Where to celebrate Chinese New Year 2026 in Dubai
Chinese New Year in Dubai 2026 brings together tradition, colour and modern celebration in one vibrant season. From glowing lanterns and cultural performances to specially curated dining experiences, the city comes alive with festive energy. Visitors can explore meaningful customs while enjoying Dubai’s distinctive style. It is a joyful time to gather, discover and celebrate new beginnings.
Chinese New Year celebrations in Dubai: Celebrating the Year of the Horse
Chinese New Year 2026 marks the Year of the Horse, representing strength, ambition and independence. This sign is associated with progress, courage and a forward-looking mindset. Many believe it encourages taking smart risks and embracing new opportunities. The celebration also honours family bonds, cultural heritage and hopeful beginnings.
Places to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Dubai
Global Village
Enter a dazzling festive realm as Global Village becomes Dubai’s must-visit spot for the Chinese New Year 2026. The Chinese Pavilion shines with lively performances, rich culinary flavours and distinctive retail finds. Every corner reflects heritage, colour and celebration in equal measure.
From elegant crafts to bold tastes and one-of-a-kind keepsakes, the experience feels truly immersive. Visitors can explore traditions through music, dance and storytelling. Each moment invites a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture.
Happy Chinese New Year Concert by Firdaus Orchestra
Celebrate Chinese New Year at the Al Wasl Dome in Expo City Dubai with the Firdaus Orchestra in an evening of music and culture. The concert mixes orchestral music with traditional East Asian sounds, reflecting the joy, hope and togetherness of the season. Festive tunes and warm melodies celebrate tradition while welcoming new beginnings.
- Date: 8th Feburary 2026
- Timings: 07:00 pm to 09:30 pm
- Location: Al Wasl Plaza
Dubai Festival City
No festival feels complete without fireworks lighting up the sky. They lift the spirit and make every celebration more memorable. The Chinese New Year deserves to begin with a truly stunning display.
Dubai Festival City Mall will host a grand waterfront show for the occasion. The sky will shimmer with colour, symbolising joy and prosperity for the year ahead. Arrive early to secure a good spot among the excited crowds.
- Date: 30th January 2026
- Timings: 09:00 pm onwards
- Location: Crescent Road, Dubai Festival City
Fireworks and Shows at Dubai Parks and Resorts
In Dubai Parks and Resorts this Chinese New Year 2026, celebrations extend across Riverland, Motiongate and Legoland with family-friendly fun and cultural touches.
Riverland will host a lively festive market filled with traditional Chinese decor, artisan stalls and performances that bring the spirit of the season alive.
Motiongate Dubai will feature themed entertainment such as dragon and lion dances, character experiences and interactive shows during the celebration period.
Legoland will add creative workshops and themed activities, letting guests build mosaics and take part in festive traditions. Together these parks offer a festive mix of culture, colour and fun for all ages.
Dragon Mart
Those looking to honour Chinese New Year traditions will find Dragon Mart to be the perfect venue. As the largest Chinese market in Dubai, it celebrates the Chinese New Year every year, paying tribute to the different zodiac signs. This year, various events and shows are expected to celebrate the year of the Horse.
Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa
For Chinese New Year 2026, Burj Khalifa is expected to light up Downtown Dubai with a special themed LED and laser show. The tower usually features festive visuals, zodiac-inspired graphics and celebratory messages. Crowds gather to witness the display as part of the citywide celebrations. It remains one of Dubai’s most iconic ways to welcome the Lunar New Year.
Restaurant deals for Chinese New Year in Dubai
Dubai eagerly prepares to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Snake with great enthusiasm. If you want to greet the Chinese New Year with splendour, we have the perfect locations for you to join in the culinary festivities!
Here are some dining places to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Dubai 2065 with your family and loved ones.
Palazzo Versace
Honouring the Year of the Horse, Palazzo Versace Dubai unveils a refined yet lively Chinese New Year celebration. Each experience feels distinct, yet equally rich in festive charm. From 15 to 20 February 2026, guests can enjoy traditional performances and themed moments. The celebrations unfold across the hotel’s award winning dining venues.
Chinese New Year-themed High Tea at Mosaico
Mark this special occasion within the elegant surroundings of Mosaico. Guests can enjoy a Chinese-themed high tea while admiring sweeping skyline views. Traditional performances, artistic details and festive décor complete the experience. The lobby lounge becomes a refined stage for cultural celebration.
- Cost: AED 420
- Date: 15th to 20th Feburary 2026
- Timings: 10:00 am to 07:00 pm
- Location: Jaddaf Waterfront, Al Jaddaf
- Contact: +971-4-556-8888
Chinese New Year Feast at Giardino
Guests seeking a stylish celebration can head to the fashion-inspired Giardino. The venue offers a rich selection of flavours within a vibrant, elegant setting. An exclusive Chinese New Year-themed dinner buffet highlights authentic delicacies. It promises a refined and indulgent dining experience.
- Cost: AED 315
- Date: 15th to 20th Feburary 2026
- Timings: 06:30 pm to 11:00 pm
- Location: Jaddaf Waterfront, Al Jaddaf
- Contact: +971-4-556-8888
China Tang Dubai
Guests can explore an à la carte menu filled with Chinese New Year favourites and timeless classics. Signature highlights include Golden Salted Egg Lobster Fried Rice and Beijing Duck.
Dine on the terrace with views of Marasi Bay and the Burj Khalifa fireworks or inside the elegant Art Deco setting. Live music, DJ sets and an upstairs after party add to the mood. The night unfolds with effortless luxury.
- Timings: Daily, 12:00 pm – 03:00 pm (Lunch) | 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Dinner)
- Location: The Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection, Marasi Dr, Business Bay
- Contact: +971-4-295-7464
Sui Mui Dubai
Step into a Pan Asian dining space inspired by the spirit of Chinese New Year festivals. Rich aromas, bold flavours and cultural details blend into a truly immersive experience. Soft lantern lighting adds warmth across the restaurant.
The décor balances classic Asian influences with modern design. Every corner feels refined yet inviting. It sets the perfect scene for a memorable celebration.
- Average cost for two: AED 260
- Timings: Sunday to Friday, 06:00 pm – 10:45 pm | Saturday, 07:00 pm – 10:45 pm
- Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
- Contact: +971-4-511-7373
Even if you can’t make it to any of these restaurants, there are many other Chinese restaurants in Dubai where you can enjoy a delicious authentic meal for celebration.
FAQs about Chinese New Year in Dubai
What are some key Chinese New Year traditions?
Chinese New Year celebrations in the UAE are multifaceted. The often include:
- Family Reunions: Families gather to share meals and celebrate, reinforcing bonds and traditions.
- Festive Decorations: Homes and public spaces adorned with red lanterns, banners and decorations that symbolise good fortune and prosperity.
- Culinary Delights: Traditional foods are prepared, each with a symbolic meaning, such as fish for abundance and dumplings for wealth.
The festivities are not limited to one day; they span several weeks and culminate in various events that reflect the cultural richness of the occasion.
When is Chinese New Year 2026 in Dubai?
The Chinese New Year date is 29th January 2026.
Where can I make reservations?
People interested in visiting the restaurants mentioned above during Chinese New Year celebrations should contact them to reserve tables. Some eateries also offer online booking options on their official websites.
What are the best hot pot restaurants in Dubai?
Beef King Chinese Restaurant, Nine Squares and Fiery Hot Pot are the popular choices for Chinese hot pot eateries in Dubai.
That concludes our coverage of the Chinese New Year 2026 celebrations in Dubai. Apart from the Lunar New Year, there are plenty of other monthly events in Dubai to look forward to!
If you’re looking for more celebrations and events, consider the upcoming annual events in Dubai.
