Spring has officially arrived in China, and Dubai is preparing to mark the occasion with the return of the “Warm Spring Welcome Happy Chinese New Year” Grand Parade at Expo City Dubai on February 8.

The annual celebration will feature traditional performances, cultural showcases and festive displays welcoming the Year of the Horse. This year’s event holds added significance as the Chinese Spring Festival coincides with Ramadan, highlighting Dubai’s unique ability to bring cultures together.

The event was unveiled by Ou Boqian, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai, alongside Mohammad Feras Arayqat, Vice President at Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.

“The Year of the Horse symbolises energy, optimism and fresh beginnings, values that align strongly with Dubai’s spirit,” Arayqat said, noting the shared cultural importance of horses in both Chinese and Islamic traditions.

Parade and Festivities

Festivities will begin at 10am with cultural displays, showcases and a festival fair. Visitors are encouraged to arrive around midday, ahead of the main parade starting at 3pm.

The 40-minute parade will feature traditional Chinese dancers, real horses, a showcase of Chinese automobiles, and more than 20 formations, similar to previous editions. Performances include dances from Xinjiang, a Song Dynasty wedding ceremony, and a Ming Dynasty tea ceremony.

Beyond the parade, 60 kiosks will offer Chinese cuisine, crafts and souvenirs.

Evening Concert and Cultural Focus

Celebrations will continue until 7 pm, culminating in a concert at the Wasl Dome featuring the Jilin Provincial Culture and Art Troupe alongside the UAE Firdaus Orchestra. Tickets for the concert have sold out.

This year’s event highlights Xinjiang, China’s autonomous region closest to the UAE, with direct flights taking approximately five hours. Each annual celebration spotlights a different Chinese province to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.

Abu Dhabi Celebrations

Those looking to celebrate in Abu Dhabi can attend the “Happy Chinese New Year” Grand Gala on February 6 at the Sheikh Zayed Festival.

The Abu Dhabi event will feature three shows at 6:50pm, 8pm and 9pm, with performances by the Jilin Provincial Culture and Art Troupe, Hunan acrobats, and a fireworks display at around 9:30pm.

Ras Al Khaimah “Happy Chinese New Year” Fireworks Show

Ras Al Khaimah will light up the night sky with a “Happy Chinese New Year” fireworks show on February 8, from 8pm, at Marjan Island, marking the emirate’s first-ever display by Liuyang, Hunan, one of China’s most renowned fireworks producers.

The spectacular show will feature dazzling, star-like fireworks symbolising blessings, hope and prosperity for the New Year, offering residents and visitors a memorable celebration.