Over 60K attended Dubai's celebration marking Pakistan's Independence Day at Expo City Dubai with cultural shows highlighting UAE-Pakistan ties.

Dubai marked the 78th anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence Day with a significant gathering at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. The event, which drew over 60,000 attendees, featured cultural performances and community honors while underscoring efforts to bolster UAE-Pakistan relations.

The celebration was held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE, diplomats, officials, business leaders, and members of the Pakistani community were also in attendance.

Organised by "Emirates Loves Pakistan," in collaboration with the Pakistan Association Dubai and supported by Dubai Police, the event highlighted deep diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.

Dubai Celebrates Pakistan

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan expressed his honor in commemorating Pakistan’s Independence Day. He extended congratulations to all present and acknowledged what this day means for Pakistanis around the globe-celebrating national identity, resilience, determination, achievement, and future optimism.

He remarked on the strong bonds between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates: “Our steadfast relationship is founded on shared values, cultural heritage, mutual respect, and a collective vision for peace and prosperity.”

The minister emphasized that these connections are strengthened daily by contributions from the Pakistani community whose talent enriches UAE society. He highlighted this partnership as an example of fraternal bonds crucial for global social and economic prosperity.

A national writing competition titled "What the UAE Means to Me" was announced by Sheikh Nahyan. Organised by Watani Al Emarat Foundation and his ministry, it invites citizens and residents to submit stories or essays in Arabic or English.

A ceremony during the event recognized prominent individuals from various fields for their exceptional contributions:

  • Bashir Ahmed & Masood Haider Afridi – Founders of Afridi & Angell law firm
  • Abdul Salam & Shahida Salam – Founders of Pristine Private School
  • Khan Zaman – Founder of Ibrahimi Palace Restaurant
  • Muhammad Habib – Founder of Habib Bank AG Zurich
  • Sana Mir – Former Pakistan cricket captain; first woman inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Dr. Faisel Ikram announced a AED45 million expansion plan for the Pakistan Medical Centre (PMC), aiming to triple service capacity with enhanced diagnostic facilities. Since opening in 2020, PMC has treated over 140,000 patients from more than 100 countries.

The UAE-Pakistan diplomatic relations were established in 1971 by late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Their robust ties extend across economy sectors such as telecommunications and tourism. In June 2025 they launched a strategic partnership aimed at exchanging best practices globally according Akhbrna News report observations within region initiatives.