UAE Hosts Major Indian Cultural Celebration in Dubai

Post by : Saif Nasser

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is gearing up for a significant cultural celebration to highlight the traditions of the Indian community and their enduring friendship with the nation. Scheduled for Sunday, October 26, at Zabeel Park in Dubai, the event is anticipated to attract over 70,000 attendees from various backgrounds.

This celebration, now in its second edition, focuses on reinforcing the strong ties between the UAE and India through culture, community, and unity. It will also showcase the important role that the Indian population plays in the UAE’s social and economic fabric.

Organized under the “Emirates Loves India” initiative, the program aims to bolster cultural discourse and camaraderie between the two nations. Attendees can look forward to vibrant live performances, traditional Indian music and dance, as well as family-friendly activities. Moreover, an array of food stalls will present a diverse selection of Indian culinary delights, representing the rich tapestry of the country’s flavors and regions.

High-profile Guests and Cultural Solidarity
The event will be graced by UAE Minister of State Noura Al Kaabi and A. Amarnath, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. They will be joined by diplomats, business leaders, and representatives from both Emirati and Indian communities.

In her remarks, Minister Al Kaabi emphasized that such cultural exchange events exemplify the deep-rooted friendship between the UAE and India. She expressed that both countries share values of “mutual respect, cultural appreciation, and a vision for progress and peace.”

Indian community leader A. Amarnath acknowledged that the UAE has long been a “second home” for countless Indians, expressing gratitude towards the UAE leadership for their unwavering support and encouragement of cultural harmony.

A Decades-long Partnership
The relationship between the UAE and India has steadily strengthened over the years, beginning with the Cultural Agreement signed in January 1975, which laid the groundwork for consistent cultural and educational exchanges.

In 2017, a pivotal milestone was reached with the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement, enhancing collaboration in trade, culture, technology, and education.

The following year, the bond became even more robust with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aimed at fostering trade and investment, with a goal of increasing non-oil trade to $100 billion by 2030.

Since its implementation in May 2022, CEPA has produced promising outcomes, with non-oil trade between the UAE and India hitting $37.6 billion in the first half of 2025, reflecting a 33.9% growth from the previous year. This upward trajectory illustrates the mutual benefits derived from their close partnership.

Cultural Event with Economic Significance
While serving as a celebration of art, culture, and friendship, this event also symbolizes the economic robustness and trust that the two nations share. With over 3.5 million Indians residing in the UAE, it boasts one of the largest Indian diasporas globally. Indians significantly contribute to multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, business, and technology.

The “Emirates Loves India” celebration at Zabeel Park promises not just to entertain families, but also to reinforce the idea that cultural connections can fortify diplomatic and economic relationships.

As both nations strive for peace, prosperity, and advancement, this event will stand as a powerful testament to the unity and mutual respect between the UAE and India.