7 Unmissable Ways to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi

As the Lunar New Year approaches, Abu Dhabi transforms into a vibrant hub of cultural celebrations, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the city’s diverse array of events and experiences ensures that everyone can join in the festivities. From luxurious dining experiences to family-friendly activities, here are seven incredible ways to celebrate Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi.

• Etihad Airways: A Sky-High Celebration
• Hakkasan Abu Dhabi: Fine Dining Meets Tradition
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Thrills and Festivities
• Dai Pai Dong: A Family Reunion Feast
• Shangri La Qaryat Al Beri: A Cultural Extravaganza
• Four Seasons Abu Dhabi: A Culinary Journey
• Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: Elegance and Tradition

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Etihad Airways: A Sky-High Celebration

Kick off your Chinese New Year celebrations with Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline. On January 29, passengers flying in premium cabins or eligible Etihad Guest members can enjoy a special themed menu at the Etihad Lounges in Zayed International Airport. The menu features a live cooking station where chefs prepare traditional dishes, setting the tone for a prosperous journey.

Once on board, flights to and from key Asian destinations like Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore, and Shanghai will serve a curated menu symbolizing prosperity and good luck. Highlights include:

• Prosperity salad with salmon and dragon fruit
• Shrimp and chicken fried dumplings
• Black pepper beef with shimeji mushrooms
• Mandarin and dark chocolate cake with passion fruit and mango

Passengers will also receive a traditional red envelope containing chocolate gold coins, adding a touch of festive luck to their journey.

Hakkasan Abu Dhabi: Fine Dining Meets Tradition

For a luxurious dining experience, head to Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, located at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its exquisite Cantonese cuisine and memorable celebrations. During Chinese New Year, Hakkasan offers a limited-edition menu and cocktail selection, complemented by traditional lion dances.

Menu highlights include:

• Golden “Yuan Bao” with king crab, caviar, and rice berry
• Snake fruit, persimmon, and avocado salad
• Plum-braised beef short ribs with a pineapple plum glaze
• Lucky red envelope dessert featuring mango curry mousse, cashew peanut praline, and mango passionfruit sorbet

This celebration runs until February 12, making it a perfect spot for a festive dinner.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Thrills and Festivities

For a family-friendly celebration, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi on Yas Island is the place to be. The park is adorned with stunning decorations and features high-energy lion dancers, mesmerizing ribbon dancers, and acrobatic performances. Beloved characters Bella, Jack, and Gio will make special appearances in celebratory outfits, creating picture-perfect moments for guests.

Don’t miss the wishing tree, where you can hang ribbons and make heartfelt wishes for a prosperous year ahead. This event is perfect for families looking to combine cultural festivities with thrilling rides and entertainment.

Dai Pai Dong: A Family Reunion Feast

Located at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Dai Pai Dong offers a special family reunion dinner on January 29, perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year with loved ones. The restaurant also offers a prosperity set menu, a lantern festival on February 12, and themed brunches on February 1, 2, 8, and 9.

Highlights include:

• Wok Hei brunch with live entertainment
• Yum Cha brunch featuring traditional dim sum

With prices starting from Dhs298, Dai Pai Dong provides an affordable yet luxurious way to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

Shangri La Qaryat Al Beri: A Cultural Extravaganza

Shangri La Qaryat Al Beri offers a rich celebration of Chinese New Year with a host of activities. From a traditional lion dance on January 29 to a special afternoon tea available until February 28, there’s something for everyone. Shang Palace will feature handcrafted culinary treasures, signature brunches, and exclusive beverages.

Highlights include:

• Gongfu tea ceremony with resident tea master Liu Pin
• Prosperity brunch from January 29 to February 2

This celebration is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and traditions.

Four Seasons Abu Dhabi: A Culinary Journey

At the Eclipse Terrace Lounge in Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, guests can enjoy a special Chinese New Year set menu until February 2. The menu features dishes like golden crab consommé, tea-smoked duck breast, and jasmine panna cotta, all set against the stunning Abu Dhabi skyline.

Priced from Dhs400, this culinary journey is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and memorable dining experience.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: Elegance and Tradition

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental offers a range of activities to celebrate Chinese New Year. Begin with a tea ceremony at the Episodes lobby lounge, where guests receive a ‘hong bao’ for good fortune. On January 29, traditional dancers will perform a lively cultural show, available for Dhs250 per guest.

At Vendome, enjoy a culinary journey across China with cultural delicacies and flavors for Dhs318, available until February 2. For children, a creative workshop inspired by Chinese drums is available at Kids Palace on January 31, priced at Dhs80.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi offers a diverse array of celebrations to mark Chinese New Year, blending tradition with modern luxury. Whether you’re flying with Etihad Airways, dining at Hakkasan, or enjoying family fun at Ferrari World, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss these seven incredible ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year in style.

FAQs

Q: What is the best family-friendly Chinese New Year event in Abu Dhabi?
A: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers a family-friendly celebration with lion dances, acrobatic performances, and a wishing tree.

Q: Where can I enjoy a luxurious Chinese New Year dinner in Abu Dhabi?
A: Hakkasan Abu Dhabi and Four Seasons Abu Dhabi offer luxurious dining experiences with special menus and cultural performances.

Q: Are there any affordable options to celebrate Chinese New Year in Abu Dhabi?
A: Dai Pai Dong at Rosewood Abu Dhabi offers affordable brunches and family reunion dinners starting from Dhs298.

For more information, contact the venues directly or visit their official websites. Happy Chinese New Year!