Ties that bind: Kung fu, food, language learning

A student practices Chinese calligraphy as part of China's National Day celebrations. PHOTO PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY Li Kaixian, a Chinese language teacher at Hamdan Bin Rashid Boys School, fondly recalls his first Spring Festival in Dubai last year. He was deeply moved by the friendliness and enthusiasm as a Chinese dragon flew around Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure, in a drone light show, he says. Afaf Aldarwish, principal of the school, says: "Since we introduced Chinese classes at Hamdan Bin Rashid Boys School, the effect on our students and school culture has been remarkable. "Beyond language, learning Chinese has provided a fresh cultural perspective, allowing our students to connect more deeply with the world and fostering a unique bond between the UAE and China."