As the seasons change and the years advance, the UAE-China Cultural Center’s WeChat official account, established in May 2024, has quietly amassed a substantial following. Each click and interaction from its audience has reinforced the center’s mission, with its growth deeply intertwined with the support and engagement of its community.
Standing at the threshold of a new year, the center reflects on the significant milestones of 2024, highlighting a year filled with vibrant cultural exchanges and collaborative tourism initiatives between China and the United Arab Emirates. Looking forward, the center envisions even greater achievements in fostering cultural ties and expanding tourism cooperation between the two nations.
1. “Joyous Spring Festival” Series of Events
From January to February 2024, the UAE-China Cultural Center partnered with prominent cultural and educational institutions such as Ferrari Theme Park, the Louvre, Galleria Mall, Umm Park, the Middle East Chinese Academy, and Eton International Academy. Together, they hosted a variety of “Joyous Spring Festival” activities, including temple fairs, flash mobs, intangible cultural heritage experiences, and artistic performances. The center also supported the Central Ballet’s performance of “Guonian” in the UAE and facilitated the Xinjiang Song and Dance Troupe’s rendition of “Xinjiang is a Good Place” during Dubai’s grand “Joyous Spring Festival” parade.
2. Participation in the 2024 Arab Tourism Exhibition
In May 2024, the center organized a Chinese delegation to showcase at the Arab Tourism Exhibition, promoting the theme “Hello! China.” Additionally, a memorandum of understanding was signed with Emirates Airline to collaboratively advance the promotion of Chinese tourism, strengthening bilateral tourism ties.
3. Supporting National-Level Art Troupes’ Inaugural Visits
Throughout 2024, the center assisted the Chinese Embassy in the UAE in supporting the Central Ballet, China Symphony Orchestra, and Oriental Performing Arts Group. These national-level troupes made their first visits to the Gulf region, performing in key locations such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah, thereby enhancing cultural diplomacy and artistic exchange.
4. “A Beautiful Encounter Between Chinese Tea and Arabian Coffee” Event
In June 2024, under the theme “A Beautiful Encounter Between Chinese Tea and Arabian Coffee,” the center hosted the “Tea and the World·Elegant Gathering” at the Arab Handicrafts House Museum. This event celebrated the harmonious blend of Chinese and Arabian traditions through tea and coffee ceremonies.
5. Comprehensive Performances in September
September saw the organization of “Together at This Time·Hunan Appointment with UAE” performances in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. The center also promoted the “Together at This Time” project at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Additionally, a “Mid-Autumn Poetry Gathering” was held, featuring performances by Chinese and Arab children and culture enthusiasts, fostering shared cultural experiences centered around the “Mid-Autumn Reunion.”
6. “Hello! China – Million Tourists Mutual Visit Plan” Promotion
In October 2024, the center held the “Hello! China – Million Tourists Mutual Visit Plan” promotional conference in Dubai. The following month, it organized participation from travel businesses across Gulf countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, in the 2024 China International Tourism Trade Fair, facilitating ground visits and enhancing tourism partnerships.
7. AGC Esports Competition and China Film Week
November 2024 featured the hosting of China Film Week in Abu Dhabi and collaboration with the Ras Al Khaimah AGC All-Star Esports Competition. Utilizing multiple platforms, the center promoted the “nihao! china” brand, merging the realms of cinema and esports to engage a diverse audience.
8. 40th Anniversary of China-UAE Diplomatic Relations
As a special supporting unit, the center partnered with the UAE Presidential Office National Projects Office to commemorate the 40th anniversary of China-UAE diplomatic relations. This celebration underscored four decades of strong bilateral ties and mutual cooperation.
9. Innovative Inbound Tourism Promotion Activities
Throughout 2024, the center supported a variety of innovative inbound tourism promotion activities across the UAE, highlighting destinations such as Xinjiang, Hainan, Sichuan, Beijing, Dalian, and Hebei. Additionally, it facilitated the participation of Chinese enterprises in the GITEX Communications Exhibition and organized matchmaking events for key cultural and tourism enterprises and projects.
The UAE-China Cultural Center’s comprehensive efforts in 2024 have significantly bolstered cultural understanding and tourism collaboration between China and the UAE. As the center looks ahead, it remains committed to fostering deeper cultural ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation, anticipating a future of continued growth and mutual enrichment.
