Syrian President Addresses Community at Emirates Loves Syria Celebration in Dubai

Ahmad Al Sharaa joined over 55,000 people at Zabeel Park as Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak affirmed the UAE's unwavering support for Syria and praised the Syrian community's contributions to the Emirates

The festive grounds of Zabeel Park resonated with the voices and stories of a community celebrating its heritage. Over 55,000 people gathered at Emirates Loves Syria, a celebration now in its second year, as Ahmad Al Sharaa, President of the Syrian Arab Republic, delivered a televised address to members of the Syrian community in the UAE, honouring their cultural and civilisational legacy.

The occasion brought together prominent Syrian figures, business leaders and families in an atmosphere that wove together the threads of shared history and mutual respect. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended the celebration and spoke to the deep bonds connecting the two nations. Relations between the UAE and Syria, he reflected, are rooted in history and constantly renewed, built on mutual respect, sincere brotherhood and positive coexistence.

Sheikh Nahyan affirmed the UAE’s support for every effort and initiative that advances Syria and brings security, peace and stability to all its regions. He praised the Syrian community as a distinguished model of giving and achievement, describing its members as an active bridge that deepens understanding and cooperation between the two peoples. Syria itself he characterised as a land of ancient civilisation and lasting contribution to humanity, invoking Palmyra among its enduring landmarks.

The celebration reflected values central to UAE society. As the UAE and Syrian presidents have discussed strengthening bilateral ties, so too did the festival embody this commitment through cultural exchange and shared appreciation. The programme featured panel discussions and community activities, whilst Syrian singer Assala Nasri delivered a headline performance. Content creators participated as event ambassadors, reaching audiences beyond the park itself.

Visitors explored an open exhibition documenting Syria’s history and culture, and an interactive photo zone that recreated the distinctive character of Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Latakia, Tartus and Daraa. Thirty stalls offered Syrian home businesses the opportunity to connect with visitors, whilst forty restaurants and kiosks served authentic Syrian cuisine, each dish carrying the flavour of home.

The celebration honoured Syrian achievers in the UAE whose contributions have enriched the Emirates across multiple disciplines. Among those recognised were actors Mona Wassef, Jamal Suleiman and Abed Fahd; Dr Ghassan Altawil, consultant ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon; Mai Alghajari, President of the Syrian Emirati Council for Entrepreneurs; Dr Mohammad Issam Mahou, researcher in history and civilisation; and Engineer Maher Mouhajer, Founder and CEO of Mouhajer International Design and Contracting. Each represents the depth of Syrian talent and dedication woven into the fabric of UAE society.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

The celebration underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering coexistence and cultural openness as defining values. By honouring Syrian heritage and the contributions of the Syrian community, the Emirates reinforces its role as a place where diverse cultures flourish and thrive together, sending a message to the world about the possibilities of genuine cooperation among peoples.

As Dubai celebrates Syrian heritage through community events, Abu Dhabi benefits from the same spirit of cultural exchange and mutual enrichment. The strengthening of UAE-Syrian relations, marked by high-level diplomatic engagement and community celebration, contributes to broader regional stability and prosperity that benefits all emirates and their residents.

Source: WAM