Strengthening China-UAE Ties through Education Projects

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The UAE’s relationship with China is unlike its relationship with any other country; for in addition to strategic economic, political, and security dimensions, it also has a unique cultural dimension. China and the UAE are working together to strengthen their ties by tackling what is perhaps the world’s most challenging language barrier: that between Arabic and Chinese. With the assistance of the UAE, China has established an Arabic language school for Chinese diplomats and those interested in doing business in the Middle East. But even more importantly, the UAE had made a major commitment to its long-term relationship with China by establishing a Chinese language immersion primary school for Emirati and Chinese students in Abu Dhabi. Set up in 2006, this fall the school will have kindergarten, first and second grade classes, and expects to add one grade each year till 12th grade. According to local education officials, the school is the first of its kind in the Middle East. Emirati parents who have enrolled their children speak of their belief that Chinese is the future, but also their interest in a rigorous educational system. This research project includes interviews with government officials, schoolteachers, students, and parents to find out the expectations of those involved and the possible long-term impacts of the school on UAE – China relations.