In Dubai they never do anything by halves, so when they decided to have a Chinatown they also decided that it would be the biggest ever! This announcement was made just ahead of the historic visit by the Chinese President Xi Jingping to the UAE. Here is what we know so far and here is what to expect from the Dubai Chinatown.
The Chairman of the group, Mohamed Alabbar has issued a statement about the strong bilateral trade and cultural ties between China and the UAE. He also pointed out the fact that approx between two and three hundred thousand Chinese expats currently live and work in the UAE. On top of that the UAE receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year from China.
There will be a new Chinese retail and lifestyle district that is planned to form a part of the Dubai Creek Harbour mega development. The project completion date is not yet known. However, we do know that this is a project meant to strengthen ties between UAE and China.
In the past few years there has been a 120% growth in the number of Chinese visitors into Dubai or about a 40% yearly growth. China is a huge investor in sectors such as construction and real estate in the UAE. The proposed Chinatown will be a huge attraction for visitors and investors.
In view of the increase in trade between China and the UAE in recent times, Chinese President Xi Jingping will be visiting the area for the first time as the leader of his country. Local businesses will be looking to expand their own business interests with Chinese partners and into Chinese territories.
The proposed development is meant to be the central retail segment of Emaar’s Dubai Creek Harbour development. It will be conveniently close to the Burj Khalifa and just a ten minute drive to the airport as well. The development will feature Chinese brands as well as international brands that are popular in the UAE.
For those who don’t want to wait until the proposed Chinatown becomes a reality, there is already a 1.6 million square foot dragon-shaped market – the Dragonmart Complex that has been the hub of activity for Chinese expats in the area. It has been known as Dubai’s China town since 2004. Dragon Mart Dubai is where you can pick up Chinese items at wholesale or retail prices, shop for arts and craft, décor and antiques and even grab a bite at the 3-star hotel on the premises.
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