Ties that bind: Kung fu, food, language learning

Once Al Dhaheri is competent in Chinese he foresees himself working as an imports and exports coordinator or international sales representative.

Alshamsi says: "I hope that many more will follow in their footsteps because these bright young minds represent the future."

The enthusiasm for China, its people and its language is also felt at Hamdan Bin Rashid Boys School in Dubai, where more than 300 students in the ninth and 10th grades are studying Mandarin.

Abdulla Mohammad Ali Aldarmaki, a 10th-grade student, says: "I started learning Chinese because I thought it would be a cool skill to have, something not everyone can do. I'm also interested in kung fu, and learning Chinese makes me feel closer to the world of martial arts."

For Sultan Majed, 15, who has not yet traveled to China, a fascination with authentic Chinese food motivates his interest in learning Chinese.

"Hotpot is my favorite because it's a social meal that people gather for and enjoy. I'd love to go to Guangzhou and Beijing one day."

Of course, the connections between the countries go far beyond martial arts and food. Majed says that one thing he appreciates is that both cultures value hospitality, family and respect for elders.

"It's amazing how similar we are."