Golden Dragon celebrates 50 years of memories and culinary heritage in UAE

Long before Dubai became a global culinary destination, Golden Dragon was introducing residents to Chinese cuisine, creating memories that would endure for generations. Fifty years later, the restaurant has reunited the people and families who helped shape its journey.

Founded on October 14, 1976, in Bur Dubai by the late K.M. Bhatia under KM Brothers, Golden Dragon emerged as one of the UAE’s earliest Chinese restaurants, opening when the country was just five years old.

The restaurant’s beginnings were shaped by Sunder Mans, then General Manager of KM Brothers, who travelled to China to personally select furniture, equipment and traditional artefacts. The original interiors were designed by Mumbai-based architect Lalitha Sakthi, with fit-out work undertaken by Chandrasekhar.

The golden jubilee celebration brought together Bhatia’s wife Kamla, son Kamlesh and his family, daughter Pinky, former employees, longtime patrons and friends. Mirza Hussain Al Sayegh, the UAE’s first Ambassador to India, attended as chief guest and joined the ceremonial cake-cutting.

Among those celebrating was K. Muraleedharan, Chairman and Managing Director of SFC Group, whose professional journey began at KM Brothers.

“Golden Dragon’s 50th anniversary is deeply personal to me. My professional journey began with KM Brothers, and I still remember with gratitude Mr. Sunder Mans signing my appointment letter. Today, we fondly remember the late Mr. K. M. Bhatia, who founded this wonderful restaurant.

“To celebrate this occasion with his family, Mr. Sunder Mans, former colleagues and longtime friends is truly special. When we became involved with Golden Dragon in 2013, we felt a responsibility to preserve the legacy they had created. It is heartwarming to see that legacy continuing across generations.”

Muraleedharan also expressed gratitude to Al Sayegh for attending the celebration.

Over the decades, Golden Dragon became a gathering place for birthdays, family celebrations and weekend meals. In its early years, diners even travelled from Abu Dhabi to experience its Chinese cuisine.

Traditional favourites, including Dragon Dumplings, Mapo Tofu, Chilli Chicken and Dragon Pot Rice, remain on the menu, alongside newer Asian dishes such as Singaporean Chilli Crab.

To preserve its history, the restaurant is inviting longtime guests to share photographs and personal memories from its earlier years.

Now part of SFC Group, Golden Dragon continues to expand. Following its recent opening at Sharjah Central Mall, a new outlet is scheduled to open at Deerfields Mall in Abu Dhabi on October 21.

Five decades on, its legacy remains rooted in the people, friendships and memories created around the dining table.