As the December air takes on a crisp edge and daylight wanes, the tradition of adorning homes with Christmas trees brings festive joy to the lively streets of Satwa. Hailing from Canada, the fresh evergreens on display not only beautify the Dubai market but also fill the atmosphere with the invigorating scent of pine.
Holiday Shopping Extravaganza in Satwa
Canadian Charm Meets UAE Festivities
Satwa’s market becomes a winter wonderland as Christmas enthusiasts negotiate with sellers for these imported treasures. Residents from all corners of the UAE make their way to Satwa, where a plethora of choices awaits them – from modest corner trees to imposing floor-to-ceiling masterpieces.
Tradition and Nostalgia: A Shopper’s Perspective
Physiotherapist’s Annual Ritual
Carolina Borges, a Polish expat in Al Jaddaf, shares her annual tradition of selecting a fresh Christmas tree from the market. As a physiotherapist, she holds a particular fondness for Fraser Fir trees, reminiscent of the ones in Poland, adorned with apples, oranges, and gingerbreads. Borges emphasizes the enchanting fragrance that fills her home during the holiday season.
Nordmann Firs from Denmark: A Preferred Choice
Angela’s Grand Hall Decor
Vendors in Satwa have not only imported trees from Canada but also introduced Nordmann firs from Denmark, a favorite among residents. Angela, a Filipino expat in Deira, opted for a grand 10-footer to embellish her spacious hall for the holiday festivities. She excitedly details her plans to deck the towering tree with an array of festive items, making it a focal point for guests.
Holiday Rush: National Day Weekend Surge
Unprecedented Demand and Seller’s Perspective
During the National Day weekend, Satwa vendors experienced an unprecedented surge in demand. Ahmed, one of the sellers, reported selling over 90 trees daily during the festive weekend, and the momentum has continued with approximately 50 trees sold daily.
Preserving Festive Freshness: Tips from the Manager
Gulshan Abdul Gafoor’s Advice on Tree Longevity
Gulshan Abdul Gafoor, Manager at National Flowers, shares tips on preserving the trees for up to 45 days. He suggests mixing water with sugar or beverages and pouring it onto the base. Gulshan highlights the unique qualities of trees from Denmark and Canadian Fraser Fir, noting their strength and decorative potential.
From Sea to Satwa: The Journey of Christmas Trees
Intricate Shipping and Display Process
The intricate process of transporting these trees involves wrapping them in nets or ropes and storing them in freezing containers during shipping. After a month at sea, the trees reach UAE, where they are carefully unwrapped and displayed for buyers. Sellers ensure customers can inspect and choose their preferred trees, and once selected, the trees are neatly repackaged in nets for delivery to their new festive homes.
Also Read
“UAE National Day Holiday: 5 Visa-Free Destinations for Last-Minute Getaways”
“Cultivating Sustainable Living: Expo City Dubai’s Organic Farming Journey from Farm to Table”-1
