DUBAI - The Arabian Radio Network, ARN, in partnership with Hala China, a joint initiative between Meraas and Dubai Holding, have announced the launch of a new dedicated 24-hour radio station called ‘The Sound of the Dubai Dragon’, which will serve the resident Chinese population in the UAE.

The announcement follows the official launch of Hala China, which aims to enhance both economic and cultural exchanges, and drive investment cooperation between Dubai and China. The new radio station launch also coincides with the state visit of the President Xi Jinping of China, set to deepen ties with the UAE government.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hala China, Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, said, "Hala China aims to foster collaboration between local and international companies that can add value to our objective of increasing bilateral trade and tourism, while further strengthening the very positive relationship that exists between the UAE and China." "We are focusing on key drivers for Chinese residents and visitors to Dubai, including culture and heritage, leisure, entertainment and luxury retail – and the creation of a new radio station will have benefits across each of these sectors. By providing Chinese audiences with experiences and services such as our Mandarin Chinese hotline, concierge service services and this new Chinese digital radio station, we are confident that Chinese leisure and business travelers will all feel more welcome and engaged in Dubai," he added.

Translated from Mandarin, 'The Sound of the Dubai Dragon' radio station will be available on all android and iOs devices by downloading the app ‘Dubai Dragon’. The app will soon be integrated into ARN’s Apple TV application, so consumers can access news, music and information on the UAE wherever they are.

Mahmoud al Rasheed, General Manager of ARN, said, "Our strategic focus on the Chinese community follows the UAE government’s initiative to develop trade and tourism links with China. Radio is an integral part of the quality of life of residents, and this new station will help new Chinese residents feel at home in the UAE. The station will be a bridge to Emirati culture, helping educate and inform this new dynamic community with the latest UAE national news and information, assisting them with access to government services and to be aware of the rich history of the United Arab Emirates. We take great pride in sharing our culture and helping communities understand more about the country they live in."

© Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2018.