Emirates Loves Syria Festival Draws 55,000 Attendees in Dubai
The second edition of the cultural event celebrated Syrian heritage and bilateral ties.
1Massive Cultural Celebration
Over 55,000 people gathered at Dubai's Zabeel Park on Saturday for the second Emirates Loves Syria festival. The event served as a vibrant showcase of Syrian heritage, featuring music, traditional food, and historical exhibitions. Attendees included prominent business leaders, families, and members of the Syrian community residing within the United Arab Emirates.
2High-Level Diplomatic Presence
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended the event to emphasize the deep-rooted historical ties between the two nations. Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara addressed the community via a televised broadcast. These appearances underscored the ongoing diplomatic commitment to fostering positive coexistence and brotherhood between the UAE and Syria.
3Showcasing Syrian Artistic Heritage
The festival featured a headline performance by renowned Syrian singer Assala Nasri, drawing significant crowd engagement. Visitors explored an interactive photo zone depicting iconic scenes from major cities including Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Hama. This immersive experience highlighted Syria's status as a land of ancient civilization, specifically referencing the enduring landmark of Palmyra.
4Economic and Community Engagement
The event provided a platform for local commerce, hosting 30 stalls dedicated to Syrian home businesses. Additionally, 40 restaurants and kiosks offered authentic Syrian cuisine to the thousands of festival-goers. These activities facilitated direct interaction between the community and Syrian entrepreneurs, reinforcing the cultural and economic bonds present within the UAE.
5Honoring Distinguished Syrian Achievers
Several prominent Syrians were recognized for their professional contributions in fields such as art, media, medicine, and business. Honorees included actors Mona Wassef, Jamal Suleiman, and Abed Fahd. The ceremony also celebrated professionals like Dr. Ghassan Altawil and entrepreneur Mai Alghajari, highlighting the community's active role in the development of the UAE.
6Professional and Academic Recognition
The awards extended to various sectors, honoring Dr. Mohammad Issam Mahou, a researcher in history and civilization, and Engineer Maher Mouhajer, founder of Mouhajer International Design and Contracting. By recognizing these individuals, the festival emphasized the diverse expertise and achievements of the Syrian diaspora currently contributing to the UAE's professional landscape.
7Official Support for Stability
Sheikh Nahyan affirmed that the UAE, under President Sheikh Mohamed, remains committed to initiatives that advance Syria. He expressed support for efforts aimed at bringing security, peace, and stability to all Syrian regions. This political messaging framed the cultural celebration as part of a broader commitment to regional cooperation and mutual prosperity.
8Impact of Cultural Diplomacy
The festival successfully blended entertainment with diplomatic messaging, reinforcing the Syrian community's status as a model of achievement in the UAE. By integrating panel discussions with public festivities, the event strengthened social ties. This gathering serves as a clear indicator of the importance placed on cultural exchange in modern bilateral relations.
Original article: The National — Emirates Loves Syria Festival Draws 55,000 Attendees in Dubai