UAE: Dubai celebrates Pakistan's 77th Independence Day with massive gathering
The event showcased the rich cultural diversity of Pakistan, featuring a variety of performances, including traditional music and dance, as well as exhibitions of Pakistani handicrafts.
Dubai: Dubai transformed into a vibrant celebrations of Pakistani culture and unity as it marked the nation's 77th Independence Day on August 11..
Over 20,000 people gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre to partake in a twelve-hour extravaganza themed 'Jashen-s-Azadi Pakistan'. Pakistan Independence Day falls on August 14 but the mega event was held over the weekend.
The event showcased the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and Pakistan, offering a platform for cultural exchange, entertainment, and recognition of the Pakistani community's significant contributions.
A collaborative spectacle
The event was a collaborative endeavor, brought to life by Emirates Loves Pakistan and Pakistan Association Dubai at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This grand spectacle drew a crowd of over 20,000 attendees, transforming the Dubai World Trade Centre into a vibrant celebrations of Pakistani culture and the enduring UAE-Pakistan friendship.
The guest list was a testament to the event's significance. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, graced the occasion with his presence, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to the bilateral relationship. Accompanying him was Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, the Pakistani Ambassador to the UAE, along with a distinguished assembly of diplomats and dignitaries.
Sheikh Nahyan eloquently underscored the strong foundation of shared values and beliefs that underpin the UAE-Pakistan relationship. "We have hope and strong resolve for achieving progress and peace in all corners of the world," he stated, emphasizing the growing global influence of both nations.
Honoring excellence
The event was a platform to recognise and celebrate the exceptional contributions of Pakistani expatriates in various fields. A galaxy of stars, including prominent figures from business, academia, and the culinary world, were honored for their remarkable achievements.
Dr. Faisel Ikram, renowned for establishing the largest community center for overseas Pakistanis, including a pioneering non-profit healthcare facility, was among the distinguished awardees.
Dr. Yarjan Abdul Samad, a leading researcher in graphene and 2D materials for aerospace applications, was celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions.
Chaudhry Abdul Hameed, the culinary maestro behind the iconic Ravi Restaurant, was honored for his indelible mark on Dubai's food scene.
Halima Jumani, co-founder of Kibsons, a leading grocery brand in the UAE.
Mudassir Sheikha, co-founder of Careem, a revolutionary transportation platform.
Yahya Jan, the visionary architect behind the upcoming "Ciel Tower," was also recognized for his exceptional achievements.
Naila Kiani, a pioneering mountaineer who conquered 11 of the world’s 14 highest peaks, was honored for her extraordinary achievements.
Sporting legends
The event was further elevated by the presence of Pakistan's sporting icons, whose extraordinary talents have brought immense pride and glory to the nation. Cricket legend Shahid Afridi, known for his explosive batting and charismatic personality, graced the occasion with his presence.
Joining him was squash champion Jahangir Khan, whose unparalleled dominance in the sport remains etched in the annals of history.
Mudassir Sheikh, co-founder of Careem, received accolades for revolutionising the transportation sector in the region.
A Day of unity and celebration
The atmosphere was electric, filled with the pulsating rhythms of traditional music, captivating dance performances, and a dazzling array of Pakistani handicrafts. The event transcended borders as Emiratis joined the festivities, underscoring the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.
An Emirati attendee expressed his admiration for the Pakistani community's invaluable contributions to the UAE's development and shared fond memories of Pakistani cuisine. A
A Pakistani lecturer, encapsulated the spirit of the event, expressing her joy in sharing this momentous occasion with her family.
The event also paid homage to Pakistan's recent Olympic triumph, with a dedicated stall celebrating Arshad Nadeem's historic gold medal win in javelin.
Bond for future
The UAE and Pakistan share a longstanding relationship, bolstered by strategic partnerships and growing economic ties. Since its establishment in 1971 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE has been a major supporter of development in Pakistan.
This partnership includes significant investments, with the UAE recently committing US$10 billion to promising sectors in Pakistan.
- Award winners
- Dr Faisel Ikram, President of the Pakistan Association Dubai. Recognised for his efforts in establishing the largest community center for overseas Pakistanis, and the non-for-profit Pakistan Medical Centre in Dubai.
- Shahid Afridi, Pakistan's cricket legend. He was honoured for his record-breaking achievements and charitable work.
- Squash champion Jahangir Khan: He won the World Open title six times, and the British Open title ten times. Khan was unbeaten and won 555 consecutive matches.
- Dr Yarjan Abdul Samad, Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Khalifa University, UAE. He was among the team of scientists on European Space Agency (ESA)’s Zero Gravity flights.
- Chaudhry Abdul Hameed, founder of the renowned Ravi Restaurant in Dubai. He was also recognised for his impact on Dubai's culinary scene.
- Halima Jumani, Co-founder of Kibsons, Dubai, She has played a pivotal role in establishing the brand as a leading name in the UAE's grocery market.
- Mudassir Sheikh, co-founder of Careem, received accolades for revolutionising the transportation sector in the region.
- Yahya Jan, President and Design Director at NORR, was honoured for his contributions to architecture, including the design of the upcoming "Ciel tower" set to be the tallest hotel in the world.
Naila Kiani, the first Pakistani woman & overall third Pakistani to climb 11 of the 14 highest peaks above 8,000-metres was also given the award but she could not attend the event.