(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) The coronavirus pandemic is forcing many people around the world to change the way they celebrate Lunar New Year, the most important holiday in the Chinese zodiac calendar. In the UAE, Chinese nationals have resorted to subdued celebrations — strictly with family and friends — to ensure safety.
Several restaurants have rolled out food and beverage that will continue till February 20.
Pach Ang, an Abu Dhabi resident who is a Singaporean Chinese belonging to the Peranakan community, said: 'The way we celebrate Chinese New Year is very different from the way people in the Far East mark it or those in mainland China. We are a minority community among Singaporean Chinese.
He added: 'A week before the Chinese New Year, we hang a red banner above the entrance door of the house. Then on the eve of the New Year, the entire family sits down for a reunion dinner comprising a steamboat (hotpot) which is a stew mixed with vegetables, tofu and meat.
Ang pointed out: 'The following day, we usually have friends and relatives either for lunch or dinner. But this year due to Covid-19, we have restricted the number of guests for safety reasons.
He explained: 'Pineapple prawns and Chicken Pong Teh are some of the dishes cooked. We also prepare pineapple tarts and semolina cookies. So, it's traditionally a time of feasting together with the loved ones. The Chinese New Year is celebrated for 15 days and yesterday was the first day. Again, towards the last few days, we typically have gatherings over meals.
'Thankfully, we have restaurants open in Dubai. We will probably have a meal together as a family to celebrate. Nothing much. Most of the wishes will be shared online, through Zoom calls or messages, said Xiaoping Xu, who has been celebrating the New Year in Dubai at City Walk for the last three years.
Meanwhile in Abu Dhabi, malls and restaurants are buzzing with a flurry of activities. Residents can enjoy authentic Chinese experiences with virtual wishing trees, traditional food and festive shopping offers.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island's ‘Tree of Fortune' has been decked up with red envelopes a traditional Chinese practice of wishing good fortune. People can scan the QR code at the tree to receive a digital scratch card, which has several offers from retailers. Additionally, there are 12 standees throughout the mall where people can learn about their Chinese zodiac sign, personality traits, attributes and fortunes.
David Robinson, general manager, the Galleria Al Maryah Island, said the Chinese-themed experiences will run till February 20. 'As always, we remain committed to delivering the highest standards of health and safety for all and ensure our guests can enjoy their shopping experience. Those who spend Dh500 at the mall will be rewarded with an authentic Chinese ceramic bowl and chopsticks set that can be personalised by a Chinese calligraphy artist.
Till February 26, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi at Emirates Palace will offer a limited-edition signature menu featuring dishes believed to bring good health and fortune. The specially curated menu includes Yu Sheng salad, Quail blossom puff coupled with a seafood jade dumpling, crispy kumquat chicken, wok-fry tiger prawn with macadamia nut, braised abalone roasted duck fried rice with dried scallop and shiitake mushroom. The grand finale is the Mandarin dessert, which is traditionally given to the loved ones on New Year.
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