Dubai is set to welcome one of its most colourful cultural celebrations as Expo City Dubai prepares to host Chinese New Year 2026 with a full-day programme of parades, performances, and festivities. The event takes place on February 8, bringing together tradition, entertainment, and community spirit in one of the city’s most recognisable venues.
The celebration, titled “Warm Spring Welcome · Happy Chinese New Year”, marks the arrival of spring in China and continues Dubai’s tradition of embracing global cultures through public festivals. With Expo City now firmly positioned as a hub for large-scale cultural events, the Chinese New Year celebration is expected to draw residents and visitors from across the UAE.
This year’s event also carries added cultural relevance, as Chinese New Year coincides with Ramadan in 2026, highlighting Dubai’s ability to balance and celebrate diverse traditions side by side.
A Full Day of Festivities at Expo City Dubai
Activities begin at 10 am, transforming Expo City Dubai into a lively cultural space filled with displays, performances, and interactive experiences. Visitors can explore the venue throughout the day, with cultural showcases and themed installations setting the tone early on.
Organisers recommend arriving by midday to enjoy the full experience at a relaxed pace. The hours leading up to the main parade offer time to browse stalls, watch smaller performances, and soak in the festival atmosphere before crowds build later in the afternoon.
Expo City’s open layout and walkable zones make it an ideal venue for such large celebrations, especially for families and groups looking for an accessible day out.
The Grand Parade Takes Centre Stage
The main highlight of the celebration is the Chinese New Year Grand Parade, scheduled to begin at 3pm. Running for approximately 40 minutes, the parade blends traditional Chinese dance with modern visual elements designed to appeal to a wide audience.
Dancers in vibrant costumes lead the procession, accompanied by rhythmic performances that bring the parade route to life. This year’s theme draws inspiration from the Year of the Horse, with symbolic elements woven into the choreography and presentation.
One of the most talked-about features is the appearance of real horses, a rare sight at cultural parades in the city. The inclusion adds a striking and literal interpretation of the zodiac theme, making the parade a standout moment for spectators.
Cultural Performances Rooted in History
Beyond the parade, visitors can expect a curated line-up of performances inspired by Chinese history. A traditional wedding ceremony performance, influenced by the Song Dynasty, will be presented by the Xinjiang dance group, offering insight into historical customs and storytelling through movement.
A refined tea ceremony inspired by the Ming Dynasty provides a quieter cultural experience, allowing guests to engage with a more reflective side of the celebration. These performances are designed to be short, engaging, and accessible, even for those unfamiliar with Chinese traditions.
Together, they offer a balanced programme that combines spectacle with cultural depth.
Street Food, Shopping, and Festival Energy
Food and shopping remain central to the experience, with around 60 kiosks set up across the venue. Visitors can sample Chinese street food favourites, explore festive snacks, and browse handmade crafts and souvenirs.
The marketplace atmosphere keeps the energy high throughout the day, encouraging guests to move between performances, food stalls, and social spaces. For many, this part of the event is just as appealing as the scheduled shows, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the celebrations.
Evening Concert at Al Wasl Dome
The festival concludes at 7 pm with a live concert at Al Wasl Dome, featuring the Jilin Provincial Culture and Art Troupe alongside the UAE’s Firdaus Orchestra. The collaboration blends Chinese musical heritage with regional influences, reflecting Dubai’s multicultural creative scene.
Tickets for the concert were released in advance and have already sold out, pointing to strong interest from residents. Organisers have hinted at a special surprise element during the evening, adding anticipation to the finale.
More Chinese New Year Events Across the UAE
Celebrations are not limited to Expo City Dubai. Earlier events include a Spring Festival gala organised by the Chinese community on February 4 at 7 pm.
On February 6, the “Happy Chinese New Year” Grand Gala will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi, with performances scheduled at 6:50 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm, followed by fireworks at 9:30 pm.
These events reflect the growing presence of Chinese New Year celebrations across the UAE’s cultural calendar.
With its mix of parades, performances, food, and live music, Expo City Dubai Chinese New Year 2026 stands out as one of the most anticipated cultural events of February. It offers residents and visitors a meaningful way to experience global traditions without leaving the city.
For those planning their weekends or looking for memorable things to do, the celebration adds depth to Dubai’s local news, travel, food and lifestyle scene.
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