WATCH: Abu Dhabi hosts Pakistan Day celebrations in UAE
Sitara-i-Imtiaz awarded to Pakistani entrepreneur; tribute paid to late Sheikh Zayed through book launch
ABU DHABI: The Embassy of Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates held a reception on Tuesday to mark Pakistan Day, a historic occasion commemorating the Lahore Resolution of 1940 that led to the creation of the country on August 14, 1947.
The event drew members of the diplomatic corps, senior Emirati officials, and the Pakistani diaspora. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, graced the event as Chief Guest. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, was also in attendance.
Guests were welcomed with renditions of the national anthems of both Pakistan and the UAE, performed on traditional Pakistani instruments by local artists. The reception highlighted the enduring relationship between the two nations and celebrated cultural ties through music, literature, and awards.
Pakistan Day in UAE
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi highlighted the significance of the Pakistan Resolution and the journey of the nation from its early challenges to current efforts towards inclusive development. He pointed to Pakistan’s young population, growing female participation in public sectors, rich cultural and tourism potential, and a rapidly advancing IT industry as major opportunities for investment and collaboration.
The Ambassador reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and dialogue, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza and urging resolution of the Palestinian and Jammu and Kashmir conflicts in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions. He also praised the UAE’s rapid economic transformation over the past five decades, crediting the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his successors.
Cultural tribute
In a gesture of cross-cultural appreciation, the embassy unveiled a book titled “Sheikh Zayed Maimaar-e-Watan”, authored by noted Pakistani writer Khan Zaman Suroor. The publication, a tribute to the founding father of the UAE, was presented as a gift from the Pakistani community to the people and government of the Emirates.
A special highlight of the evening was the conferment of the Sitara-i-Imtiaz – the third-highest honour and civilian award in Pakistan – to prominent entrepreneur Adnan Niaz, in recognition of his outstanding contributions. The decoration was presented during the ceremony to honour his efforts in strengthening community ties and business excellence abroad.
The event served as a vibrant platform celebrating the enduring partnership between Pakistan and the UAE. With approximately 1.7 million Pakistanis living in the Emirates, the relationship remains anchored in mutual respect, economic cooperation, and people-to-people linkages.