Chinese New Year will be celebrated on January 29th this year, marking the biggest festival for the Chinese community around the world. In the UAE, the Lunar New Year marks a significant time of celebration for the expat community, with an impact several industries, especially the F&B sector, as restaurants gear up to handle increased footfall during this period.
“Chinese New Year is a significant event for Dubai’s restaurant industry, with the potential to boost revenues through themed dining, cultural events, and catering to the local Chinese population as well as tourists,” Firat Saridikmen, Director of Food & Beverage at Banyan Tree Dubai said in an exclusive interview with Arabian Business.
Saridikmen attributed the growing demand to “the growing Chinese expatriate population, the influx of Chinese tourists, the cultural significance of the holiday, and the restaurant industry’s ability to create unique, festive dining experiences.”
In response to increased demand, restaurants in Dubai gear up for the Lunar New Year with curated menus, festive décor, dining experiences are more.
“These celebrations are often paired with an entertainment element which is also something that attracts the footfall and sparks the interests further,” Diana Rysbaeva, Founder & CEO of SHI Hospitality Group.
Dubai’s diverse population fuels F&B demand
According to a recent report by Global Media Insight on the population in the UAE, the Chinese community currently represents over 2.16 per cent (0.27 million) of the country’s population.
However, the demand is not only driven by the Chinese community. The vast expat population made up of diverse nationalities is also a target market for F&B outlets during the celebratory period.
“Dubai’s diverse population plays a crucial role in driving demand during Chinese New Year celebrations, not only through participation by the Chinese community but also through engagement from non-Chinese expats, tourists, and even local Emiratis,” Saridikmen said.
According to Global Media Insight, the total expat population in the UAE reached 11.06 million in 2024.
“Dubai has probably the most diverse and international residential population that reside here 12 months out of the year. Moreover, Dubai Tourism has attracted a plethora of individuals coming from various countries and backgrounds,” said Rysbaeva.
“All this creates a melting pot for people to come together and celebrate one another’s traditions away from home. This therefore broadens people’s minds and creates this curiosity to try new experiences,” she added.
Moreover, there has been a growing demand for Chinese cuisine and fusion dishes in Dubai amid the city’s diverse culinary scene.
According to the Dubai Gastronomy Report by Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET), the city is home to over 13,000 restaurants and cafes. The top cuisines were ranked to be Italian, Lebanese, Indian, Emirati and Chinese.
Data by SmartScrapers revealed that there are 239 Chinese restaurants in the emirate as of December 1, 2024. This marks a 5.75 per cent increase from 2023.
Saridikmen explained that for Chinese New Year Dubai restaurants “go all out to ensure that they meet the surge in demand by creating authentic and memorable experiences for their guests.
Aside from specialised menus and decor, restaurants are also required to adjust staffing levels and enhance their marketing strategies.
“Effective marketing strategies for Chinese New Year celebrations are key to attracting guests and ensuring a successful festive period for restaurants. From digital marketing and influencer partnerships to offering exclusive menus and hosting live events, restaurants take advantage of various tactics to build excitement and boost visibility during this culturally significant holiday,” Saridikmen explained.
Social media – A key factor in shaping trends
The Dubai Gastronomy Report recognised social media as a key factor in shaping gastronomic trends. Over 82 per cent of survey respondents revealed that they sourced food trend information from online sources, mostly through social media.
SHI Hospitality Group’s Rysbaeva detailed the company’s “multi-faceted marketing approach” tailored towards the Lunar New Year.
“This includes utilising digital and social media platforms to highlight limited-time menu offerings, festive décor, and exclusive experiences. Collaborations with influencers and local media also play a key role in amplifying visibility. Additionally, we design special packages and events that integrate traditional Chinese elements, to engage both Chinese nationals and Dubai’s multicultural audience,” she said.
“By creating a blend of cultural authenticity and modern appeal, we ensure our venues stand out during this vibrant season,” she added.
Moreover, Rysbaeva affirmed that it is “important to maintain tradition” in the hospitality industry, similar to celebrations such as Christmas or Ramadan.
Over the years, there has been a shift in consumer preferences and behaviour during Chinese New Year. Saridikmen points towards growing preferences for “convenient, health-conscious and experience-driven” approach to dining.
This reflects a larger growing trend in the industry towards healthy and sustainable options. According to the Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, sustainability is a “crucial” trend, driving the F&B industry commitment in line with Dubai Economic Agenda – D33 and UAE Net Zero 2050.
“The growing demand for delivery services, the shift towards healthier and innovative dishes, and the desire for immersive dining experiences are all shaping how people celebrate the holiday. Additionally, the influence of technology, multiculturalism, sustainability, and evolving family dynamics all contribute to a more dynamic and diverse celebration of Chinese New Year in modern times,” Saridikmen said.
Experts believe that restaurants that can adapt to these evolving trends will be better suited to cater to consumer demand.
Looking ahead, based on previous patterns, Rysbaeva anticipates an influx of Chinese nationals coming to the UAE.
“This of course will aid in enhancing the festivity and create more of buzz around it. With that said, the continued globalisation has already shined a light on the celebration, and this will continue to grow as Dubai continues to set its footprint on the world map as a leading cosmopolitan city with so much to offer,” she said.
Similarly, Saridikmen pointed towards growth in demand surrounding Chinese New Year in the coming years, fuelled by several factors:
- Diverse expat population
- Increased interest in Chinese culture
- Growing disposable incomes
- Rise of experiential dining
- Growth in tourism
- Advancements in technology
- Shift towards health-conscious and sustainable dining
“As Dubai’s restaurant scene continues to adapt to these trends, the industry can expect an even larger influx of consumers looking to enjoy the vibrant and festive spirit of Chinese New Year in the coming years,” he concluded.
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