$11million Christmas Tree in Abu-dhabi

‘Tis the season the empty your wallet—as if it wasn’t empty enough already. Despite any global economic crises or increase in poverty levels across the globe, this year marks the unveiling of yet another world’s most expensive Christmas tree. In the heart of the Arabian peninsula, and the Islamic world, the most expensive Christmas tree has been put up. A sign of the times, maybe, a sign of tolerance, probably, a sign of unnecessary extravagance, definitely. Set in an elaborate hotel known as the Emirate Palace in Abu- Dhabi, the13-meter (40-foot) faux evergreen, located in the gold leaf-bedecked rotunda of the hotel, is decorated with silver and gold bows, ball-shaped ornaments and small white lights and is majestically placed in the center for all to admire. It is also adorned with necklaces, earrings and other jewelery draped around the tree’s branches and contribute to its hefty price tag.It holds a total of 181 diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires and other precious stones, said Khalifa Khouri, owner of Style Gallery, which provided the jewelery.

 This hotel has been known for its over the top style including gold dispensing vending machines. Its inclusion in the Guinness book of world records for this accomplishment is certainly not the first but a mere addition to its record breaking other expensive and lavish items.

When the hotel general manager Hans Olbertz was asked the inspiration for this idea, he said that he came up with the idea of the Christmas tree because he wanted the hotel to do something new for the season.

“The tree itself is about 10,000 dollars,” Olbertz said. “The jewellery has a value of over 11 million dollars — I think 11.4, 11.5.”

The hotel, which bills itself as seven-star, in February introduced a package for a seven-day stay priced at one million dollars. Takers of the package have a private butler and a chauffeur driven Maybach luxury car at their disposal during their stay, as well as a private jet available for trips to other countries in the region.

Talk about living the High life!