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Rare ceramic artifacts brought to Ras Al Khaimah by Chinese royal voyages during the Ming Dynasty are shedding new light on centuries of cultural and trade exchanges between China and the Arab world.

Ou Boqian, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, highlighted the discovery while speaking on the sidelines of the Spring Festival celebrations in Ras Al Khaimah.

The artifacts were uncovered through a joint archaeological mission involving the Palace Museum in Beijing, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, and Duke University in the UK. They provide tangible evidence of the maritime Silk Road, showing how Chinese fleets connected China with the Arab world centuries ago.

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“These findings allow us to trace our relations back several hundred years, showing how trade, exploration, and cultural exchange brought our civilisations together,” Ou said. She described the collaboration as a powerful symbol of friendship, teamwork, and shared heritage.

These historical ties are reflected today in Ras Al Khaimah’s growing economic engagement with China. Brent Anderson, Chief Commercial Officer at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority RAKTDA, said the emirate is seeing a significant increase in Chinese companies entering through the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). “We work very closely with Huawei, particularly through the Huawei Developer Conference, which brings Chinese companies to Ras Al Khaimah to explore new opportunities,” he noted.

Chinese investment spans technology, engineering, construction, automotive manufacturing, and tourism. Several major travel companies are exploring opportunities to develop resorts, hotels, restaurants, and visitor experiences in the emirate. Anderson also highlighted collaboration in advanced technologies and industrial development, explaining that knowledge-sharing between Chinese and Emirati companies supports sustainable economic growth.

Brent Anderson

Meanwhile, plans are underway to explore direct flights to China from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, which could boost tourism and expand two-way trade.

Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to these historical and economic links, the Spring Festival took place on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah. Organised by the Chinese Consulate in collaboration with the Ras Al Khaimah government, the event was part of a UAE-wide celebration of the Silk Road and Chinese culture.

Attendees were immersed in a rich cultural experience. They observed the graceful art of Chinese tea-serving etiquette and participated in traditional handicrafts, including mother-of-pearl hairpin-making, paper-cutting, and lacquered fan-making. Attendees enjoyed trying on Hanfu, exploring Chinese calligraphy and painting, and watching a short theatrical performance that recreated elegant gatherings along the Silk Road.

Imad, a mechanical engineering student from South Africa studying at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, expressed excitement about the festival. “Trying on traditional attire and exploring unique art forms like water-based painting was very informative,” he said, adding that the festival offered a hands-on way to engage with Chinese history and customs.

Imad

Speaking about the Spring Festival, Ou Boqian noted that cultural events help deepen understanding and strengthen ties between China and the UAE. The celebrations will culminate in a major event at Dubai Expo City on February 8, featuring performances, parades, and technology showcases.

Ou Boqian

Through both archaeological discoveries and cultural celebrations, Ras Al Khaimah continues to honour its centuries-old ties with China, offering residents and visitors a window into a rich legacy of trade, culture, and shared heritage.

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