Galloping into the UAE, upcoming Chinese Year of the Horse brings festive joy to locals

DUBAI, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- With the Chinese Year of the Horse approaching, the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, has already galloped across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), racing into cities and campuses alike.

The Chinese Year of the Horse will begin on Feb. 17, 2026, according to the Chinese lunar calendar. However, the celebrations have already begun in the Gulf country.

From Dubai, to Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Sharjah, the aroma of tea, the strokes of calligraphy brushes and the rhythmic splash of dragon boat paddles have carried attendees on a journey thousands of miles east.