Chinese School Dubai serves as a bridge between cultures

Emiliya learns Mandarin three or four times a week with the help of home tutors, but she said this is not enough.

She wants to attend a boarding in China for high school and study diplomacy at a top Chinese university. "Mandarin isn't just a languageit's my gateway to global citizenship," said the teenager.

Her fascination with China was sparked by a two-hour documentary showcasing the country's impressive infrastructure and culture.

"I loved this so much," she said. "The presenter traveled to many Chinese cities. I was astonished by the people, the environment, the infrastructure and the governments. I thought I need to go there, and see it with my own eyes."