In the heart of Ras Al Khaimah, photographer David Learman undergoes an annual transformation that captivates children across the UAE. For a decade, Learman has meticulously grown his pale white beard each September, evolving into what many describe as the region’s most authentic Santa Claus embodiment.
With his meticulously tailored red-and-white suit, polished spectacles, and festive hat, Learman’s appearance rivals storybook depictions of the beloved Christmas figure. This December marks his busiest season yet with approximately 35 bookings, intensifying to 4-5 daily engagements as Christmas approaches. While some appearances occur in private residences, most bookings are hosted by hotels seeking to create magical holiday experiences.
The emotional reward, not financial gain, drives Learman’s dedication. ‘The spark in a child’s eyes when they receive a gift, their tentative tugs at my beard, their wondering questions about my authenticity—these moments create the real magic,’ he reflects. His photography business provides scheduling flexibility, allowing him to balance commercial work with his seasonal Santa commitments alongside his wife through their creative agency.
Learman’s experiences reveal fascinating cultural intersections. During an appearance at Al Jazeera Al Hamra’s Heritage Village, he discovered enthusiastic participation from Emirati families eager to capture photographs with Santa. However, one corporate-organized event presented what he termed a ‘surreal’ scenario: children from non-Christian backgrounds being encouraged to sing carols foreign to their cultural traditions. ‘This commercial exploitation of cultural symbolism felt inappropriate,’ Learman noted, criticizing the event company’s profit-driven approach to holiday programming.
Come December 26th, Learman promptly visits his barber to remove the iconic beard—though not before granting the shop’s request for a final Santa-clad photograph. His journey demonstrates how cultural traditions adapt in multicultural societies, creating authentic connections while navigating commercial influences.