Sheikh Nahyan Champions Tolerance Walk in UAE

Post by : Mara Rahim

The UAE has once again emphasized its dedication to unity and peaceful coexistence through the significant “Tolerance Walk to Mars.” This event was led by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and saw the participation of approximately 3,000 individuals from various communities throughout the nation, exemplifying values of acceptance, respect, and harmony.

Hosted at Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi, the event was organized in collaboration with the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026. This walk formed part of the ongoing National Festival of Tolerance, now in its third day, aimed at fostering togetherness and underscoring the significance of kindness within the UAE’s diverse societal landscape.

Sheikh Nahyan was joined by several esteemed guests, including Zhang Yiming, the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China, who serves as this year's “Guest of Honour” at the festival. Other notable attendees included Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, the UAE Rugby Federation President, and Afra Al Sabri, Director-General of the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence.

The presence of numerous prominent figures, such as federal and local officials, religious leaders, and representatives from various sectors, emphasized the extensive reach of the tolerance message across all facets of life in the UAE.

During the event, meaningful moments occurred, such as when Sheikh Nahyan planted a special tree from China, while Zhang Yiming planted a Ghaf tree, the national tree of the UAE. These trees were positioned in the Garden of Tolerance, symbolizing friendship between the two nations. The ceremony also welcomed Carolin Konther López, Paraguay's Ambassador to the UAE.

A highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Sheikh Nahyan and the Chinese Ambassador, marking the 10th anniversary of Umm Al Emarat Park, a venue dedicated to promoting peace and unity.

In his remarks, Sheikh Nahyan emphasized that the Tolerance Walk embodies the commitment of UAE residents to the principles of acceptance and peaceful coexistence, expressing delight at the crowd's enthusiastic participation, which he described as a “symphony in all languages and colors.”

He commended the Abu Dhabi 2026 Masters Games for promoting sports and health and highlighted the event's inclusivity, showcasing the true essence of tolerance.

Sheikh Nahyan also acknowledged the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's founding father, whose values of tolerance and understanding continue to shape the nation.

The Tolerance Walk to Mars concluded with a powerful message: the UAE stands as a model for peaceful coexistence, where diversity is respected and unity is embraced—tolerance here is not merely a concept, but a fundamental way of life.