To facilitate the work and daily life of foreign business professionals in China, multiple departments, including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Ministry of Commerce, have recently updated and compiled the “Guide for Foreign Business Professionals Working and Living in China (2025 Edition).”
The guide is divided into four sections: precautions, daily life services, residence services, and work-related services in China. It covers various matters such as accommodation registration, SIM card acquisition, bank account setup, residence permits, work permits, social insurance, mobile payment activation, transportation, and personal income tax payment.
Additionally, it includes new information on cash payments in RMB, visa-free transit for foreign travelers coming to China, and the application process for the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao residents (for non-Chinese nationals). The guide serves as a reference for foreign business professionals working and living in China.
Open: The guide for Foreign Business Professionals Working and Living in China (2025 Edition)
To celebrate the Chinese New Year, guided by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, and supported by the Chinese Embassy in the UAE and the Consulate General of China in Dubai, multiple “Happy Spring Festival” events will be held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, UAE.
1.”Warm Welcome Spring · Happy Spring Festival” Chinese New Energy Vehicle Parade and Celebration
- Starting Location: Dubai Equestrian Club
- Departure Ceremony: January 25, 15:00
- Ending Location: Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Festival
- Closing Ceremony: January 25, 19:30
2. “Nihao!China” China Snow and Ice Tourism Overseas Promotion Season
- Location: Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Festival
- Time: January 25, 16:00 until closing
3. “Happy Spring Festival” Ferrari World Theme Park Chinese New Year Celebration
- Location: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Red Theater
- Time: January 26, 13:00-15:00
4. “Happy Spring Festival · Sichuan Lanterns Shine Globally” Zigong Lantern Global Tour in UAE
- Location: Abu Dhabi Umm Al Emarat Park
- Exhibition Time: January 24 to February 1, 18:30-22:00
- Opening Ceremony: January 26, 20:00-21:00
5. Dubai Expo City Chinese New Year Concert
- Location: Dubai Al Wasl Plaza
- Time: January 26, 19:30-21:30
6. Abu Dhabi Al Maryah Island “Chinese New Year Temple Fair”
- Location: Abu Dhabi Galleria Mall, South Plaza of the Financial Center
- Time: January 31 – February 2, 16:00-22:00
- Opening Ceremony: January 31, 16:00
7. “With Lanterns as Medium · Talking Friendship” Lantern Festival
- Location: Dubai Al Marmoom Oasis
- Lantern Festival Time: February 8-15, 16:00-22:00
- Opening Ceremony: February 8, 16:00-19:00
8. “Encounter Among Flowers” An Exquisite Assembly in the Song Dynasty
- Location: China Pavilion, Expo 2020 Dubai Exhibition City
- Time: February 15-16, 10:00-12:00,14:00-17:00
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.
Abu Dhabi, December 15, 2024 – Marking the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the United Arab Emirates, the China Symphony Orchestra delivered a landmark performance at the Emirate Palace Hotel Theatre in Abu Dhabi on December 14.
Invited by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, the concert was attended by a distinguished audience including Chinese Ambassador to the UAE Zhang Yiming and his wife Zhu Naizhen, Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation Chair Hu Da and his spouse, Sharjah’s Princess Lubna, and Yin Bo, deputy leader of the China Symphony Orchestra. The event also welcomed UAE political and business leaders, cultural figures, nearly 20 ambassadors from various nations, representatives from Chinese-funded institutions, educators, and close to a thousand Chinese expatriate students.
Serving as the grand finale of a series of diplomatic events and the closing performance for the 2024 Abu Dhabi International Festival’s China Guest Country activities, the concert featured an impressive lineup. Conducted by Jing Huan, the orchestra’s permanent conductor, and featuring Paganini International Violin Competition champion Ning Feng as the soloist, this performance marked the China Symphony Orchestra’s first full-scale tour in the Middle East.
The evening commenced with renditions of both countries’ national anthems, followed by a collaborative performance of “Yabahar,” a composition by renowned UAE composer Ihab, alongside a local Emirati ensemble, which garnered enthusiastic applause. The audience was then moved by the classic “Butterfly Lovers” concerto and the melodious “Arabian Nights,” inspired by the legendary tales of “One Thousand and One Nights,” offering an enchanting musical journey.
In the concert’s finale, the orchestra returned to the stage to perform “Russian Dance” and “Jasmine” in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Youth Orchestra, bringing the evening to a triumphant close amid warm applause.
Concurrently, the Chinese Embassy in the UAE and the UAE China Cultural Center hosted a Sino-Arab Friendship Photo Exhibition alongside the concert, showcasing the rich cultural collaborations between the two nations.
The event was covered by major media outlets including People’s Daily, Xinhua, China Central Television, Economic Daily, China-Arab Satellite TV, UAE News Agency, and Ain News, highlighting the strong cultural and diplomatic bonds between China and the UAE.
Dubai, UAE — On December 9, the Chinese Consulate General in Dubai, in collaboration with the Hebei Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and the UAE China Cultural Center, hosted the “Meet Hebei – Chinese Consulate General Intangible Cultural Heritage Open Day” event. Over 100 guests attended, including dignitaries, academics, students, and representatives of Chinese and international enterprises in Dubai.
The event highlighted the rich intangible cultural heritage of Hebei Province, showcasing a vibrant blend of craftsmanship, music, and artistry. Attendees included Ou Boqian, the Consul General of China in Dubai; Li Xinjie, Deputy Director of Hebei’s Department of Culture and Tourism; Dr. Al Naqbi, Chancellor of Khorfakkan University; and Hussein, Principal of Dubai Charity School, along with faculty and students from the University of Dubai, University of Sharjah, and Fujairah University.
Cultural Diplomacy Strengthening Ties
In her opening remarks, Consul General Ou Boqian emphasized the importance of intangible cultural heritage as a cornerstone of a nation’s identity and history. “Passed down through generations, these traditions embody the ingenuity and wisdom of the Chinese people. They reflect the harmony between humanity and nature that lies at the heart of Chinese philosophy,” she noted.
Ou also underscored the significance of the event in the broader context of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE. “Through activities like this, we aim to foster cultural exchange and deepen the understanding and friendship between our two peoples,” she said.
Li Xinjie echoed these sentiments, highlighting Hebei Province’s cultural richness. “Hebei is a gateway for international friends to explore China’s history and culture. With its stunning natural scenery, historic landmarks, and diverse folk traditions, Hebei offers a vivid portrait of our heritage,” he said.
An Interactive Journey into Chinese Artistry
The event offered an immersive experience, with six artisans from Hebei demonstrating traditional crafts, including:
- Iron Plate Reliefs, a delicate and intricate metalworking art.
- Traditional Incense Crafting, blending ancient techniques with natural fragrances.
- Beijing Embroidery (Jingxiu), renowned for its exquisite precision.
- Fengning Manchu Paper-Cutting, showcasing the intricate beauty of Chinese folk art.
- Ding Porcelain, famous for its fine, creamy-white ceramics.
- Teng’s Cloth Paintings, a unique fusion of fabric and traditional artistry.
Guests were invited to try their hand at these crafts while hearing stories of their cultural significance and evolution.
Mesmerizing Performances Captivate Audience
The celebration also featured a series of traditional performances that enthralled the audience. Highlights included:
- A Guzheng solo, offering the tranquil yet powerful melodies of the Chinese zither.
- A rousing Suona performance, blending jubilant and soulful tones.
- The breathtaking Wu Qiao Acrobatics, a hallmark of Hebei’s artistic talent.
- Magic Shows that delighted both young and old with their playful creativity.
Strengthening Cultural Bridges
The event concluded with widespread praise from attendees. Representatives of Chinese enterprises and local institutions expressed admiration for the depth and beauty of Hebei’s cultural heritage. The day was seen as a meaningful step in enhancing the cultural dialogue between China and the UAE, resonating with the theme of shared humanity and mutual respect.
As the UAE and China continue to mark 40 years of diplomatic ties, events like “Meet Hebei” underscore the enduring power of culture to connect hearts across borders.
The Chinese Spring Festival, one of the world’s most vibrant and cherished celebrations, has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. The announcement came on December 4, 2024, marking a significant milestone in recognizing the festival’s profound cultural and global significance.
A Celebration of Family, Harmony, and Renewal
The Spring Festival, also known as Lunar New Year, is celebrated by millions worldwide. It is famed for its rich traditions, including dragon dances, dazzling lantern displays, and sumptuous feasts. Central to the festival is the Chunyun, or “spring migration,” the largest human migration on Earth, as families reunite to welcome the new year together.
“The Spring Festival is a celebration of hope and renewal,” UNESCO noted in its announcement. “Its traditions emphasize harmony, happiness, and the enduring bonds of family, making it a cornerstone of intangible cultural heritage.”
A Legacy of Timeless Traditions
Spanning 15 days, the festival culminates with the Lantern Festival, a breathtaking display of illuminated artistry. Customs such as setting off firecrackers, enjoying symbolic dishes like dumplings, and exchanging hongbao (red envelopes) reflect the depth of its cultural heritage.
The festival’s inclusion on UNESCO’s list highlights its universal values. It is celebrated not only in China but also in communities around the world, from Singapore to San Francisco, uniting diverse cultures in a shared embrace of new beginnings.
Global Recognition, Shared Joy
The designation is seen as a testament to the Spring Festival’s role in fostering cultural understanding and connection. Chinese officials hailed the announcement as a proud moment for their heritage, while UNESCO emphasized the importance of preserving such traditions for future generations.
As the world prepares to welcome the Year of the Dragon in 2024, this recognition adds an extra layer of significance to the celebrations. For many, it is not just a festival—it is a powerful reminder of the enduring ties that connect people across time and borders.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – November 18, 2024
The much-anticipated Sixth UAE-China Film Week commenced at the VOX Cinema in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, marking another milestone in cultural exchange between China and the UAE. The event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in the UAE and the National Film Administration of China, was hosted by the UAE China Cultural Center and the China Film Archive.
The opening ceremony brought together over 200 attendees, including China’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zhang Yiming; Deputy Director of China’s National Film Administration, Lu Liang; and Mohammed, Director of Media Regulation and Content Services at the UAE National Media Council. Delegates from various countries, members of the UAE film industry, and film enthusiasts from both nations also attended the event.
Strengthening Bonds Through Cinema
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Zhang Yiming emphasized the power of cinema as a medium for cultural dialogue and mutual understanding:
“Cinema is the art of light and aesthetics, a vital bridge for exchanges between civilizations. The UAE-China Film Week has become a significant window for Emirati audiences to learn about and experience China. We look forward to further strengthening cooperation in film, music, and arts to deepen the cultural bond between our nations.”
Celebrity Appearances and Interactive Highlights
The event featured virtual greetings from renowned Chinese actors such as Jackie Chan, Wei Xiang, Shi Ce, Meng Qingyang, and Zhang Han, who expressed their support and best wishes for the film week. The evening kicked off with the screening of the opening film, Panda Plan, followed by an engaging Q&A session with the film’s creators, Zhang Luan and Han Yanbo, who interacted with an enthusiastic Emirati audience.
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE — On November 16, 2024, the AGC (AppGallery Gamers Cup) All-Star Esports Tournament took center stage in Ras Al Khaimah, combining the excitement of competitive gaming with the allure of Chinese culture and tourism. Supported by the UAE China Cultural Center, the event featured the “Nihao! China” tourism promotion campaign, bringing a distinct Chinese flavor to the vibrant esports scene in the Middle East.
The event was attended by Prince Sultan, Chairman of the UAE Esports Federation, who delivered opening remarks, along with over 400 esports enthusiasts from both China and the UAE.
Esports Meets Cultural Diplomacy
The AGC All-Star Esports Tournament is a renowned competition that has been hosted across multiple Middle Eastern countries. This year’s event spotlighted PUBG Mobile and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), two of the most popular games in the global esports arena.
The competition brought together 36 professional players across eight teams, selected from a pool of over 500 online registrants. Additionally, more than 20 influencers and streamers amplified the tournament’s reach, contributing to an online exposure exceeding 15 million views.
This innovative fusion of esports with the “Nihao! China” tourism campaign showcased China’s cultural charm to a younger audience. From themed branding to interactive cultural elements, the event captivated local fans, sparking a growing curiosity about Chinese culture and tourism destinations.
A Cultural and Digital Milestone
The tournament exemplified how esports can serve as a platform for cultural exchange. Local media in Ras Al Khaimah and major social media platforms extensively covered the event, highlighting its unique blend of high-energy competition and cultural storytelling.
The UAE China Cultural Center’s creative approach to integrating tourism branding with esports resonated strongly with attendees. Many young gaming enthusiasts left the event not only inspired by the intense matches but also eager to explore the history, traditions, and destinations of China.
As esports continues to thrive in the Middle East, initiatives like this underscore the potential of gaming to build bridges between cultures, showcasing the dynamic relationship between China and the UAE.
Abu Dhabi, UAE — On November 1, 2024, the National Theatre in Abu Dhabi came alive with a spectacular cultural gala commemorating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the United Arab Emirates. The event, jointly hosted by the Chinese Embassy in the UAE, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Culture, featured the enchanting “A Millennium of Songs” concert, a celebration of traditional Chinese music and culture.
The gala was organized by the China Oriental Performing Arts Group and the UAE China Cultural Center and brought together over 1,000 attendees. Guests included Chinese Ambassador to the UAE Zhang Yiming and his wife Zhu Naizhen, UAE Minister of State for Culture Naji, Princess Lubna of Sharjah, Huda, Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Cultural and Arts Foundation, Assistant Secretary-General of the UAE Federal National Council Afra, as well as diplomats, UAE dignitaries, Chinese expatriates, and representatives from Chinese enterprises and academic institutions.
A Tribute to 40 Years of Partnership
In his welcome address, Ambassador Zhang Yiming highlighted the historic significance of November 1, 1984, when China and the UAE officially established diplomatic relations. “Forty years ago, China and the UAE took a historic step forward in establishing diplomatic ties, demonstrating the wisdom and foresight of our leaders,” said Zhang.
He noted that over the past four decades, the two nations have fostered a relationship grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and common interests. “Our partnership has become a model of inter-state relations, built on mutual understanding and collaboration. We look forward to the continued growth of our friendship, as we embark on another 40 years of shared achievements,” he added.
Cultural Diplomacy at Its Best
The evening’s program was a showcase of China’s rich cultural heritage. The “A Millennium of Songs” concert featured performances by the prestigious China Oriental Performing Arts Group, blending ancient Chinese musical traditions with contemporary artistry. Guests were treated to mesmerizing vocal and instrumental pieces that embodied the essence of Chinese culture, offering a bridge of understanding between the two nations.
The event underscored the deep cultural ties between China and the UAE, reaffirming the strength of their bilateral relations as both nations continue to explore new avenues of cooperation and exchange.
As the curtain closed on this memorable evening, it marked not just a celebration of the past 40 years but also a promise of a brighter, more collaborative future for China and the UAE.
