Chinese New Year, or in Chinese called Spring Festival, is one of the largest cultural events that are celebrated around the world. For its colourful celebrations, flavorful food and its historic and cultural significance, this holiday is a celebration of rebirth, success, and community. In the crème of cosmopolitan cities such as Dubai where people of different cultures from all corners of the world reside, the Chinese New Year celebration.
It’s Significance
Chinese New Year is celebrated at the start of the Lunar Calendar. There are traditions based on the ancestors’ customs: it is believed that the cleanliness of the house helps to get rid of bad luck; it is also necessary to hang red things somewhere in the house; people also organize a family dinner on such a day.
Food is very central in this occasion as the symbol of plenty, good health, and prosperity. Every dish has a symbolism; the dumplings symbolize wealth, the noodles longevity and the fish surplus. While people in China celebrate their New Year at home, people in modern and international cities such as Dubai can get real Chinese New Year experience in restaurants and other events.
- Chinese New Year celebrated in Dubai. Perhaps nobody celebrates the Chinese New Year like Dubai, a city that prides itself in its ethnic diversity as well as a thriving food industry. People living or those who are planning to visit this area can engage in different programs and actions which are in some way connected with the traditions of this holiday.
- Holiday Ornaments And Lights Everywhere: From red lanterns and dragon motifs in malls or buildings to lighted streets, Dubai changes its looks during the Chinese New Year celebration. See, for instance, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall which usually use lights on this occasion.
- Cultural Performances: Lion and dragon dance commonly characterized by drum and cymbal, are perhaps the most memorable aspects of the celebrations. These performances signify blessings of fortune and are annually held in shopping centres, hotels, and the Hawaiian and Polynesian culture festivities all over the city.
- Dining Experiences: Food is always a major aspect of Chinese New Year and Dubai has countless restaurants where you can sample traditional Chinese food. Be it a luxurious Chinese restaurant or an eating joint, several restaurants offer traditional Chinese food.
Finding the Right Restaurant for Chinese New Year in Dubai
Chinese cuisine has a richness in its representation in Dubai which is why it is possible to find lots of restaurants that provide festive menus and a special New Year atmosphere. Whether it is a grand banquet or a homely dinner, the city offers a solution to all customers.
- Hakkasan: Hakkasan is a restaurant, situated in the Atlantis. It is popular for its beautiful interior design and set dishes.
- Shang Palace: Featuring the excellence of Chinese cuisine, Shang Palace is located inside Shangri-La Dubai. During Chinese New Year special dishes are prepared based on Chinese New Year special recipes which include; braised abalone, longevity noodles, and golden dumplings.
- Royal China: Royal China is situated in DIFC and balances traditional Chinese food and contemporary Chinese food. Its festive dishes are standard dishes such as steamed sea bass, crispy duck, stir-fried lobster and other dishes which are dished out in rich styles.
- Din Tai Fung: For a more relaxed, yet equally satisfying meal go to Din Tai Fung, an international restaurant which focuses on dumplings and noodles. Special Chinese New Year dishes prepared according to traditional methods constitute a part of this restaurant’s menu.
- Long Teng Seafood Restaurant: Over time Long Teng, based in Business Bay, is offering special meals to mark the Lunar New Year season for seafood lovers. They specialise in seafood and hot pots which are prepared fresh and their dinner is perfect for a family.
Chinese New Year Foods That You Should Not Miss
When dining out for Chinese New Year in Dubai, make sure to try these symbolic dishes:
- Dumplings: Having a meaning of richness, the dumplings resemble the old forms of money – ingots of gold. It is a common belief that if one eats them then prosperity will be his portion.
- Longevity Noodles: These are long noodles symbolizing long life, and ought to be sold uncut as well.
- Fish: The head, tail and its whole format are symbolically synonymous with qualities of plenty. Ideally served steamed with a little soy sauce and ginger to enhance its flavour but it is mild.
- Sticky Rice Cake (Nian Gao): It represents prosperity in the following year and is a sweet dish.
- Spring Rolls: This food has a golden yellow color and round cylindrical appearance and is synonymous with the festival because of its bar-like appearance.
Useful information on how to have fun in Chinese New Year in Dubai
- Book Early: Special Chinese restaurants in Dubai are preferred during Chinese New Year, so do not hesitate to book a table in advance.
- Dress for the Occasion: It is suggested to wear red, which is the symbol of luck and happiness for ancient Chinese people.
- Participate in Events: Celebratory activities such as cultural shows, dances, cooking competitions and demonstrations form part of what you can experience.
- Share the Experience: Chinese New Year is the celebration of togetherness, therefore do it with your loved ones.
The Spirit of Togetherness
Chinese New Year is not simply a festival but a culture of reunion, luck, and renewal. Dubai being one of the most vibrant cities in the world has its celebrations emulating the culture of the world, past and present. Whether it is a lion dance show, a firework show or eating at the most popular restaurant for Chinese New Year in Dubai, then people of all ages are sure to love the celebration.
With the Lunar New Year around the corner, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy a festive mood in full. Whether you are eating representative dishes, looking at gorgeous decorations, or just enjoying the atmosphere of the city.
