Discover UAE's Chinese New Year Festivities
Chinese New Year in UAE: 6 Things to Know about the Year of the Snake
The Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom and transformation in Chinese tradition, offers an opportunity for personal growth and change. The celebration, which includes family gatherings, red decorations, feasts, and parades, brings together millions of Chinese worldwide every year as one of the longest festivals.
The event is also known as the Lunar New Year, meaning its date changes annually according to the lunar calendar. Let's see what to know about this year's Chinese New Year in the UAE!
1. When is the Chinese New Year in 2025?
In 2025, the Chinese New Year falls on Wednesday, January 29th, and the celebration ends on February 12th with the Lantern Festival. The event is divided into three main phases:
a, Little Year: Preparations are from January 21st to New Year's Eve.
b, Spring Festival: The Lunar New Year officially begins on January 29th and ends on February 8th.
c, Lantern Festival: Preparations begin on February 9th, and the festival itself will be on February 12th.
2. How long do the celebrations last?
Celebrations can last up to 16 days, but officially only the first 7 days (January 29th to February 4th) are considered a public holiday in China. The event lasts from the new moon between January 21st and February 20th to the next full moon.
3. How is it celebrated in the UAE?
For the Chinese community living in the UAE, the Lunar New Year is an important cultural event encompassing ancestor respect, family reunions, and preparation for fortune in the coming year.
In 2024, a spectacular parade at Burj Park featured colorful dragons dancing to rhythmic beats at the foot of the world's tallest tower, bringing happiness and success.
For 2025, the Chinese Consulate in Dubai organizes six events, including an electric vehicle exhibition and a Lantern Festival showcasing interactive technologies.
4. When to wish Happy New Year?
The "Happy New Year!" wish can be expressed anytime during the celebration period, but it holds particular significance on New Year’s Day and its eve, as good wishes set the tone for the upcoming year.
5. What animal year will 2025 be?
2025 will be the Year of the Snake, which in Chinese tradition symbolizes wisdom, intuition, and change. Snakes are known for their strategic thinking, problem-solving ability, and excellent communication skills.
6. Who will the Year of the Snake be lucky for?
The Year of the Snake may bring luck to those born under the signs of the Ox, Rabbit, Dragon, Horse, Goat, Rooster, Dog, and Rat. However, those born under the Snake sign traditionally need to be cautious as the year may bring challenges for them.
How to participate in the UAE celebrations?
Chinese New Year celebrations in the UAE warmly welcome everyone. If you want to experience the beauty of Chinese culture, visit various events in Dubai, and participate in the Lantern Festival where modern technology and traditions merge.
Wishing you a Happy Year of the Snake!
