Minister of Tolerance celebrates Iraq’s civilisational heritage at UAE Loves Iraq festival
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan joins over 15,000 guests at the second edition of UAE Loves Iraq, honouring the nation's ancient legacy and the distinguished contributions of Iraq's community within the Emirates
The second edition of UAE Loves Iraq unfolded as a resplendent celebration of Mesopotamian civilisation and cultural heritage, drawing together more than 15,000 attendees from across the Emirates at the Dubai Exhibition Centre within Expo City Dubai. The occasion brought together Iraqi residents, Emiratis and members of diverse communities in a festive gathering that embodied the values of coexistence and mutual appreciation that define the nation.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, graced the event as a distinguished guest, describing the evening as a genuine expression of affection between the peoples of Iraq and the United Arab Emirates. The Minister emphasised that the UAE stands as a beacon of coexistence and human fraternity, welcoming brothers and friends who contribute meaningfully to the nation’s continued growth and development.
In his remarks, Sheikh Nahyan reflected upon Iraq’s profound historical significance as the cradle of human civilisation, home to the world’s earliest written traditions, the magnificent Ishtar Gate, the Code of Hammurabi and the legendary Epic of Gilgamesh. He celebrated Iraq’s enduring legacy as a historic centre of learning that has inspired scholars and students throughout the region, whilst recalling the tribute paid to Abu Dhabi by the celebrated Iraqi poet Mohammed Mahdi Al Jawahiri.
The evening’s programme proved a vibrant showcase of Iraqi artistry and cultural richness, featuring performances by renowned artists Rahma Riad and Mahmoud Al Turki, alongside appearances by celebrated content creators including Loay Sahi, Mina Al Shaikhly and Zainab Al Oqabi. The festivities created an atmosphere of warmth and celebration that illuminated the diversity and vitality of Iraqi traditions.
The event accorded special recognition to ten distinguished members of the Iraqi community whose achievements have substantially enriched life within the Emirates. Amongst those honoured were leading figures in veterinary medicine, sports law, architecture, nuclear medicine and dermatology, alongside accomplished educators, historians, musicians and business leaders, each exemplifying the profound contributions that Iraq’s community brings to the nation’s cultural, intellectual and economic fabric.
Visitors traversed meticulously crafted interactive spaces that evoked Iraq’s most treasured landmarks, including an evocative recreation of the Ishtar Gate, an immersive experience inspired by Baghdad’s famed Al Mutanabbi Street and an architectural model of the Malwiya Minaret of Samarra. Dedicated zones brought to life the distinctive characters of Baghdad, Basra, Nineveh, Babylon, Najaf, Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, whilst an art exhibition, family activities and authentic Iraqi cuisine completed an immersive cultural experience.
Organised by the UAE Loves Iraq platform and attended by Samer Salman Abed, Acting Consul General of the Republic of Iraq in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, alongside diplomats and prominent figures from business, social and cultural sectors, the event reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to honouring the rich cultures of communities within its borders and to cultivating the enduring historical, cultural and fraternal bonds between the Emirates and the Republic of Iraq.
Source: WAM