The preparations to celebrate the Chinese New Year Dubai are going in full swing. Dubai can turn the traditional festivals into a citywide fiesta. Further, along with the authentic customs and Chinese New Year events, the Gulf city, this year, is also celebrating the arrival of Ramadan, which brings cultural diversity to the place. Additionally, this is the Year of the Fire Horse, a rare and powerful zodiac year in the Chinese calendar. This year has returned in 60 years with its own special symbolism and energy. So, read the blog and plan the visit!
Where is the Chinese New Year Dubai Celebrated?
There are a variety of places in Dubai where you will find lively celebrations taking place. Furthermore, here are some of the best places for the Chinese New Year in Dubai that you can explore:
Expo City Dubai
Event Periods: 16–22 February 2026
The Expo City Dubai becomes the centre for cultural shows and is most chosen by families to enjoy. Watch the dragon and lion dances, hear the melodious Chinese music and become part of the craft sessions in the interactive programs at Chinese New Year events.
Dragon Mart
Event periods: 14 February 2026 onward | Peak performances from 16 to 18 February.
Enjoy the traditional decorations like red lanterns, zodiac displays and installations. Along with these activities, try the calligraphy and craft workshops. Additionally, there are also lion dance performances and retail promotions going on all around.
Major Malls of Dubai
- The Dubai Mall: During Chinese New Year, The Dubai Mall usually inystalls red and gold themed decorations and large lantern displays in the main atrium areas. In addition, the visitors can expect scheduled lion dance performances and short cultural shows.
- Mall of the Emirates: Along with the Lunar New Year Dubai celebrations, this mall features the Chinese New Year décor along with live cultural performances in central event spaces. You will get to watch the Lion dances and traditional music shows may take place on New Year’s Day or during the festival week.
- City Centre Mirdif: City Centre Mirdif generally marks the occasion with themed decorations and family-friendly activities. Cultural performances such as lion dances are often scheduled over the New Year weekend. Additionally, the retail outlets may offer festive discounts and themed shopping campaigns.
Global Village
Expected Periods: 15–22 February
The grand Global Village, a seasonal attraction of Dubai, is famous for the combination of a variety of cultures. Further, this place takes the Lunar New Year Dubai celebrations to the next level. Enjoy the cultural performances, pavilion activities and shop till you drop for the themed merchandise here.
Starting Price: 30 AED
Note: Make the changes as per your travel plans with the options of customisation in the itinerary!
Enquire - Global Village Ticket Dubai
What are the Types of Chinese New Year Events?
A lot of things are uncertain, like the weather, the mood and even the economy, but one thing that will be certain is a fun-filled Chinese New Year Dubai. Starting from the cultural experiences to the family activities, you can try it all in Dubai this time. Further, explore more about the types of Chinese New Year events and choose the most suitable ones for you:
Cultural Performances
The Chinese New Year events include a variety of cultural performances, such as Lion dances, dragon dances, folk dances, martial art display and concerts. You will certainly get to witness the Chinese culture in the Lunar New Year Dubai.
Dining Experiences
- Hakkasan Dubai (Atlantis The Palm): Premium fine-dining restaurant | Special nine-course Chinese New Year Dubai menu | From 16 February to 3 March 2026 | Upscale celebration (Get directions)
- Anwā (Bab Al Shams Resort): Outdoor rooftop feast | Lantern décor | Live lion dance | Cultural entertainment (Get directions)
- Demon Duck: Five-course tasting menu | From 16 to 22 February 2026| Traditional and modern Chinese flavours | Lion dance performances (Get directions)
- Nonya (Taj JLT): Buffet dinner | 17 February 2026 | Themed performances | Single-day event | Buffet system | Affordable dining (Get directions)
Family & Community Activities
- Book yourself or try Lantern-making workshop, zodiac-themed activities, cultural storytelling and Chinese calligraphy sessions at Wafi City, Al Jalila Cultural Centre, Global Village and Chinatown.
- Enjoy shopping with family or friends and enjoy discounts, gift hampers, themed packaging and red gold decor all around.
- Watch the firework shows with the Burj Khalifa tickets or visit the Beach (JBR), Al Seef, Dubai Frame, and Dubai Festival City Mall.
How to Join the Lunar New Year Dubai Celebrations?
- Check the listings for official events from monitors like the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), Expo City Dubai website, Mall event calendars and official websites of the hotels at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
- Make the reservations early to get the place even in the rush. The weekends are completely booked for many dining places during the Chinese New Year Dubai.
- Be early for the cultural and public performances. Schedule the time in a way that you escape the traffic as well as enjoy the front view of the Chinese New Year events.
- The best outfit to choose is in the colours of red and gold, as this also reflects the association with good fortune and prosperity.
- Ramadan is also around the same time this year; hence, be mindful of the public rules and respect the practices.
Wrapping Up
Come witness it in its full spirit with culture, colours, cuisine and community experiences as you join the Chinese New Year Dubai. All these events are one of a kind, and you will make some unforgettable memories at the Chinese New Year events. So, connect with Travel Saga Tourism online or dial +971 50 339 9740 to sort your Lunar New Year Dubai celebrations!
