Emirati Students Introduce UAE Heritage to Chinese Visitors at 'Emirati House'

UAE Students Turn Great Wall Marathon Into Cultural Bridge Between Nations

Emirati students studying in China have shown how sports and culture can work together to strengthen international ties. During the 2025 Zayed Charity Race and Huairou-Great Wall Marathon, these young volunteers didn't just help with logistics—they created a full cultural experience that impressed Chinese participants and visitors alike.

More Than Just Volunteers

The UAE students set up what they called the "UAE House" right at the entrance to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. But this wasn't just a tent with flags. These students spoke fluent Chinese and gave detailed explanations about Emirati culture, traditions, arts, and food to curious visitors.

Here's what made this special: instead of basic tourist information, the students shared deep cultural knowledge in the local language. Chinese visitors got to learn about UAE heritage directly from young Emiratis who could answer questions and have real conversations.

The Zayed Legacy in Action

The students made it clear they were following the example of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's founding father. His focus on humanitarian work and international cooperation shaped how these young people approached their volunteer roles.

During the marathon, they handled participant registration, provided logistical support, and guided runners. But they also used every interaction as a chance to build understanding between Emiratis and Chinese people.

Why This Matters for UAE's Global Strategy

This kind of cultural diplomacy fits perfectly with the UAE's broader international approach. The country has been positioning itself as a bridge between East and West, and these students showed how that works in practice.

Chinese participants specifically praised the UAE House for adding a "civilizational dimension" to the event. That's diplomatic language, but it points to something real—the UAE is building soft power through genuine cultural exchange, not just economic partnerships.

A New Model for Student Engagement

What happened at the Great Wall shows how countries can use their overseas students more effectively. Instead of just studying and returning home, these Emiratis became active cultural ambassadors while still in school.

This approach could influence how other Gulf states think about their students abroad. Rather than seeing study abroad as purely academic, there's clear value in encouraging students to engage with local communities and represent their home countries.

The success at the Great Wall marathon suggests this model works. Chinese organizers and participants responded positively, and the UAE students gained practical experience in cultural diplomacy. Both sides benefited from the exchange, which is exactly what sustainable international relationships need.