From spooky Halloween setups to magical Christmas displays, UAE residents are showcasing their creativity by turning haunted homes into festive wonderlands.
In Damac Hills 2, Polish expat Ewa Ledeboer has transformed her house into an enchanting Santa’s toy factory. Despite being a full-time employee, Ewa spent two weeks using weekends and evenings to craft the display with recycled items like cycle packaging, toilet paper rolls, and popcorn boxes.
“The box from my new vacuum cleaner became Santa’s post box,” Ewa shared. “I bought the vacuum just before Halloween, and the box fits perfectly for my idea.”
Upcycling for Christmas
In October, Ewa’s Halloween display featured an “underwater horror” scene, complete with shipwrecks and sea creatures all made from recycled materials. Many of those decorations now form parts of her Christmas display, repurposed into gears, boards, and festive accents.
“The letterbox was part of a pirate ship I made for Halloween,” she explained. “I reshaped and painted boards to give them a golden festive look. Everything was upcycled except for a few gold spray cans and glitter from past Christmases.”
Using foam, AC ducts, and leftover materials, Ewa created a display that is not only creative but also eco-friendly. “The display even includes moving parts from Halloween, like AC ducts that were once a Kraken. Now, they’re part of the toy factory setup. Think of it as a Willy Wonka factory, but for Christmas!”
Letters to Santa
The highlight of Ewa’s display is the interactive Santa Claus letterbox, where neighborhood children post their letters. “I print personalized certificates as replies to the kids, making the experience magical. Some children have even sent three letters!” she said.
Ewa spent just Dh100 on decorations like a snowman and reindeer, proving that creativity and sustainability can create joy without breaking the bank.
A Touch of Authenticity
In Jumeirah Lakes Towers, American expat Natalia Miranda celebrates Christmas with a towering nine-foot real tree imported from Canada.
“We’ve always loved having a real tree,” said Natalia. “It’s about creating memories.”
The grand fir, costing Dh815, arrived in perfect condition and now stands adorned with sentimental ornaments collected over the years. Natalia also decorates her home with three additional artificial trees to spread the festive spirit.
“We use the same decorations year after year. Each piece carries a story or memory, which makes them so special,” she shared.
Unique Traditions
At Christine Quartier La Tente’s home, decorating the Christmas tree is a family tradition. They use rare ornaments, including a collection from the Bullarum Store, featuring flags from countries they’ve visited.
“We also add nutcrackers, pinecones, and a star crafted by my daughter in primary school,” Christine explained.
Christine’s house reflects holiday magic throughout, with giant candy canes, oversized ornaments, and twinkling lights. Her handmade decorations, created by Spanish artists, add a touch of tradition.
To end the year, Christine’s family revisits milestones by reading notes collected in a gratitude jar throughout the year. “It’s a heartwarming way to reflect and celebrate together,” she said.
