DUBAI: The Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai joined the Pakistani Christian community in celebrating Easter at a special event held at the Ruwi Hotel in Sharjah over the weekend.
Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and extended warm Easter greetings to community members.
In his address, the Consul General praised the Pakistani Christian community for their vital contributions to sectors such as education and healthcare, adding that they form an integral part of the nation’s identity abroad. “You are our ambassadors, representing Pakistan and your achievements are a source of immense pride for our nation,” he said.
He also underlined the importance of building a society rooted in tolerance, equality, and mutual respect. Community Welfare Attachés Imran Shahid and Junaid Murtaza also participated in the event, conveying heartfelt wishes for peace and happiness.
Pastor Wilson George, who led the Easter prayers, expressed gratitude to the Consul General and consulate officials for their presence and support.
Pakistani Christian community
The event was attended by a large number of Pakistani Christian families residing in the UAE, who joined together in prayers, hymns, and fellowship. The venue was adorned with traditional Easter decorations, and special prayers were held for peace in Pakistan and the wider world.
It was a also celebration to promote interfaith harmony and national solidarity among Pakistani expatriates. Community members highlighted the freedom they enjoy in the UAE to practise their religion and the opportunities the country provides for all faiths to flourish.
Easter 2025 in UAE
Across the UAE, churches were filled with worshippers marking Easter Sunday with great enthusiasm. Special masses were held at Catholic churches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, reflecting the multicultural makeup of the Christian community in the region. The Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, Bishop Paolo Martinelli OFM Cap, shared his Easter message via video, encouraging Christians “to become pilgrims of hope.”
“Hope is expressed in the peace that we exchange today in Easter joy,” Bishop Martinelli said in his homily, which was broadcast during all masses. Services were conducted in multiple languages, including Urdu, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Konkani, Sinhala, Arabic, English and Filipino, ensuring inclusivity for congregants from diverse backgrounds.
Churches and community halls also hosted family-oriented activities such as Easter egg hunts, choir performances and festive meals. The vibrant celebrations not only brought together expatriate Christians from Pakistan but also those from India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and various African nations.