Emiratis share UAE spirit at Beijing cultural fair

Emirati students studying in China have acted as cultural ambassadors, introducing visitors to their country's traditions and heritage at the “Al Bait Al Emarati” cultural fair held at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.

The students volunteered at the fair, engaging with the public in Mandarin to explain Emirati customs, arts and cuisine. They also volunteered in organising the Great Wall Marathon of Huairou 2025 and the Zayed Charity Run.

The students said their participation reflected the values of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and underscored their role as cultural ambassadors abroad.

Chinese participants praised the students' efforts, noting that the event showcased the UAE's role as a bridge for cultural communication.

The UAE Embassy in Beijing on September 19 inaugurated the “Al Bait Al Emarati” cultural event at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, as part of the activities of the Huairou Great Wall Marathon and the Zayed Charity Run 2025.

The event is being held for the first time in the Chinese capital, with broad participation from runners, amateurs and enthusiasts from across the world.

“Al Bait Al Emarati” offered visitors a deep dive into Emirati heritage, art, and traditions. Guests were treated to live folk performances like Al Ayyala, a traditional dance, and saw artisans demonstrating intricate handicrafts, including Al Sadu weaving, Al Talli embroidery, and palm-frond weaving. The pavilion also featured traditional hospitality and cuisine, reflecting the warmth of Arab culture.

Organised by the UAE Embassy in Beijing in conjunction with the marathon, the event aims to highlight the cultural dimension of the UAE and to reinforce its civilisational presence at one of the world’s most iconic historical landmarks.

The event quickly became a vibrant hub of interaction as Chinese visitors engaged with the cultural displays, watched the live performances, and showed keen interest in Emirati customs and folk traditions.

The inauguration of “Al Bait Al Emarati” reflects the UAE’s message of making culture a bridge for bringing people together, integrating it with sport in a global humanitarian event that promotes the values of health, peace and tolerance.

WAM