The Indian community in the United Arab Emirates celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day with enthusiasm and patriotic fervor across multiple venues in the country. Flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and official addresses marked the occasion at the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General in Dubai, and various community centers throughout the Emirates.
In Abu Dhabi, Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir led the celebrations by raising the Indian flag at the Embassy. In his address, he highlighted India’s remarkable progress and its strengthening ties with the UAE. Ambassador Sudhir emphasized India’s economic achievements, including its position as the world’s 5th largest economy, and its advancements in technology and space exploration.
He also noted the unprecedented frequency of high-level visits between Indian and UAE leaders, underscoring the deepening bilateral relationship.
At the Consulate General in Dubai, Consul General Satish Kumar Sivan presided over the festivities, which included a flag-hoisting ceremony and cultural performances. He acknowledged the UAE’s support for its large Indian community and emphasized India’s global rise across various fields.
Particular attention was given to the contributions of Indians in the UAE, who have played a significant role in the country’s development since before its unification in 1971. The Consul General stressed that India’s growing international influence stems from achievements both at home and abroad, underlining the nation’s progress as a thriving democracy despite early challenges.
The heads of the missions praised the 3.5 million-strong Indian community in the UAE for their significant contributions to both countries. They highlighted the community’s role in various sectors, including business, education, and healthcare.
The officials also expressed gratitude to the UAE government for its continued support of the Indian expatriate community. Special mention was made of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, described as a symbol of shared values and tolerance between the two nations.
The diplomats reaffirmed the Indian mission’s commitment to serving the needs of the expatriate community and stressed India’s growing international influence, attributing it to achievements both at home and abroad.
The celebrations brought together Indians from all walks of life, allowing them to honor their shared heritage while showcasing their dedication to India’s progress.
As the largest expatriate group in the UAE, the Indian community’s enthusiastic participation in these Independence Day festivities underscored the strong bonds between the two countries and the vibrant presence of Indian culture in the Emirates.
By – Vinod Kumar (Dubai)