DUBAI: Dragon Mart, the largest Chinese mall and trading hub outside China, has made history by crafting the world’s largest fortune cookie.
Weighing an impressive 2.286 kilograms and measuring 30 cm in height and 58 cm in length, the colossal cookie was a collaborative effort with the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA) Dubai.
Created by a team of expert patisserie instructors, this Guinness World Record title is a testament to Dragon Mart’s commitment to innovation and celebration.
World's largest fortune cookie
As part of its 20th-anniversary festivities, Dragon Mart unveiled a breathtaking fortune cookie sculpture in the Main Hall. This larger-than-life masterpiece, standing 4 metres tall and 6 metres wide, serves as a striking homage to Chinese culture. Designed to replicate the record-breaking fortune cookie, it symbolises two decades of Dragon Mart’s significant impact on Dubai’s retail and cultural landscape.
Before Dragon Mart’s historic feat, the record for the largest fortune cookie was held by Nick DiGiovanni (USA) and Uncle Roger (Malaysia). Achieved in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, on 12 November 2022, their cookie weighed 1.47 kilograms (3 pounds 3 ounces) and measured 40 cm by 17 cm (16 inches by 7 inches). Crafted by a team of three, it took approximately four hours to complete.
Treasure hunt for shoppers
Adding a layer of excitement, Dragon Mart is hosting a fortune cookie treasure hunt. Twenty fortune cookies, each containing unique surprises, have been hidden across the mall. Shoppers can follow clues shared on social media until 8 January 2025 for a chance to win exclusive Dragon Mart products.
Celebrating Chinese traditions
Dragon Mart’s milestone celebration features a series of captivating activities honouring Chinese cultural heritage:
- Ribbon Dance: Witness performers create mesmerising patterns with flowing ribbons in a dynamic display symbolising joy and freedom.
- Fan Dance: Be enchanted by this ancient folk dance, celebrated for over two millennia.
- Dragon Dance: Experience the mythical dragon brought to life through skilled performances in elaborate costumes.
- Calligraphy and Lantern Workshops: Guests can engage in a Chinese bag calligraphy demonstration and create intricate lanterns in family-friendly workshops from 23 to 28 December.
- Cultural Photobooth: Visitors can capture memories in traditional Chinese attire, blending fun with cultural appreciation.
Entertainment runs daily from 20 to 24 December, with all activities scheduled between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. This vibrant programme offers a unique opportunity to delve into Chinese traditions, making it a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Dragon Mart Dubai
Since its inception in 2004, Dragon Mart has become a cornerstone of Dubai’s retail and cultural identity. Housing over 6,000 shops across two sprawling malls, it welcomes more than 40 million customers annually. Dragon Mart’s 20th anniversary underscores its transformative journey from a trading hub to a dynamic destination that blends commerce, entertainment, and cultural exchange.
Fareed Abdelrahman, Managing Director, Retail Destinations at Dubai Holding Asset Management, shared his thoughts on the milestone: “Dragon Mart’s 20th anniversary is a remarkable achievement that highlights its integral role in Dubai’s retail and cultural sectors. Setting a Guinness World Record™ title reflects our commitment to innovation and creating exceptional experiences for our community.”
Dragon Mart’s 20th-anniversary festivities continue until 12 January, with the giant fortune cookie sculpture serving as a centrepiece attraction. Visitors can expect to enjoy a mix of retail offerings, cultural showcases, and entertainment, ensuring a memorable experience for all.