Dubai's Emirates Loves Syria Event Draws Over 55,000 in Vibrant Celebration of Culture and Heritage

More than 55,000 individuals converged at Dubai's Zabeel Park on Saturday for the second edition of the 'Emirates Loves Syria' event, a grand celebration of Syrian culture and heritage. The occasion featured a televised address from Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara to the Syrian community residing in the UAE. Notable attendees included Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. The festival spotlighted Syrian culture, cuisine, music, and heritage, with a captivating headline performance by renowned Syrian singer Assala Nasri. The event successfully united prominent Syrian figures, business leaders, and families in a festive display of Syrian heritage.

During the celebration, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak emphasized the deep historical roots and mutual respect underpinning the relations between the UAE and Syria, highlighting sincere brotherhood and positive coexistence, as stated by the UAE Government Media Office. He affirmed the UAE's commitment, under President Sheikh Mohamed, to supporting initiatives that foster Syria's advancement and promote security, peace, and stability across its regions. Sheikh Nahyan also commended the Syrian community's significant contributions to the UAE's development, characterizing its members as an exemplary model of generosity and achievement.

The festival's program included engaging panel discussions and a variety of community and family activities. Attendees had the opportunity to explore an exhibition detailing Syria's rich history and culture, alongside an interactive photo zone showcasing iconic scenes from cities such as Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Latakia, Tartus, and Daraa. The vibrant atmosphere celebrated the richness and diversity of Syrian culture.

Further enhancing the cultural experience, the festival hosted 30 stalls for Syrian home businesses and 40 restaurants and kiosks offering authentic Syrian culinary delights. A segment of the event was dedicated to honoring a group of distinguished Syrian achievers in the UAE for their impactful contributions across fields like art, media, medicine, business, and design. Among those recognized were actors Mona Wassef, Jamal Suleiman, and Abed Fahd; Dr Ghassan Altawil, a consultant ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon; and Mai Alghajari, President of the Syrian Emirati Council for Entrepreneurs. Prominent Syrian figures and business leaders from the UAE community also participated in the celebration. Additionally, Dr Mohammad Issam Mahou, a researcher in history and civilisation, and Engineer Maher Mouhajer, founder and chief executive of Mouhajer International Design and Contracting, were among the honorees. Sheikh Nahyan fondly referred to Syria as a land of ancient civilization, citing the enduring landmark of Palmyra.