Thousands turn out to celebrate UAE’s Indian community

Huge Zabeel Park event marks cultural ties between nations

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  Thousands have descended on Zabeel Park in Dubai to celebrate the country’s Indian community. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National

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  The event showcased Indian culture, art and folklore, with live music, dance and exhibitions for people of all ages to enjoy

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  It was the second such celebration held in the Emirates

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  It was organised by the Emirates Loves India initiative

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  Traditional products from Indian towns and villages were on display

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  Food stalls were offering authentic Indian cuisine

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  The celebration came after Diwali was marked with jubilant celebration across the Emirates by the Indian diaspora

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  The first cultural agreement between the UAE and India was signed in January 1975

Thousands descended on Zabeel Park in Dubai on Sunday to celebrate the country’s Indian community.

The event showcased Indian culture, art and folklore, with live music, dance and exhibitions for people of all ages to enjoy. It was the second such celebration held in the Emirates.

It was organised by the Emirates Loves India initiative, with a special segment to honour distinguished community figures. Traditional products from Indian towns and villages were on display alongside food stalls offering authentic Indian cuisine.

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The celebration came after Diwali was marked with jubilant celebration across the Emirates. This year, celebrations began on October 18 with Dhanteras, while the main Diwali festivities fell on October 20.

The event saw the celebration of UAE-India relations. Antonie Robertson / The National

UAE leaders also extended greetings to people around the world celebrating Diwali, led by President Sheikh Mohamed, who posted a message on X.

"Best wishes to all those celebrating Diwali in the UAE and around the world. May the coming year bring peace, health and prosperity to you and your loved ones," Sheikh Mohamed said.

Also offering his regards to those celebrating the Hindu festival of lights was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. "Warmest wishes and greetings to those celebrating Diwali in the UAE and around the world," Sheikh Mohammed said.

"May this festival of lights bring peace, safety and prosperity to you and your loved ones. Happy Diwali!"

Celebrations took place across the UAE, with the landmark Baps Hindu Mandir temple in Abu Dhabi receiving thousands of Diwali visitors from early on Monday morning. Worshippers also flocked to the popular Hindu temple in the Jebel Ali, Dubai.

The first cultural agreement between the UAE and India was signed in January 1975, while a comprehensive strategic partnership was signed in 2017 and came into effect in 2022.