Abu Dhabi: Al Maryah Island, the business and lifestyle destination in Abu Dhabi turned into a hub of celebrations from 3 – 8 February to mark Chinese New Year. The festivities for Chinese New Year marked its third consecutive year at the island. On the eve of the occasion, over 3,500 visitors were seen at the island enjoying an awe-inspiring show of fireworks.

Ali Eid AlMheiri is the Executive Director of Mubadala Real Estate & Infrastructure, said: “It was heart-warming to see so many visitors descend to the island and truly enjoy the activities. Throughout the year, we host a number of key cultural events such as UAE National Day, Saudi National Day, New Year’s Eve, and Eid Al Adha. For Al Maryah Island which is a business and lifestyle destination, we ensure that our events and other offerings are nothing but the best. Celebrations such as the one for Chinese New Year reflect the cultural diversity of our community and further improve our position as a global city.” 

The week-long festivity held at The Galleria and the Promenade of Al Maryah Island provided a glimpse of the rich and fascinating traditions of People’s Republic of China. Activities included a show of various styles of Chinese folk dances such as the lion dance, dancing dragon dance, a performance by Kung Fu fighters, an acrobatic act by a popular Chinese troupe ‘Cirque Shanghai’ and a series of Chinese arts and crafts workshops for children and adults. 

Two additional keynote features of the festivity that are ongoing at the island are: a special culinary experience for brunch and dinner hosted by Dai Pai Dong – a popular Chinese restaurant at The Galleria until 14 February and an artwork exhibition of an acclaimed Chinese artist Jun Ma, also held at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island until 20 February.