Christmas In Dubai?

 

So I went off the deep end and decided to take a teaching job in Dubai.  In the Middle East where there are very few Christians and most people are Islamic.

 

Since this is an Arab country and Islamic is practiced here by the native people, Christmas should not have been a big deal.  In fact, Christmas should not have been celebrated or recognized by the State in any big way.  I thought Christmas would be low key even here in Dubai. 

 

How wrong I was!!!

 

I learned a couple of things this Christmas season in Dubai.  Here is what I learned:

 

1.  Christmas is big in Dubai.  It is huge.  Every place is decked out in holly.  The malls, hotels, and stores are all decorated for Christmas.  This seemed a little hypocritical to me.  Until #2 was really cemented for me.

 

2.  Dubai is about appearances and money.  Anything that makes a great appearance is used to advantage.  After all many expats live in Dubai and they celebrate Christmas so Dubai puts on a big show for them. 

 

3. Anything that will generate money is used to generate money.  Christmas generates money due to the large international population that exists in the city.  So, Christmas it is.

 

4.  Christmas is huge in Dubai.  Huge trees, huge ornaments, huge productions, huge advertising.

 

5.  You can buy real Christmas trees and wreathes in Dubai.  I have no idea where they come from but you can get; along with turkeys and hams.  (Of course if you want a ham you have to go into the Pork:  non-Muslim section of the store to order and buy your ham, but you can get them.)

 

6.  Christmas music is even played in Dubai on the English speaking radio channels. 

 

7.  Christmas lights are not called Christmas lights - they are called Fairy Lights here.  Really Christmas lights are Christmas lights.  If you're going to have Christmas trees for sale; then you have Christmas lights for sale.

 

8.  Christmas time is another time for parties.  Hey, any excuse is a good excuse for getting together and having some snacks and drinks.

 

9.  Christmas is Christmas where ever you go in the world. 

 

10.  Again, Dubai is about appearances and money; however even those 2 items cannot take away from the true meaning of Christmas.

 

11.  Christmas is Christmas, and it is about the life and sacrifice of Christ; and giving to others.  No money and bling can not take away the true meaning of Christmas.

 

12.  Muslim country or not, Christmas, even though it was nice to see the trimmings, is still Christmas and yes,  it should be celebrated in the correct way.

 

Christmas in Dubai was like Christmas in Colorado.  I was able to reflect on the true meaning, and share with others.