes, comparing sizes, checking needles, and selecting the perfect centerpiece for their homes.
For many residents, these trees signal the start of Christmas in the UAE, and traders report that interest and excitement have arrived early this year.
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Early Interest, Increased Demand
“People started inquiring about trees at the end of November,” said Ahmed, a seasoned seller in Satwa. “Usually, customers arrive in early December, but this year, inquiries began much sooner. Families were eager to reserve their trees even before the shipments arrived.”
As December began, residents flocked to the market, some opting for tall trees for spacious homes, others choosing compact ones for smaller apartments.
Fresh Firs from Denmark and Canada
This year, the most popular arrivals are the 8 to 9-foot Danish firs, which have quickly become favorites among shoppers.
“Most of our large trees come from Denmark,” said Ghattas, another trader. “An 8 to 9-foot tree costs around Dh750, and people love them for their grandeur and natural festive aroma.”
Canadian firs have also returned to the UAE market this season, prized for their deep green color and dense shape.
“These trees are robust and remain fresh for about 45 days with proper care,” said Ahmed. “Residents hosting gatherings or holiday dinners prefer Canadian and Danish trees because they stay green throughout the season.”
Compact Trees for Apartments
Alongside the towering firs, traders have introduced smaller options for those in compact spaces.
“For those seeking smaller trees, we have ones from the Netherlands,” said Ghattas. “They come potted with soil, cost around Dh200, and can grow up to two feet. Indoors, they last two to three months.”
These trees are particularly popular among young couples, students, and families wanting an extra tree for children’s rooms.
Tree Journey to Dubai
Behind the festive scene is a month-long journey across seas. Once cut in Europe or North America, the trees are wrapped in nets and stored in chilled containers to stay fresh. After nearly 25 days, they reach the UAE and are moved to cold storage before display.
Each morning, traders bring out 30 to 45 fresh trees, unwrap them carefully, and shake them to remove dry needles. “We always show customers the actual tree, then repack it neatly for delivery,” said Ghattas.
Fresh trees are also available in Dubai supermarkets. Stores offer smaller options starting at Dh169 for a 1-metre tree (around 3.2 feet). For larger options, supermarkets stock 2-metre trees (about 6.5 feet), priced at Dh299.
