Chinese President Xi Jinping is paying a state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday. This marks Xi's first visit to a foreign country since he was appointed to a second term in March this year, and also the first to the UAE by a Chinese head of state in 29 years.
People from all circles in the UAE welcome President Xi's visit, with many landmark buildings lit up in red to mark the event.
To coincide with his visit, the UAE also launched UAE-China Week from July 17 to 24, aimed at enhancing trade cooperation and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Burj Al Arab, Dubai's most iconic hotel, displays a huge Chinese national flag. (Photo: UAE Today)
Burj Al Arab, Dubai's most iconic hotel, is lit up in red. (Photo: UAE Today)
Landmark buildings in Abu Dhabi, UAE are lit up in red. (Photo: 24 ae)
Landmark buildings in Abu Dhabi, UAE are lit up in red. (Photo: 24 ae)
Electronic screens on the streets said "welcome" both in Chinese and Arabic in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE. (Photo: UAE Today)
A people takes picture of the Burj Khalifa, which was lit up in red. (Photo: People's Daily online)
Landmark buildings in UAE are decorated to welcome President Xi's visit. (Photos: People's Daily/Wang Xiaodong)