Dubai Celebrates Iraqi Heritage: A Vibrant Fusion of Culture and Community

Expo City Dubai buzzed with energy on Saturday as hundreds of members of the Iraqi community in the UAE gathered to celebrate their rich heritage and the strong bonds between their homeland and the Emirates. The second annual 'UAE Loves Iraq' event fostered a vibrant atmosphere, uniting Iraqi families and Emirati guests in a joyous occasion dedicated to Iraqi culture. Attendees were treated to traditional music, authentic cuisine, and captivating displays inspired by Iraq's most iconic landmarks.

Held at the conference centre within Expo City Dubai, the event aimed to deepen cultural understanding between the two nations. It also provided Iraqi residents with a valuable opportunity to reconnect with their roots and celebrate their shared identity. The festivities included families adorned in traditional Iraqi attire enjoying folk performances and culinary delights, while many used the gathering as a chance to reunite with friends and fellow community members.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, graced the event with his presence and lauded the significant contributions of Iraqi residents to the fabric of life in the Emirates. "This celebration for the Iraqi community in the UAE expresses their love for the UAE and the love of the UAE for Iraq," he stated. "In the UAE, we are proud of the Iraqis living among us. We work to strengthen the bridges of love between the two nations." Sheikh Nahyan further emphasized Iraq's profound cultural legacy and its historical impact on human civilization, highlighting the country as the origin of pivotal human innovations. "The first wheel and the first letters were invented in Iraq. It is the place that witnessed the birth of civilisation. Iraq will always be a beacon of glory," he remarked. "Iraq is working towards peace and prosperity, and the UAE is committed to supporting Iraq's progress. The UAE loves Iraq."

A Home Away From Home

For many Iraqi expatriates, the celebration served as a moment of reflection on the fulfilling lives they have established in the Emirates while nurturing a deep connection to their homeland. Mohammed Al Tawaiji, a 48-year-old who has resided in the UAE for two decades, shared his experience of feeling welcomed from the outset. "I never felt that I was a stranger here. My soul is Iraqi and my heart is Emirati," he told The National. "I'm proud to be part of this country and to have witnessed its major development." He attributed his smooth integration into life in the UAE to the cultural parallels between Iraqis and Emiratis. "Iraqis and Emiratis both care about educating their younger generations and know how to live alongside people of other nationalities. There are a lot of similarities between the two nations, and that's why I never felt like a stranger here."

Dr. Afnan Al Rawi, an Iraqi physician who has lived in Dubai for 17 years, echoed these sentiments, noting the shared traditions and values between the two communities. "We have similar traditions, and the most important thing is that we love each other," she said. "Emiratis understand our accent well, and gatherings like this bring nations closer together and spread positivity." For the younger generation of Iraqis who have grown up in the Emirates, the event offered a unique opportunity to explore and embrace their Iraqi identity. Ali Mohammed, a 22-year-old student at Emirates Aviation, born and raised in the UAE, considers it his home. "The UAE is definitely home for me. It is a great place to live, study and work," he affirmed. "I never felt like a stranger here, and this event is great because I can reunite with my fellow Iraqis."

Keeping Traditions Alive

For some attendees, the event presented a rare chance to connect with fellow Iraqis and immerse themselves in cherished traditions. Afraa Al Rubaie, who departed Iraq many years ago and has resided in Dubai for 25 years, emphasized the significance of such gatherings for individuals who have spent a substantial part of their lives away from their native country. "It's hard to meet other Iraqis at work or in our residential areas, so this event is a chance to come together and enjoy our food, music and rich culture," she explained. "Thanks to the UAE for giving us the opportunity to feel like we are in Iraq." She further noted that the hospitality she has experienced in the Emirates evokes memories of home. "Iraqis and Emiratis share the same hospitality and generosity. Here, we don't feel far away from our homeland because Emiratis always welcome us with a smile."

The celebration also drew the participation of Emiratis with personal ties to Iraq. Ibrahim Ali Binhatem, an Emirati writer, recounted how his fascination with Iraqi history and culture began in his youth. His affection for the country deepened over time, leading him to marry an Iraqi woman and name their daughter Baghdad, in honor of the Iraqi capital. "I have many Iraqi friends here in the UAE, and I've always loved the history and culture of Iraq," he shared. "I used to read about Iraq and became fascinated by the traditions of Baghdad. I even named my daughter Baghdad." He expressed his attendance at the celebration as a way to share in the community's pride in its heritage. "I came here to take part in this beautiful gathering with Iraqis. They are wonderful people with an incredibly rich history." The event also featured a performance by oud master Naseer Shamma with the UAE National Orchestra.