60,000 People Celebrate Diwali at Dubai’s Zabeel Park with Cultural Festivities

60,000 people gather at Dubai’s Zabeel Park to celebrate Diwali

Dubai: 60,000 residents celebrated Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, with performances, speeches, food and folklore at Dubai’s Zabeel Park on Saturday night.

Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan and Ambassador of India to the UAE Sunjay Sudhir were part of the celebration titled ‘Khar Jaisi Diwali’ along with diplomats and prominent figures from the foreign community.

Organized by Emirates Loves India, the event was supported by the UAE Government Media Office and saw the participation of Dubai Police.

The famous park became a grand platform celebrating Indian culture, music, art, food and folklore, set against the backdrop of the iconic Dubai skyline. The programs began with students singing the national anthems of the UAE and India live.

‘Best Friendship’
In his speech, Sheikh Nahyan emphasized that the UAE considers India a “friend and a reliable partner”.

“The UAE is a society that deeply respects the cultural heritage of people everywhere. This evening, we not only celebrate Diwali but also rejoice in the special friendship and trust between India and the UAE,” Sheikh Nahyan said.

He described Diwali as “the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, goodness over evil, and peace over conflict, as well as an occasion for spiritual renewal and goodness across the world.”

“Diwali gives us an opportunity to highlight our collective commitment to human unity and good work,” he added.