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Gong Xi Glow-Up: Our City’s Chinese New Year 2026 Celebrations

Jennifer - Online EditorFebruary 3, 2026

Fireworks, feasts, lion dances and lucky flavours.

Chinese New Year in Dubai is never subtle… and honestly, we wouldn’t want it any other way. Think sky-splitting fireworks, dragon dances, symbolic feasts, lantern-lit lounges and menus designed to attract everything from prosperity to pure deliciousness. The Year of the Horse begins on 17th February, bringing themes of energy, movement, independence and good fortune, which is why many celebrations and menus reference prosperity, momentum and luck for the year ahead.

Whether you’re celebrating with family, planning a culture-filled day out, or booking a banquet-worthy dinner with friends, these Lunar New Year experiences bring all the right luck, flavour and festive flair.

Save this list, send it to your group chat, and let the good fortune (and vibes) roll in.

Chinese New Year Dining Experiences

Aelia, The Link

Seafood lovers, start your Lunar New Year on a high (25 floors high, to be exact). Aelia is serving a premium seafood breakfast featuring lobster, oysters and shrimp, alongside celebratory “Lunar” and “Year of the Horse” cocktails. With panoramic views and a polished atmosphere, it’s an elegant way to toast new beginnings — preferably with bubbles in hand.

25th Floor, The Link | Premium seafood breakfast | Lunar & Year of the Horse cocktails available

China Tang Dubai, The Lana Promenade

Few places do Chinese New Year with as much theatre and tradition as China Tang. For one week only (16–22 February), the restaurant presents a symbolic Chinese New Year menu where every dish is named and crafted to convey wishes of prosperity, harmony and abundance.

Highlights include the Longevity Yu Sheng (smoked salmon salad with chicken) tossed at the table for good fortune, Golden Lobster Har Gau, braised tiger grouper with glass noodles, whole Canadian lobster in Hong Kong-style sauce, lotus leaf chicken fried rice, and pan-fried turnip cake. Dessert arrives in the form of red bean glutinous rice balls, a classic symbol of reunion and completeness.

Add Art Deco glamour, skyline views and an unmistakably festive buzz, and you have a top-tier Lunar New Year destination.

16–22 February 2026 | The Lana Promenade, Business Bay | reservations@chinatangdubai.com | 04 295 7464 | @chinatang_dubai

Long Yin, Le Meridien Dubai

Known for its Sichuan and Cantonese specialities, Long Yin hosts live dragon performances and a Chinese New Year brunch alongside celebratory menus designed for sharing. A great pick for families and traditionalists who want classic flavours in a festive setting.

Chinese New Year Brunch from AED 300 | Le Meridien Dubai | Book here

Shang Palace, Shangri-La Dubai

A MICHELIN-recommended favourite, Shang Palace celebrates the Year of the Horse with multiple experiences including:

Chinese New Year Set Menu (16–20 Feb) from AED 398 pp
Chinese New Year Weekend Brunch (14–22 Feb) from AED 298 pp
Lantern Festival Menu (3 March) from AED 298 pp
Lion Dance on 17 February from 10:00am

A reliable go-to for classic Chinese flavours and elegant celebrations.

Reservations: +971 4 405 2703 | fbreservations.sldb@shangri-la.com

Sui Mui, The Westin Mina Seyahi

Warm, welcoming and ideal for first-time Chinese cuisine explorers, Sui Mui serves comforting Cantonese favourites like taro dumplings, dim sum and wok classics. Bonus: staff will happily teach you how to use chopsticks in five minutes.

Average cost for two: AED 260 | The Westin Mina Seyahi | +971 4 511 7373 | Book here

Family-Friendly & Cultural Celebrations

Global Village – Chinese Pavilion

Lanterns, street food, shopping, and the iconic Lion and Dragon Dance Parade make Global Village the heart of the celebrations. Expect immersive décor, performances and festive energy every evening.

Daily | 4:00pm–1:00am | Global Village

Motiongate Dubai – Kung Fu Panda World

Meet Po, take part in the Red Warrior Challenge, earn a ribbon for the Wishing Tree, and watch Dragon Dance parades across the park. Add authentic noodles at Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop and you’ve got a full family day sorted.

From AED 330 per person | Motiongate Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts

Where To Watch Fireworks

Dubai Festival City (Waterfront Fireworks)

Nothing says “new year” like fireworks over water. Expect a large-scale Lunar New Year fireworks display perfect for families, couples and groups.

30 January 2026 | From 9:00pm | Crescent Road, Dubai Festival City

Shows & Live Performances

Firdaus Orchestra: Happy Chinese New Year Concert

A symphonic Lunar New Year celebration blending orchestral arrangements with East Asian influences in a polished, atmospheric setting.

8 February 2026 | 7:00pm–9:30pm | Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai | Book here

Chinese New Year Staycations

Mandarin Oriental Dubai – A Joyful Reunion Stay

Enjoy 15% off rooms or 25% off suites, daily breakfast for two, and a special Chinese New Year in-room welcome amenity.

Valid for stays between 1 February–1 March 2026 | Reserve at least 5 days in advance | Book here

Destination Celebrations (Worth The Road Trip)

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri welcomes the Year of the Horse with a refined programme of Lunar New Year celebrations set against its tranquil waterfront backdrop. Festivities begin with a vibrant Traditional Lion Dance at the hotel entrance, featuring the symbolic eye-dotting ritual, rhythmic drumbeats, Cai Qing for good fortune, and a festive Yee Sang toss.

Throughout February, guests can enjoy a limited-edition Lunar Prosperity Afternoon Tea at the Lobby Lounge, showcasing elegant sweet and savoury creations paired with signature teas, artisanal coffees, crafted cocktails or a glass of bubbly.