Dubai Police, over 3,000 performers celebrate Year of the Horse at Expo City
- Last updated: February 11, 2026 | 14:29 ..
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
In a powerful display of cultural unity, Dubai Police mounted units participated in the Happy Chinese New Year Grand Parade at Expo City Dubai, kicking off the city's Year of the Horse celebrations.
This year, Chinese New Year overlaps with the Holy Month of Ramadan, creating a rare and meaningful cultural moment. The mounted police units embodied a shared reverence across cultures – with the horse recognised in both Chinese and Islamic traditions as a symbol of strength, power, and nobility.
Nearly 40 marching formations and more than 3,000 performers created a vibrant procession that brought together both Chinese heritage and Emirati culture, with spectacular performances, intricate floats, and authentic traditions filling the day with colour and energy.
Organised by the Consulate General of China in Dubai and Expo City Dubai, with support from Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the parade served as a flagship moment within Dubai’s wider Chinese New Year programme, reinforcing the city’s commitment to bringing communities together and celebrating diversity.
The spectacular procession symbolised "Connect Future," blending traditional heritage celebrations with contemporary innovation across three immersive themed zones.
The Heritage Experience Zone showcased authentic Chinese craftsmanship – from Ningxia Embroidery and Xiamen Lacquer Thread Carving to Jingdezhen Porcelain – alongside traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, and Hanfu styling experiences.
The Science & Technology Innovation Zone highlighted contemporary Chinese innovation, featuring autonomous vehicles, robots, and AR interactive experiences, illustrating the role of technology as a bridge for cultural and commercial exchange, while also showcasing outcomes of China-Arab cooperation.
The Cultural & Culinary Zone offered regional Chinese specialities including Xinjiang dishes, Yunnan coffee, and Imperial Fragrance Garden cultural products, creating an authentic gastronomic journey through China's diverse provinces.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: "Today’s parade reflected what Dubai represents – a global city where traditions are respected, cultures connect, and communities come together. From Dubai Police on horseback to thousands of performers and visitors, this celebration demonstrated the power of cultural exchange and marked the beginning of a wider programme of Year of the Horse experiences across the city."
The Happy Chinese New Year Grand Parade served as the spectacular opening chapter of Dubai's Year of the Horse celebrations, which continue until February 22 with citywide programming including contemporary Chinese culture activations at Mall of the Emirates, thrilling attractions across iconic Dubai landmarks, specially curated dining experiences at Michelin-starred and award-winning restaurants, and exclusive shopping promotions across key retail destinations citywide.
About Chinese New Year in Dubai:
Chinese New Year is an annual 15-day festival celebrated in China and Chinese communities around the world, beginning with the new moon that occurs between 21 January and 20 February.
In Dubai, the Chinese New Year has become a citywide programme of cultural experiences, performances, dining, retail, and entertainment that honours Chinese heritage while reflecting the city's multicultural character.
As part of Dubai's Retail Calendar, Chinese New Year demonstrates the city's commitment to celebrating the diverse communities that make it one of the world's most inclusive and globally connected destinations.
The festival brings together cultural partners, international stakeholders, and private-sector brands to deliver meaningful, curated experiences that honour tradition while embracing the spirit of togetherness that defines Dubai.
About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment:
Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the city's positioning as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping, and events.