Photos: Abu Dhabi Media Office/X
Celebrating 40 years of collaboration between the UAE and China, the 'Building Bridges for the Future: UAE-China' event will be held from November 1 to 3, on Abu Dhabi Corniche. Visitors to the Corniche will immerse themselves in traditional crafts from both countries, participating in activities such as calligraphy, fan painting, and basket weaving. A variety of live performances will illuminate the area, featuring musical and martial arts traditions passed down through generations. Attendees can enjoy traditional Emirati Oud music and Tai Chi, and Kung Fu, each performance reflecting the unique cultural essence of its origin. The celebration extends to the culinary world, where guests can savor authentic dishes that embody the heart of both cuisines, from Emirati favorites like Harees Alfareej and Al Fanar to cherished Chinese classics such as Fat Aunts and Asian Wok dishes. Artisan stalls along the Corniche will showcase handcrafted items from Emirati and Chinese artists. A roaming Dragon Dance and Al-Ayyala performers will weave through the crowds, filling Abu Dhabi’s Corniche with vibrant colors, sounds, and the festive spirit, symbolizing the unity at the core of the UAE-China partnership.
Organized in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, the event’s theme, 'Reflecting on The Past, Present, and Future,' honors the enduring ties, milestones, and collaborative spirit that have shaped the UAE-China relationship since 1984. The UAE currently operates two diplomatic offices in China, in Beijing and Shanghai, and this strong bond has continued to flourish, with President Sheikh Mohamed visiting China in June 2024. To further enhance cross-cultural communication and understanding, the Hundred Schools Project, launched in 2019, has significantly improved Chinese language proficiency among Emirati students. Additionally, since its inception in 1994, the Sheikh Zayed Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies in Beijing has educated over 1,000 students, strengthening a legacy of educational exchange. The China Cultural Centre in the UAE engages local communities, fostering authentic dialogue and shared growth.
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