Source : WAM
Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts (ADREA) has concluded its landmark cultural initiative marking the Year of the Fire Horse, staged from 13th to 15th February.
Held at ADREA in collaboration with the Embassy of the UAE in China, the three-day event transformed the shared heritage symbol of the horse into a vibrant platform for artistic dialogue, community engagement, and forward-looking cultural diplomacy.
Drawing on the deep-rooted significance of the horse in both Emirati and Chinese traditions, the initiative extended beyond a ceremonial observance to examine the horse as an emblem of strength, continuity, craftsmanship, and movement across time and place. Through interactive workshops, live performances, and traditional activities, the programme positioned culture as a bridge linking histories, values, and ambitions across nations.
Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China, said, “The Year of the Fire Horse celebration reflected the strength and maturity of UAE–China relations, demonstrating how cultural exchange deepens mutual understanding and brings our peoples closer through shared heritage and values.”
Marking Chinese New Year through the lens of equestrian heritage, the event illustrated the growing evolution of UAE–China relations into a meaningful people-to-people connection. Over three days, ADREA welcomed families, creatives, practitioners, and cultural enthusiasts to take part in experiences that celebrated common values while encouraging dialogue and learning.
The programme unfolded as an immersive journey reflecting the horse’s enduring legacy. It began with ancestral and celestial themes inspired by Chinese cosmology and Gulf desert heritage, presented through creative workshops, tea ceremonies, and traditional performances. A Lion Dance and Al-Ayyala the UNESCO-recognised Emirati folk art highlighted themes of unity, pride, and shared identity, alongside displays of Arabic and Chinese calligraphy.
Attention then turned to the horse as a symbol of discipline, mastery, and noble strength, engaging audiences with participatory artistic experiences and culminating in Furusiyya: Return to Origins, ADREA’s signature classical horsemanship showcase. The performance traced the timeless bond between horse and rider across cultures and generations, expressing heritage through movement, precision, and artistry.
