Christmas in the Middle East has a way of doing things differently — bolder, more symbolic, sometimes quieter, sometimes unapologetically extra. From trees that speak to survival and peace, to others dripping in crystals and couture, these festive icons tell stories far beyond baubles and lights. Here’s a roundup of some of the coolest Christmas trees across the region, each unforgettable in its own way.
Bethlehem’s Christmas Tree Returns After Two Years of Silence
For two years, Christmas fell silent in Bethlehem. Amid the war in Gaza, all public celebrations were cancelled in the occupied West Bank, and the city where Jesus was born chose restraint over revelry. This year, that changed. Following the recent ceasefire, Bethlehem brought Christmas back — symbolised by the lighting of its traditional giant tree in front of the historic Church of the Nativity.
The moment was deeply emotional. The glow of the tree felt like a collective exhale, a quiet but powerful reminder of resilience, faith, and hope returning to Manger Square.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira Dubai Unveils a Schiaparelli Christmas Tree
Dubai doesn’t do subtle — and the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira fully embraces that energy with one of the most luxurious Christmas trees in the region. This year’s showstopper is a dazzling collaboration with legendary fashion house Schiaparelli, transforming the hotel lobby into a surreal, high-fashion dreamscape.
At the heart of the sculpture is a dramatic ruby-red heart — instantly eye-catching and unapologetically bold. Set with 1,458 genuine Swarovski crystals, it sparkles intensely under the lights, beating metaphorically at the centre of the display. The heart motif, a signature of Schiaparelli’s design language, adds a layer of avant-garde elegance to the festive setting.
Beirut Reveals Lebanon’s First-Ever Rotating Christmas Tree
Beirut made history this season — and did it in style. At Zaitunay Bay, right in front of the glamorous Le Yacht Club, the city unveiled Lebanon’s first rotating Christmas tree. Overlooking the waterfront, the tree slowly turns as if dancing with the sea breeze, glowing softly as live music fills the air.
But this tree is more than a visual spectacle. Its mirrored metal leaves echo the olive tree — a powerful symbol of peace, endurance, and rootedness. Bound together as one, they reflect the idea of unity in a city that has weathered countless storms. Inside, a gentle music-box hum adds a layer of nostalgia, like a heartbeat beneath the celebration.
Dior Lights Up Dubai Mall with a Gingerbread-Inspired Christmas Tree
If Christmas had a couture pastry shop, Dior’s tree at Dubai Mall would be the main attraction. Lighting up the Fashion Atrium, Dior unveiled a gingerbread-inspired Christmas tree dripping in golden tones and icing-like details. Officially inaugurated by Razane Jammal, the installation instantly transformed one of the busiest shopping spaces in the world into a festive wonderland. Playful yet polished, it’s the kind of tree that feels whimsical without losing its luxury edge — proof that fashion houses know how to do Christmas just as well as they do runways.
Address Sky View’s Christmas Tree Shines Against Dubai’s Iconic Skyline
Some trees know exactly where they are — and this one leans all the way in. The gold-and-white Christmas tree at Address Sky View is all about elegance and location. Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s most iconic buildings, the tree gleams under the city lights, perfectly framed by glass towers and architectural drama.
It’s refined, glamorous, and effortlessly photogenic — the kind of tree that looks like it belongs on a holiday postcard stamped “Dubai.”
Batroun’s Towering Christmas Tree Creates a Fairytale Village
Batroun’s Christmas tree looks like it leapt straight out of a storybook. Rather than a traditional pine, the tree is built like a stacked winter village, spiralling upward in layers. Each tier is dotted with tiny snow-covered houses, glowing windows, arched doors, and miniature churches.
Warm yellow lights spill out from inside, giving the illusion that the entire tree is alive — bustling with little festive lives. At the very top, a star crowns the structure, while the whole piece feels part Alpine village, part childhood imagination. It’s cozy, charming, and undeniably magical.
Stories Beyond Decoration
What makes these Christmas trees truly cool isn’t just their size, sparkle, or luxury — it’s their stories. Some reflect hope after hardship. Others celebrate creativity, fashion, or pure joy. Together, they show how Christmas across the Middle East is deeply layered, emotionally rich, and endlessly imaginative. From Bethlehem to Batroun, Dubai to Beirut, these trees prove one thing: festive spirit doesn’t follow a single formula — and that’s what makes it magical.
WE SAID THIS: Don’t Miss It…Cookies, Cake & All Things Merry: Christmas Desserts in Egypt
