On January 31, 2025, the “Happy Chinese New Year” temple fair was held on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi. Attendees at the opening ceremony included Li Xiaodong, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in the UAE; Ali, Senior Vice President of Mubadala Investment Company and Chairman of Al Maryah Retail Company; and Derek, Director of Real Estate at Mubadala Investment Company.
In his speech, Counselor Li Xiaodong extended New Year greetings for the Year of the Snake to both Chinese and foreign guests. He noted that the Spring Festival, China’s most significant traditional holiday, is increasingly recognized and celebrated worldwide, including in the UAE, where the festive atmosphere is becoming more pronounced. Since its inaugural event in 2014, the Al Maryah Spring Festival Temple Fair has been a popular celebration in the UAE. China welcomes and supports UAE entities, represented by Mubadala Investment Company, in expanding cooperation with China, thereby contributing to the development of China-UAE relations.
The annual Al Maryah Island New Year Temple Fair attracts a large number of both Chinese and international visitors, many attending with their families. Guests can savor traditional Chinese delicacies such as candied hawthorn skewers and soup dumplings, offering both warmth and nostalgia. The event also features vibrant cultural performances, including stilt walking, lion dances, face-changing acts, and kung fu demonstrations, creating a festive and lively atmosphere. Additionally, visitors can take part in a variety of interactive experiences, such as crafting Chinese knots, making bracelets and sachets, sugar painting, tea ceremonies, and painting, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the unique charm of Chinese New Year culture.
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The Al Maryah Island Chinese New Year Temple Fair will be held from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at the AMI South Plaza. The event will take place daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
