Chinese New Year in Dubai continues to grow, reflecting the city’s multicultural energy and love of large-scale celebrations. In 2026, the festival brings together traditional Chinese customs, luxury dining, public performances, and family-friendly experiences across some of Dubai’s most recognisable destinations.
In this guide, discover:
- Understanding the Chinese New Year 2026 dates and significance
- Top venues and events for the Chinese New Year in Dubai
- Family-friendly and cultural experiences
- Hiring custom Chinese New Year entertainment
- Practical tips for celebrating the Chinese New Year 2026 in Dubai
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Understanding the Chinese New Year 2026 dates and significance
Chinese New Year in 2026 falls on 17 February, welcoming the Year of the Horse. The occasion marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and traditionally runs for around 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival. Across Dubai, Chinese New Year celebrations usually include lion and dragon dances, red and gold décor, symbolic food, fireworks, and live cultural performances that highlight prosperity, energy, and forward momentum.
Top venues and events for the Chinese New Year in Dubai
Dubai’s hospitality and retail scene plays a major role in the Chinese New Year celebrations in Dubai. While final 2026 announcements will be released closer to February, several venues consistently curate themed experiences based on past years.
China Tang at Taj Downtown Dubai
Located near the Burj Khalifa, China Tang is known for refined Cantonese cuisine and celebratory menus during festive periods. During Chinese New Year in Dubai, the restaurant typically introduces set menus inspired by traditional symbolism, paired with music and city views. Its Downtown location places it within walking distance of areas that regularly host seasonal fireworks and light displays.
Location
It’s located in The Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection, Marasi Dr, Business Bay
Contact
Phone: +97142957464
Maiden Shanghai
Maiden Shanghai often leans into bold flavours and lively brunch-style celebrations. Previous Chinese New Year in Dubai menus have included special noodle dishes, premium sharing plates, and entertainment-led dining, making it popular with groups looking for a high-energy evening experience.
Location
It’s located in No. 1 Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Contact
Phone: +97144559989
Lah Lah at Zabeel House
Lah Lah offers a broader Pan-Asian approach, combining Chinese favourites with Southeast Asian dishes. For Chinese New Year in Dubai, its buffet-style layouts, live cooking stations, and performance-led evenings appeal to diners who want variety without having to move venues.
Location
It’s located in Fourth Floor, Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens Onyx Towers, Tower 3, Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact
Phone: +97145191184
TANG
TANG is recognised for luxury dining with skyline views. While better known for major calendar events, the venue has previously extended themed décor and curated menus into the Chinese New Year period, particularly for guests seeking a glamorous setting aligned with the festive mood.
Location
It’s located in Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
Contact
Phone: +971556633071
Shopping malls and public spaces
Large-scale public celebrations remain a highlight of the Chinese New Year in Dubai. Areas such as dragon dance performances at Dubai Mall are common, especially around atriums and promenade zones.
These events often sit alongside seasonal installations, making them accessible to residents and visitors without requiring reservations. With Dubai Mall’s retail and entertainment zones drawing large crowds year-round, the venue naturally becomes a focal point during lunar celebrations.
Family-friendly and cultural experiences
Beyond restaurants, the Chinese New Year in Dubai offers accessible cultural moments suited to families and casual outings.
Global Village
Global Village frequently adapts its international pavilions to align with global festivals. During Chinese New Year in Dubai, visitors can expect cultural performances, themed stalls, fireworks on select nights, and extended opening hours based on seasonal demand.
Location
It’s located in Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311), Exit 37, Al Warqa 2
Contact
Phone: +97143624114
Expo City Dubai
At Expo City Dubai, large-scale projection mapping and open-air plazas make it well-suited for themed cultural programming. Al Wasl Plaza has previously hosted immersive light shows and live entertainment, which align well with Chinese New Year visuals and music.
Location
It’s located on Al Wasl Avenue, Madinat Al Mataar, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact
Phone: +97180039762489
Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa area
The Downtown district often acts as a natural backdrop for city-wide celebrations. During Chinese New Year in Dubai, this area may feature parades, seasonal light installations, and coordinated entertainment near the Burj Khalifa, creating a festive walking route for evening visitors.
Location
It’s located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
Contact
Phone: +97148888888
Hiring custom Chinese New Year entertainment
Private celebrations and corporate events form another layer of the Chinese New Year festivities in Dubai. Hotels, offices, and retail brands often bring in specialist performers to create immersive experiences.
| Entertainment type | Ideal for | Description |
| Dragon dancers | Large public events, malls | High-energy performances symbolising power and good fortune |
| LED Chinese stilt walkers | Retail and brand activations | Visual performers designed for grand entrances |
| Chinese fan or umbrella dancers | Corporate events | Elegant routines rooted in traditional movement |
| Fortune tellers and zodiac readings | Interactive zones | Personalised Year of the Horse insights |
| Martial arts or fire-breathing shows | Outdoor venues | Dramatic spectacles suited to large crowds |
Practical tips for celebrating the Chinese New Year 2026 in Dubai
Planning ahead makes the Chinese New Year in Dubai smoother, especially during peak dining dates.
- Book early: Popular venues release Chinese New Year menus from early to mid-February.
- Dress code: Red remains a common symbol of luck, while rooftop venues often follow smart or glam dress expectations.
- Pricing: Expect premium dining experiences to range from AED 800 and up, depending on the menu and views.
- Getting around: Metro access to Downtown helps avoid traffic during peak evenings.
- Alternative views: Waterfront areas such as Bluewaters and Palm Jumeirah sometimes offer free skyline views during seasonal light shows.
Key takeaways
Chinese New Year in Dubai blends cultural tradition with modern city experiences. Restaurants, malls, and public districts offer a mix of ticketed and free celebrations, with Year of the Horse themes focusing on movement, ambition, and success. Early planning remains essential for popular dining venues, while public performances provide accessible options for families and visitors.
FAQs
Chinese New Year in Dubai begins on 17 February 2026 and continues through early March.
Yes. Malls and public spaces, including Dubai Mall, regularly host dragon dances and cultural displays.
China Tang, Maiden Shanghai, Lah Lah, and TANG are known for curated Chinese New Year dining experiences.
Yes. Dragon dancers, themed performers, and interactive acts are commonly booked for private and corporate events.
Based on seasonal patterns, Global Village is expected to operate with cultural programming during the Chinese New Year period.
