The United Arab Emirates is a multi-cultural hub where many nationalities reside. Around 2% of residents are Chinese who will be celebrating Chinese New Year in the capital.
Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi is celebrated just like many other cultural festivities such as Diwali as well as Halloween or Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cultural dances, lights, colours, and food are part of the Chinese New Year celebration.
Restaurants and venues celebrate by adorning in traditional Chinese decor and hosting brunches, lunches and dinners throughout the Capital.
2024 marks the Year of the Dragon, which falls on February 10th. The history of Chinese New Year is quite fascinating, we will cover that later!
Events currently listed below are for 2023 and will be updated as information is released.
Chinese food is one of the most ancient and diverse cuisines in the world. We’ve compiled a list of everything there is to know about Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi including some fantastic places to eat!
Chinese New Year Abu Dhabi
1. Cantonese Cuisine At Dai Pai Dong
Dai Pai Dong celebrates Lunar New Year with 16 days of special brunches, lavish delicacies, and eight-course family-style dinners, all inspired by the fascinating history of southeastern China.
Among the Cantonese specialities are homemade noodles, dim sum, peking duck, and barbecued meats of every variety in a welcoming Chinese setting.
In order to kickstart the feast, friends and family gather around and toss a large bowl of Yu Sheng, a traditional salad containing fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish.
This well-known establishment emphasizes “Tradition”, a considerable part of China’s culture, central to the celebration.
For more information on dining at Dai Pai Dong
Dates: January 21 to February 5
Chinese New Year’s Eve Reunion Dinner: January 21
Cost: Eight courses and welcome drink for AED 298 per person
Timings: 7 PM to 11 PM
Year Of The Rabbit Prosperity Feast: January 22
Cost: AED 388 for a 3-hour all-inclusive soft drinks package.
AED 488 for a 3-hour all-inclusive house drinks package.
Timings: 6 PM to Midnight
Chinese New Year Family Style Set Menu: January 23 to February 4 (except January 28)
Cost: Eight courses and welcome drink for AED 298 per person
Timings: 12 PM to closing
Lantern Festival Brunch: February 5
Cost: AED 388 for a 3-hour all-inclusive soft drinks package.
AED 488 for a 3-hour all-inclusive house drinks package.
Timings: 12 PM to 6 PM
Location: Rosewood Abu Dhabi – Level B3 – Galleria Shopping Mall – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
2. Dinner At Li Jiang, Abu Dhabi
Li Jiang at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi is known for serving classic and contemporary Chinese food.
Sitting in the restaurant feels like a different world with its colourful spice walls and vibrant hues. Guests can dine on the terrace overlooking the majestic Grand Mosque.
It offers a wide variety of food options, including sushi, seafood, homemade noodles, as well as handcrafted Asian speciality beverages.
For more information on dining and reservations at Li Jiang, call +971 2 818 8203.
Opening Hours: 5 PM to 11 PM
Location: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
3. Jing Asia, Yas Island
Bringing in the “Year of the Rabbit” in style requires something authentic and entertaining. So make your way to Jing Asia, as a sumptuous Cantonese buffet awaits guests.
Nestled in Crowne Plaza on Yas Island, the Chinese new year celebrations include the traditional Lion dance and unlimited food and drink.
Diners will be sure to have a ball ringing in the Chinese new year with fun and frolic.
For families, kids from ages 6 to 12 brunch for AED 69, while those below the age of six dine for free.
For more information and to make a reservation, please call +971 2 656 3000.
Chinese New Year Celebrations: January 20 to 22
Timings: 6:30 PM to 11 PM
Cost: AED 149 for the soft drinks package.
AED 199 for the Brews & grapes package.
AED 249 for the house drinks package.
Location: Crowne Plaza, Yas Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
4. Urban Kitchen, Dusit Thani
Make your way to Urban Kitchen at Dusit Thani to kick off the Chinese New Year celebrations in Abu Dhabi.
Featuring an all-you-can-eat buffet and a delicious spread of authentic Asian cuisine, this is something that you and your family should not miss out on.
Call +971 2 698 8137
Dates: January 20
Timings: 7 PM to 10:30 PM
Costs: Starting at AED 180 per person, including soft beverages.
Location: Dusit Thani – Al Muroor Road – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
5. Dine At Shang Palace, Abu Dhabi
Dining at Shang Palace‘s Szechuan Dynasty Brunch over the Chinese New Year weekend is an enjoyable way to celebrate.
Guests can enjoy bold, authentic flavours from the Chinese province in the latest addition to the weekend brunch scene.
Call +971 2 509 8555
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 3 PM (Lunch)
6 PM to 10:30 PM (Dinner)
Dates: Szechuan Dynasty Brunch on January 22 (Sunday)
Cost: AED 198 per person for signature Chinese tea and soft drinks
AED 298 includes Chinese hops and house spirits
Discount of 50% for kids between the ages of 6 and 12
Location: Level 1 (Ground floor), Shangri La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
6. 360-Degree Dining At Stratos
Tucked away in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Stratos at Le Royal Meridien is celebrating with an exclusive authentic Chinese evening brunch.
With 360-degree views of the city, diners can enjoy an elegant and sophisticated experience.
For more information on reservations.
Dates: January 22
Chinese Evening Brunch Timings: 6 PM to 8 PM
Cost: AED 395 all-inclusive house drinks package
Location: Le Royal Meridien Hotel – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
7. Theatrical Dining Experience At Teatro
Theatrical dining is the hallmark of Teatro. Keeping up with the finest Cantonese dining experience, guests can choose from a variety of succulent dishes.
You’ll find everything, from dumpling baskets to noodle bowls, Peking duck to roasted chicken and plenty more at this award-winning restaurant.
Dates: January 21 to 27
Timings: 6 PM to 1 AM (Last order at 11 PM)
Cost: A La Carte
Location: Park Rotana Al Salam Street Eastern Ring Road – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
8. Fine Dining At Hakkasan
Visitors to Hakkasan will be amazed by the stunning interior, which blends modern design with traditional Chinese elements.
Authentic Cantonese cuisine and classic European techniques combine to create fusion dishes.
Aside from brunch, there is an A La Carte menu. There are a variety of seating options, including high or low tabletop as well as cabanas overlooking the stunning city skyline.
For information on reservations
Dates: Friday night brunch and Saturday lunch specials
Friday Timings: 6 PM to 1 AM (last order for brunch at 10:45 PM)
Saturday Timings: 12 PM to 3:30 PM
Cost: Friday night brunch @ AED 438 for unlimited cocktails and house specials
Saturday lunch specials @ AED 98 for three Dim Sum baskets and AED 138 for five Dim Sum baskets
Location: Emirates Palace – W Corniche Rd – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
9. China Restaurant
Located at Novel Hotel, China restaurant is hands down a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Capital.
Not many people know about this well-kept secret, even though it has been in the city for several decades. The Cantonese food at China Restaurant is authentic and incredibly delicious.
Although it may not seem as luxurious it is most certainly an authentic experience. The restaurant has a tonne of traditional dishes on the menu to choose from!
There is a family-friendly atmosphere and seating arrangements can accommodate groups of up to 10 people.
Timings: 6 PM to 11:30 PM (Monday to Sunday)
12 PM to 3:30 PM and 6 PM to 11:30 PM (Saturday)
Cost: A la carte
Location: Novel Hotel City Centre – Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street (Hamdan Street) – Abu Dhabi
10. City Palace Chinese Restaurant
Looking for a way to celebrate the year of the rabbit without leaving the comfort of your own home?
Stop by or place an order at City Palace Chinese Restaurant for a delicious array of authentic Cantonese cuisine.
Customers can enjoy a variety of Guangdong, Sichuan, Northeast & Beijing foods and a few delicacies such as Lanzhou Lamian and Peking Duck. Therefore, making the entire experience one-of-a-kind and culturally rich.
This is a fantastic idea, especially if you have friends and family over at the Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM (Daily)
Location: 918 Al Falah St – Al Danah – E18-03 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
11. Dragon Bao Bao, Abu Dhabi
Another prime spot located in the heart of the city is Dragon Bao Bao Restaurant. Not only is the venue pocket friendly, but it is also welcoming, given the number of families that storm into this restaurant.
Delivery options are available, but we suggest visiting the venue and soaking in the vibes while the food comes fresh to your dining table.
Their specialities include Lanzhou noodles, Wonton soup, Cantonese buns, Yanzhou fried rice, Chow Mein, dumplings and tons more.
This wonderful, homely dining venue is perfect for those looking for an exquisite dining experience during the lunar year celebrations.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 11 PM (Daily)
Location: Captain Cafe – Electra street Behind ADCB Bank, near – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Exclusive Chinese-Only Supermarkets in Abu Dhabi
Spend a quiet evening at home with family by taking the kids grocery shopping, and they could assist in finding all the right ingredients for a delicious Chinese meal to home cook.
Listed below are the popular spots frequented by the residents of Abu Dhabi to find spices and other popular sauces used specifically in Chinese cooking.
12. Shop At Wemart WenChao Supermarket
For great products and the best deals, visit Wemart WenChao, an authentic Chinese grocery store with a prime location in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
This supermarket looks like any other grocery shop around the city, however the products sold are unique and distinct, evident from their packaging.
The fonts are all Chinese, from the traditional cup noodles, soft drinks, snacks, and fresh produce.
Timings: 8 AM to 1 AM (Monday to Sunday)
Location: Abdulla Darwish Building, At Salam and Hamdan Street Junction – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
13. Chinese City Grocery Store
Chinese City is a small grocery store specializing in Chinese ingredients & crockery, including spices, sauces, and woks. It is a one-stop shop for everything Chinese.
Delicacies such as salted duck egg, cup noodles, rice noodles, tofu and plenty more are available.
All of the necessary items for a successful Chinese New Year celebration can be found in this store at prices as low as AED 3.
Timings: 9 AM to 11 PM
Location: F9XH+865 – Al Zahiyah – E15 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Chinese New Year Customs And Traditions
The Chinese New Year is a festival celebrating the beginning of a new year based on the lunisolar and solar calendar.
It is commonly known as the Spring Festival and is one of the most significant holidays in Chinese culture.
Numerous myths and customs are associated with the festival to honour and observe both deities and ancestors.
Chinese families often gather for their annual reunion dinner on the evening preceding New Year’s Day, according to customs and traditions.
As part of the tradition, every family cleans their house thoroughly to sweep away any bad luck and make way for good fortune to come.
Another custom involves decorating windows and doors with red paper-cut outs. The paper-cut outs are an offering for good fortune, wealth, and longevity.
It is customary to light firecrackers and give red paper envelopes with money inside.
Public Holiday In Some Countries
Some countries and territories with a significant Chinese population observe Chinese New Year as a public holiday.
Due to the Chinese New Year falling on different days each year, some governments opt to shift their working days to accommodate the long holiday.
If New Year falls on a weekend, some countries extend a statutory holiday to the following workday.
For those residing in the United Arab Emirates, the Chinese New Year is a weekend celebration with plenty of festivities across major venues.
Other popular terms for the Chinese New Year is the Lunar New Year, New Year Festival, or Spring Festival.
Chinese New Year In Abu Dhabi Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Chinese New Year celebrated?
According to the Lunar calendar, Chinese New Year will be celebrated on January 22
What is the earliest you can celebrate Chinese New Year?
In some Chinese families, Chinese New Year celebrations and preparations begin as early as day 8 of the 12th lunar month.
In Abu Dhabi, is the Chinese New Year a holiday?
The Chinese New Year is not a public holiday in Abu Dhabi or other major Middle Eastern countries.
What are the red envelopes given to friends and family on Chinese New Year?
During Lunar New Year, friends and family exchange bright red envelopes (known as Hongbo). They are filled with money and symbolize good luck and wishes for the New Year.
What is the official greeting for the Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year greetings in Cantonese are “gong hei fat choy,” which means “wishing you great happiness and prosperity.” In Mandarin, it is “gong xi fa cai.”
To Sum Up Chinese New Year In Abu Dhabi
Although the Chinese New Year festival is not a public holiday in Abu Dhabi, it is recognized and celebrated.
The event dates and celebratory brunches mentioned above will be updated closer to the day.
There is no shortage of things to do in Abu Dhabi during the cooler months if you are considering a visit.
Take advantage of Abu Dhabi’s incredible beaches, book a peaceful staycation or check out some of its best quirky coffee shops.
Abu Dhabi has something for everyone. From the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World on Yas Island, to the largest and most beautiful Grand Mosque.
Visit Abu Dhabi with our one-day or four-day itinerary.
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