From divine smelling pine trees brought in all the way from snowy Denmark to perfectly pre-decorated artificial trees, here is the Home Club ME Christmas Tree shopping guide.

Whether you are looking for a real tree or artificial, big to small and pre decorated to plain, we have rounded up some of the best ‘go to’ places for your perfect Christmas tree. But before deciding on the where we need to narrow down the what….

Why Buy A Real Christmas Tree?

That smell! Nothing quite says Christmas like that divine pine scent that is only achievable with the real deal (no matter how many tree scented candles we buy).

Lower carbon footprint: A real Christmas tree is ultimately a crop, like a carrot or roast potatoes! See our sustainability point below for a full sustainability breakdown.

Authenticity: For tradition and an authentic Christmas experience, you simply cannot top the real deal.

How To Shop For A Real Tree

Measure your ceiling height and the space in which you intend to put the tree to ensure it fits. And please don’t forget to measure your door frames so you can actually get it into your home!

Inspect the tree for broken or weak branches, and keep an eye out for insects and excessive dirt. And don’t forget the tree stand!

If you take good care of your Christmas tree, it can last up to six weeks, so you should be able to pick yours at the beginning of December and still have it looking green and smelling fresh come the New Year

Why Buy An Artificial Christmas Tree?

Reusability: As much as we would love to, we can’t exactly go into our backyard and chop down a real tree here in the UAE (might be an idea for Ski Dubai though?). Having an artificial Christmas tree with easy storage means we can guarantee having a beautiful Christmas tree without the hassle of sourcing one each year.

Easy care: No need to worry about sunlight or watering conditions.

Allergies: No itchy skin or sniffly noses with a fake tree!

No pine needle mess: We can’t be the only ones who were still finding pine needles in our rugs in June?

How To Shop For Artificial Trees

The best artificial trees have thick branches which prevent you from seeing the interior pole and give a more “real effect”. They should also be sturdy enough to hold the weight of your ornaments. For easy storage, look for hinged branches. Consider the tree as an investment to be kept for years to come (see our sustainability point).

Opt for non-PVC if possible. PVC is both non-recyclable and emits pollutants during production. Finding a 100% PVC tree can prove difficult, but try and choose one made of as much PE (polyethylene) as possible as it is a safer plastic which also creates the most realistic looking pine needles (win win!).

The Sustainability Debate

Where To Purchase Your Real Christmas Tree

Spinneys: Spinney has a ship filled with beautiful Nordmann firs from Denmark which are due to arrive in Dubai on 21st November 2019. For some extra fun with the kids, you can “track the trees” journey across the globe on the animated map. Starting at Dhs195.  http://www.spinneys-dubai.com/

Dubai Garden Centre: One of our favourite plant shops will be taking delivery of a collection of beautiful real Christmas trees which will be stocked at both the Sheikh Zayed road branch and newly opened Jumeirah branch. We highly recommend taking some time to enjoy a coffee and cake at the lovely Garden Centre café whilst you’re there. Starting at Dhs700. https://www.dubaigardencentre.ae/

Ace: A one stop shop for all things festive, ACE will be stocking a range or real and artificial trees in both their Festival City and Sheikh Zayed Road branches. The trees are due for arrival 25th of November. Starting at Dhs 21.75 for a mini tree. https://www.aceuae.com/

Bloombox: For the ultimate hassle free shopping experience, pre order your real tree from bloombox website. Ranging from Dhs650-950 the Noble Fir trees are  grown in Oregon, US and are due for delivery in December. Home delivery included. https://bloombox.ae/christmas-tree/

Satwa: If travel is a non-issue and you are up for a bit of haggling, head over to Satwa for the annual display of Canadian imported trees.  Starting in early December, you can find the Christmas tree area at Hubaida Street on the Iranian Hospital side. Expect to pay around 400dhs for a modest size tree.

Where To Purchase Your Artificial Christmas Tree

IKEA: If you have visited IKEA in the last few weeks you would undoubtedly have spotted their huge Christmas display. Stocking trees in all shapes in sizes, the Scandinavian super chain is an expat favourite for everything from a tree to baubles, fairy lights, window decorations and wrapping paper. You can even pick up some seasonal Scandinavian treats in the process. Starting at Dhs45 for a small tree. http://ikea.ae/

Dubizzle: For a sustainable option, look for a pre-loved tree. https://www.dubizzle.com/

Home Centre: From snow covered trees with pre-attached pine cones to Christmas trees with the fairy lights already built in, Home Centre has a wide selection of Christmas trees in all sizes. You can also find your table decorations, baubles and seasonal home décor in the store. homecentre.com

Dragon Mart: If you are looking to bag a bargain, Dragon Mart is the place for you. Bring cash, comfortable shoes and your best haggle game. For the ultimate deal, go with a group of friends to buy in bulk for additional discounts.

Carrefour: Visit one of the many city stores and hypermarkets for a wide selection of artificial Christmas trees (the current display in the Mall of the Emirates branch is impressive). For the ultimate ease, browse Carrefour online for affordable options. https://www.carrefouruae.com/