It’s Chinese New Year – welcome the Year of the Snake…

No matter what the celebration, there is a space for it in Dubai. We pride ourselves on being the residents of a melting pot of cultures, and for the opportunities we have to experience traditions, customs and festivals from far and wide. Chinese New Year will be soon upon us, on January 29, and if you celebrate, here are some of the best ways.

Hutong

 

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Hutong Dubai invites diners to indulge in an elevated Chinese New Year experience. On January 28, you can savour artful creations iconic dishes such as Lo Hei, symbolizing prosperity and unity, alongside an exclusive menu of authentic delights. A DJ will entertain on the night of along with a lion dance performance and a live Chinese drummer. Pair your experience with Chinese New Year-inspired cocktails and mocktails. The venue will be decked out timeless red and gold decor, lanterns, and intricate details.

Hutong, DIFC, Jan 28, from 7pm onwards, Tel: (0) 4 220 0868, @hutongdubai

Hakkasan

hakkasan

Hakkasan is celebrating with a limited-edition menu featuring exclusive new dishes like a festive cocktail and a special dessert created just for the occasion. On the entertainment front, a unique lion dance is also planned throughout the evening on Wednesday, January 29. To keep up with traditions, guests are invited to write their wishes on a red ribbon before tying it to the restaurant’s wall latticing in hopes that they will come true. The nine-course set menu is priced at Dhs738 per person, and has been created by Hakkasan’s Executive Chefs from around the world.

Hakkasan, Atlantis The Palm, Jan 28 to Feb 12, 6pm to 11:45pm, Dhs738, special cocktail at Dhs98, Tel: (0) 4 426 0752, @hakkasandubai

Ling Ling

ling ling

Head to Ling Ling for premium celebrations – diners can select from special dishes starting from Dhs130, including crispy chow mien with sliced smoked duck breast, steamed razor clams featuring vermicelli, ginger scallion confit and bao with short rib, galbi sauce, pickle carrot, daikon and cilantro. While the exclusive dishes can be complemented with a fitting rattlesnake highball cocktail or a serpentine mocktail, guests can also treat themselves to a delightful snake-inspired dessert to celebrate the occasion. Continue the party with a table at the Ling Ling Ultra Lounge.

Ling Ling, Atlantis The Royal, Jan 28 to Feb 7, 6pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 56 997 1642, @linglingdubai

Demon Duck

chinese new year

Celebrity Chef Alvin Leung is bringing the exclusive for Chinese new Year this year, with a specially-curated tasting menu with a creative twist from January 27 to February 2. There will also be traditional Chinese dragon dance to honour the customs of the festival. Dishes include lo hei slaw RAW, dim sum, slow-roasted Demon Duck, grilled lobster, Wagyu beef, Long Life noodles, and the indulgent Demon Dessert Platter. Entertainment on January 28 and 29.

Demon Duck, Banyan Tree, Bluewaters Island, Jan 28 to Feb 2, Tel: (0) 4 556 6466, @demonduckdubai

Shanghai Me

 

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Shanghai Me’s themed celebration will take place on January 29, and is offering a a specially curated Chinese New Year Menu with creamy lobster soup with napa cabbage, Chinese-style salmon sashimi with a chili vinegar dressing, duck pepper bao, wok-fried whole lobster in prik phao sauce and tender lamb spare ribs. Complete your dining experience with longevity dan dan soup noodles. Shanghai Me’s outdoor spaces will be transformed into a massive snake decoration that evokes Chinese New Year’s spirit and grandeur. Guests will be entertained with a snake performance, a Guzheng performance, and more.

Shanghai Me, Gate Village, DIFC, Jan 29, to Feb 15, from 8pm, Tel: (0) 4 564 0505, @shanghaimedxb

LAH LAH

Head to LAH LAH’s Asian nightlife inspired terrace and indulge in an exquisite set menu. The menu includes Chinese delights such as XO scallop dumplings, wagyu foie gras rolls, chicken wonton, the iconic Beijing crispy duck and main courses like szechuan chili lobster, cantonese wagyu rib-eye, or Asian-style seabass. There will also be an array of dessert platters and fortune cookies. The menu will be available for one day only, on January 29, for both lunch and dinner and is priced at Dhs375 including two hours of beverages. Celebrate in style. 

LAH LAH, Zabeel House, Jan 29, lunch and dinner, Dhs375 including two hours of beverages, Tel: (0) 4 519 1111, @lahlahdxb

Moli

moli by shi

Moli by SHI will kick off celebrations with a special menu featuring 8 authentic Cantonese dishes, including the zesty mix seafood salad, the aromatic furong chicken, and the perfectly seasoned jue jue red snapper. The celebrations reach their peak on January 28 and 29 with an exclusive five-course set menu priced at Dhs299. the space will also be hosting live performances throughout the week, from the soothing melodies of a Guzheng player to the high-energy Lion Dance and graceful Hand Fan performance. Guests can also take part in a meaningful tradition by penning wishes on red envelopes and adorning bonsai trees at the entrance – a beautiful way to usher in luck and prosperity.

 

Moli, Dubai Hills Business Park, until Feb 2, Dhs299, Tel: (0) 4 276 3338, @molidubai

Salvaje

 

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This Chinese New Year, celebrate in style at Salvaje. Until February 12, indulge in an exclusive 5-course set menu that masterfully blends vibrant Latin American flavors with the finesse of Japanese techniques. Sample dishes like the Salvaje salad, avocado ceviche, the Salvaje roll, aubergine maki, roasted salmon and end your meal on a sweet note. Priced at Dhs300.

Salvaje, Opera District, Address Residences, Downtown Dubai, until Feb 12, Dhs300, Tel: (0) 4 570 3653, @salvaje.dubai

Arrogante

 

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Celebrate with Arrogante’s Festiva della Fortuna – a special three-course set menu celebrating Chinese New Year with an Italian twist, designed to bring prosperity and good fortune into the year ahead. Sample dishes like baci di pizza, pizza margherita, Italian salad, dorada al limon, tagliatelle alla bolognese, and a specially crafted seasonal dessert to to end your meal on a sweet note. All this, with stunning, sweeping views of the Burj Khalifa. Priced at Dhs250.

Arrogante, Opera District, Address Residences, Downtown Dubai, until Feb 12, Dhs250, Tel: (0) 4 570 3653, @arrogantedubai

Barfly by Buddha Bar

Celebrate Chinese New Year in style at Barfly by Buddha-Bar with a special Soirée Brunch on Thursday, February 1, at 7pm. Set against the vibrant ambiance of The Palm Jumeirah, this exclusive event blends traditional Chinese flavors with Barfly’s signature Asian fusion cuisine. Savor a curated menu featuring festive highlights starting from Dhs365 for food and soft beverages. The evening’s magic is elevated with mesmerizing Chinese décor and an enchanting traditional dragon performance, ensuring an unforgettable celebration to ring in the Year of the Snake.

Barfly by Buddha-Bar, The Palm Jumeirah, Feb 1, 7pm, prices from Dhs365, @barflydubai

Hawkerboi

 

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Celebrate Chinese New Year in style at Hawkerboi, JLT’s neon-lit haven for Southeast Asian-inspired flavors. From January 23 to 29, indulge in a special festive menu priced at Dhs240 per person, starting at 6pm. Taste all the incredible seasonal delights such as kung pao soup, mushroom spring rolls, spicy beef dumplings and mango pudding with coconut cream and fresh mango. Guests will also receive fortune cookies with surprise gifts, including exclusive EATX experiences.

Hawkerboi, The Park, JLT, Jan 23 to 29, 6pm onwards, Dhs240 per person, Tel: (0) 50 427 5217, @hawker.boi

MiMi Mei Fair

 

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This Chinese New Year, MiMi Mei Fair Dubai invites you to celebrate tradition and transformation in the Year of the Wood Snake. From January 14 to February 12, guests can indulge in a specially curated tasting menu priced at Dhs528 per person (with an optional wine pairing for Dhs328), offering a journey through the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine. In addition to the exquisite menu, guests can make wishes for the year ahead at the traditional wishing tree, adorned with golden plum blossoms.

MiMi Mei Fair Dubai, Address Residences – Opera District, Jan 14 to Feb 12, Dhs 528 per person, Tel: (0) 4 500 8888, @mimimeifair

XU

XU, invites you to welcome the Year of the Snake with a celebration filled with delectable dishes, cocktails, live entertainment, and festive decorations. On January 29, XU will be offering exquisite celebrations for Chinese New Year. A Wish Tree at the entrance of the restaurant is a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and positive energy for the coming year. You can share your hopes and dreams by writing them on special wishing cards and adorning the tree. The a la carte menu will be accompanied by seasonal specials, live entertainment and performances.

Xu, Mall of the Emirates, Jan 29, from 7pm, Tel: (0) 4 394 6252, @xurestaurantdubai

Zheng He

 

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Stunning waterside location Zheng He in Jumeirah Mina A’Salam is decking up to celebrate the Chinese New Year, complete with celebrations, decorations and delicious food. There will be live lion dance performances on January 28 and 29, not just Zheng He, but throughout the hotel. Complete your experience with a decadent flourish by indulging in limited-edition cakes from the acclaimed Margaux pastry boutique, featuring exotic fruits and a delicate almond-vanilla crisp. Available until February 9.

Zheng He, Jumeirah A’Salam, until Feb 9, daily, Tel: (800) 323232, jumeirah.com

Shang Palace

 

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Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Shangri-La Dubai with a vibrant culinary journey at Shang Palace. From January 28 to February 12, indulge in specially curated Cantonese set menus, offering a blend of traditional flavors with modern flair. The Chinese New Year Set Menu (Dhs388 per person) from January 28 to February 3 features a delectable selection Guests can also enjoy the yusheng Chinese rainbow raw fish salad (Dhs118 for 2-4 guests, Dhs236 for 6-10 guests) on January 29, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Ring in the celebrations with a traditional Lion Dance from January 28 to February 3, and mark the end of festivities with a Lantern Festival Menu on February 12 (Dhs288 per person).

Shang Palace, Shangri-La Dubai, Jan 28 to Feb 12, Tel: (0) 4 355 1747, @shangriladubai

Tang Town

Tang Town, located with stunning views of the Dubai Mall Fountain, invites guests to celebrate Chinese New Year in style with a luxurious dining experience, available from January 28 to February 12. Honoring the rich culinary heritage of China, Tang Town offers curated menus ranging from Dhs1,988 to Dhs20,888, perfect for both intimate gatherings and larger family celebrations. The festive menus feature iconic dishes from banquet Chinese dining.

Tang Town, Dubai Mall Fountain Views, Jan 28 to Feb 12, Dhs1,988 to Dhs20,888, Tel: (0) 4 555 5555, @tangtown_dubai

The Citronelle Club


The Citronelle Club invites you to celebrate the rich heritage of Mongolian and Chinese-inspired cuisine. Honouring Chinese New Year traditions, this exclusive a la carte menu will be available for both lunch and dinner from January 28 to 31. Sample dishes like tofu and herb salad, Mongolian spiced goose and the sizzling tofu hotpot. Also try some Chinese New Year-themed cocktails, including TomYum in Paris and One Night in Chiang Mai.

The Citronelle Club, SO/ Uptown Dubai, JLT, Jan 28 to 31, lunch 12pm to 3pm, dinner 6pm to 11.30pm, Tel: (0) 4 820 8888, @thecitronelleclub

Mott 32

 

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Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Mott 32, perched high on the 73rd floor of Address Beach Resort, offering panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline. From January 27 to February 2, guests can savoUr a special menu crafted by Executive Chef Frankie Yang Tao. Highlights include lobster and abalone lo hei salad, delicate crab roe Shanghainese soup dumplings, fried Qingyuan chicken with black truffle and stir-fried spicy lobster with rainbow quinoa. Don’t miss the exclusive Penfolds wine-paired dinner on January 29 for Dhs888, or the festive Chinese New Year-themed Brunch 32 on February 1 from 12.30 pm to 4pm, complete with themed entertainment and décor.

Mott 32, Address Beach Resort, Jan 27 to Feb 2, Tel: (0) 4 278 4832, @mott32dubai

Armani/Caffè

Celebrate the Year of the Snake in style at Armani/Caffè with a luxurious Chinese New Year-inspired indulgence. From January 29 to February 2, savor the exquisite ORO Cheesecake (Dhs90) and the Gold Cappuccino with Fortune Cookie (Dhs95), blending Italian craftsmanship with Chinese symbolism. These delightful treats embody the spirit of renewal and prosperity, making them the perfect way to mark the occasion in an elegant setting.

Armani/Caffè, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Jan 29 to Feb 2, @armanicaffe.dubai

BA – Boldly Asian


BA – Boldly Asian invites you to indulge in an exclusive Lunar New Year menu, alongside a fabulous live performance from the resident DJ. Sample dishes like year of the snake sushi platter, longevity noodle soup, Taiwanese pepper shrimp and end it on a sweet note with the BA Asian dessert platter, offering a selection of passion fruit egg tart, chocolate fudge cookie, matcha ice cream tacos, and exotic fruits.

BA – Boldly Asian, Fairmont The Palm, Jan 29 to 30, 6pm till 11pm, Jan 31 to Feb 1, 6pm until 8pm, Tel: (0) 4 457 3457, @ba.boldlyasian

Hong Loong

Sofitel Dubai The Palm invites you to usher in the Year of the Snake with a sumptuous dining experience at its renowned Pan-Asian restaurant, Hong Loong. On January 29 and 30, indulge in an exclusive dinner menu to celebrate the Lunar New Year, blending authentic Chinese flavours with Polynesian and Pan-Asian influences. The event is part of Sofitel Dubai The Palm’s third annual EPICURE Culinary Month (until February 28, 2025), a month-long celebration of the very best of food and the culinary arts.

Hong Loong, Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Jan 29 to 30, from 7pm, Dhs195, Tel: (0) 4 455 6677, @sofiteldubaithepalm

Dukes The Palm, A Royal Hideaway Hotel

 

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The Great British Restaurant is hosting Chinese New Year celebrations with a delicious buffet feast including dishes such as chicken char siu salad, peking duck, Cantonese steamed fish and more, with a spectacular lion dance and a live DJ. To add to the vibe this evening brings, guests can also enjoy live cooking stations around the restaurant. Priced at Dhs190 per person. Dukes Bar is also marking the occasion with Chinese New Year-themed cocktails. From January 28 to February 28.

Great British Restaurant, Dukes The Palm, A Royal Hideaway Hotel, Jan 29, 7pm to 10.30pm, Dhs190, Tel: (0) 4 455 1111, @dukesthepalm

Mosaico

Mosaico at Palazzo Versace will be hosting a special themed Chinese New Year high tea. Guests are invited to celebrate in the festive and opulent setting of the venue with panoramic views of the Dubai Creek. The celebration will be complete with an array of traditional Chinese entertainment, ranging from dragon dances to design and décor to enthrall guests. From January 28 to February 2, 10.30am to 7pm, priced at Dhs420 per stand for two.

Mosaic, Palazzo Versace, Jaddaf Waterfront, Jan 28 to Feb 2, 10.30am to 7pm, Dhs420, Tel: (0) 4 556 8888, @palazzoverdsacedubai

Giardino

Giardino

Giardino is hosting a Chinese New Year themed feast with an exquisite dinner buffet featuring authentic Chinese delicacies for guests looking to indulge in a tasteful dining experience. Tuck into delicacies like live hand pulled noodle soup with condiments, steamed live grouper fish and sticky rice dumpling with beef.

Giardino, Palazzo Versace, Jaddaf Waterfront, Jan 28 to Feb 2, 7pm to11pm, Dhs275 for buffet only, drinks charged accordingly, Tel: (0) 4 556 8888, @giardinodubai

Tenggara


Tenggara, nestled within the Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai is offering a specially curated menu that brings the essence of Chinese New Year to life. The theme is A Feast of Fortune, and the menu features an exquisite range of flavors designed to delight and bring good fortune. Sample dishes like lo hei yee sang, Singapore chilli prawns, Hong Kong steamed chicken, crab meat soup, deep-fried fish in Thai sweet chilli sauce, and Tenggara’s traditional Nian Gao – the New Year’s cake with its sweetness denoting good fortune and success for the year ahead.

Tenggara, Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, until Feb 12, daily, 12pm to 12am, Tel: (0) 4 377 1163, @tenggaradubai

Griffin Lounge

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with a Chinese New Year-inspired afternoon tea at Griffin Lounge. From January 25 to February 5, between 3pm  and 6pm, immerse yourself in a luxurious experience featuring traditional Chinese delicacies paired with premium teas. Perfect for a gathering with loved ones or a sophisticated solo treat, this exclusive high tea embodies the spirit of the season in a chic setting.

Griffin Lounge, JW Marriott Hotel Marina, Jan 25 to Feb 5, 3pm to 6pm, from Dhs190 per couple, Tel: (0) 58 279 7992, @jwmarriottmarina

JW Kitchen

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with a lavish Chinese-inspired dinner buffet at JW Kitchen, the signature dining spot at JW Marriott Hotel Marina. From January 25 to February 5, between 6.30pm and 9.30pm, savor a variety of traditional and modern Chinese dishes, from flavorful appetizers to indulgent desserts, all crafted to honor the festive occasion. Perfect for a memorable Lunar New Year celebration.

JW Kitchen, JW Marriott Hotel Marina, Jan 25 to Feb 5, 6.30pm to 9.30pm, Dhs150 per person, Tel: (0) 58 279 7992, @jwhotelmarina

The Green Planet

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a wild twist at The Green Planet™ Dubai as it spotlights its newest resident, a majestic Burmese python. From January 24 to 31, visitors can explore Dubai’s indoor rainforest, adorned with festive lanterns, and enjoy thrilling encounters with over 3,000 species. The Burmese python takes center stage, with daily appearances offering rare, interactive moments to learn about its vital ecological role. Visitors can also attend engaging keeper talks, revealing fascinating insights about snakes and their habitats. Families and children can channel their creativity with snake-inspired arts and crafts or capture unforgettable memories with photo ops featuring various reptiles. Little ones are in for a treat with complimentary fortune cookies

The Green Planet™ Dubai, City Walk, Jan 24 to 31, 10am to 6pm, visit www.thegreenplanetdubai.com, @thegreenplanetdubai

LEGOLAND

The resort is offering a vibrant 10-day celebration until February 2, 2025, with unique activities like the Lucky Red Envelope Hunt, LEGO Snake Build, and family-friendly parades. Have a sleepover at the hotel, embark on a thrilling hunt around the hotel for hidden red envelopes filled with surprises, including LEGO gifts, treats, and vouchers, build Chinese lanterns, enjoy themed colouring and arts and crafts, and an exciting after-party filled with music and fun. The perfect time out for the family. 

LEGOLAND Hotel Dubai, Parks & Resorts, until Feb 2, Tel: (0) 4 825 1650, @legolanddubai

JLT

 

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JLT has announced its Chinese New Year event, taking place at JLT Park on Wednesday, January 29 between 4pm and 8pm. The free, fun-filled cultural experience will bring together the best of Chinese traditions for the whole family to enjoy. The afternoon will include activations like crafts, tea-tasting, calligraphy experiences, Chinese ring toss games, face painting and the chance to adorn traditional Chinese garments. Entertainment includes Chinese traditional dancing, dragon dance and the Sichuan face changing performance.

Register here to attend

Eauzone

Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Eauzone, One&Only Royal Mirage, with a Lunar New Year feast from January 27 to 31. Surrounded by serene waters, indulge in a curated menu blending tradition and modern flair, featuring highlights like the prosperity toss salad and roasted peking duck, symbolizing joy and abundance. On January 29, the celebration reaches its peak with glowing lanterns and a mesmerizing traditional lion dance under the stars, creating unforgettable moments for family and friends.

Eauzone, One&Only Royal Mirage, Jan 27 to 31, 6pm onwards, Dhs368, Tel: (0) 4 399 9999, @ooroyalmirage

MOTIONGATE

Celebrate Chinese New Year with two weeks of thrilling festivities at MOTIONGATE™ Dubai from January 18 to February 2. Make a wish on the enchanting cherry blossom wish tree or test your skills in the red warrior challenge. Don’t miss the kung fu academy show, a lively performance filled with action and laughs, where you can also snap a photo with Po himself. Enjoy the Kung Fu Panda zone’s rides, including Mr. Ping’s Noodle Fling and Kung Fu Panda Unstoppable Awesomeness. Complete your adventure with authentic flavors at Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop.

MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Jan 18 to Feb 2, tickets at Dhs295 online, Dhs330 at the gate, Tel: (0) 4 820 0000, @motiongatedubai

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Ladurée

chinese new year

The luxury French patisserie is introducing an exquisite limited-edition 12-piece macaron box adorned in the shades of red and gold. Guests can customize their macarons with assorted options, priced at Dhs210. Available for purchase at all outlets across Dubai, including the iconic Dubai Mall restaurant, the Tea Room at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates’ Tea Room, Dubai Festival City Mall, Nakheel Mall, Dubai Hills restaurant, City Centre Al Zahia restaurant, Abu Dhabi Mall restaurant, Yas Mall restaurant, Al Bateen,and Marina Mall restaurant.

Ladurée, across various locations, Dhs210, @ladureeuae

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