Jebel Hafit Desert Park to host first-ever Winds of Culture concert celebrating Chinese New Year
Taking place on February 15 and 16, this unique event will celebrate the Chinese New Year through a harmonious fusion of classical music, cultural heritage, and the beauty of nature, bringing audiences an immersive encounter with both Chinese and Emirati traditions. Moreover, reflecting the strong and growing cultural ties between the two nations, Winds of Culture will be held under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the UAE and is also supported by the China Cultural Centre.
With Al Ain, dubbed as Abu Dhabi's 'Garden City' for its lush parks, rich culture, and exciting attractions, being named as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025, the selection of Jebel Hafit Desert Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — as a hosting venue is a fitting tribute to both its historical significance and its awe-inspiring natural grandeur.
The two-day event will see the park transformed into a cultural hub, with a meticulously curated programme that begins on February 15 with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, where guests will enjoy the delicate art of tea-making accompanied by the soulful saxophone melodies of Wang Zihao. This will be followed by a piano recital by the renowned Chinese pianist Churen Li, who will present a mesmerising repertoire that blends classical finesse with modern interpretation. The evening will continue with vibrant traditional Chinese performances, celebrating the country's deep cultural roots through music and dance. For those opting for the VIP experience, the night will conclude with an exclusive starlit dinner, offering a traditional Chinese cuisine in a setting rich in heritage and nature.
The celebration will extend into February 16, beginning with an authentic Emirati breakfast, where guests can experience the warmth of traditional UAE hospitality, while being treated to a live performance of Chinese flute music by the renowned Yongjie Lu, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere further enhanced by traditional Chinese kites soaring gracefully above the desert landscape, symbolising good fortune and prosperity.
Pura Eco Retreats, the mind behind this project, is an Emirati-born concept that has taken on the mission of reconnecting people with the untouched wonders of the natural world. Inspired by the UAE's ancestral wisdom and deep-rooted traditions, Pura Eco Retreats creates sanctuaries that offer guests an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the rhythms of the land, sea, and sky, carefully weaving cultural richness and modern comforts to allow guests to experience awe, tranquility, and a profound sense of belonging. The Winds of Culture initiative fits perfectly with this goal, taking classical music and traditional performances beyond conventional venues and into the heart of nature, while bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary artistic expression, and offering audiences a deep cultural and sensory experience in an open-air setting.
The event promises to be an unparalleled experience for all, where music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike can gather to witness a rare meeting of traditions, and welcome the Chinese New Year in a setting unlike any other. Moreover, for those wishing to extend their visit, Pura Eco Retreats also offers luxury glamping options, providing further opportunities to experience the tranquil beauty of the desert overnight. Additionally, special hotel rates in Al Ain have been arranged for attendees looking to make the most of this unique cultural celebration.
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