$11 million Christmas tree in Abu Dhabi
The most expensive Christmas tree in the world could well be in the lobby of the Emirates Palace hotel in Abu Dhabi, the capital and largest city in the United Arab Emirates.
The natural tree is 13 meters high and originally cost $10,000, but after adding some very expensive sparkling decorations, the tree has appreciated so much in value, it may land in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The tree is draped with almost $11 million worth of necklaces, watches and bracelets sporting more than 180 diamonds, pearls, sapphires, emeralds and other precious gems.
Ironically, the UAE is predominantly Muslim, but since their guests are from every part of the globe, the hotel undertook this Christian holiday display primarily as a marketing tool.
The Emirates Palace is known for this type of luxury marketing, and in the past has promoted a $1 million Valentine’s Day package, not to mention the world’s first gold vending machine.