In a country where Wahhabi scholars strictly prohibit any form of love or celebration for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), massive financial resources are annually allocated to combat any idea of commemorating the Prophet’s birthday through recounting his biography or praising him. No one is even allowed to distribute dates or prayer beads across the kingdom on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal. Meanwhile, Christmas trees are publicly erected to mark a day when the People of the Book claim the birth of the son of God!
The Wall Street Journal reported on Christmas celebrations in Saudi Arabia for the first time in the kingdom’s history, after authorities permitted the setting up of Christmas trees and decorations this year.
As part of the so-called “openness” policy recently adopted by the kingdom, stores in Riyadh displayed artificial fir trees, with shoppers able to find them alongside Santa hats and reindeer headbands.
Restaurants have also begun offering Christmas cakes, particularly the Italian “Panettone” traditionally prepared for the New Year.
Furniture stores now feature displays of wreaths and red candles, and some hotels have designed their interior courtyards to reflect Christmas celebrations, with many including a large Christmas tree.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the price of a plastic fir tree reached $3,000.
Saudi Arabia previously prohibited the public practice of any religion other than Islam. However, earlier this year, Saudi government advisor Ali Shihabi announced plans to build a church in Saudi Arabia, with no official confirmation or denial from the authorities.
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