Pakistanis in the UAE recently celebrated their Independence Day with added fervor, thanks to javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem’s historic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, saw a massive turnout and was filled with cultural and musical performances.
Key Takeaways
- Arshad Nadeem won Pakistan’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics.
- The Independence Day event in Dubai attracted around 10,000 attendees.
- The celebration included cultural performances, musical shows, and traditional activities.
- The event was organized by the “Emirates Loves Pakistan” page in collaboration with the Pakistan Association Dubai, Dubai Police, and Dubai World Trade Centre.
A Historic Win
Javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem’s historic achievement at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he secured Pakistan’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics, has become a monumental moment not just for sports in the South-Asian country but also for its national pride for Pakistanis in the UAE. The 27-year-old’s triumph resonated deeply with the spirit of the Pakistan Independence Day celebrations in the UAE, serving as a reminder of the nation’s potential on the global stage.
Independence Day Celebrations
This victory was particularly symbolic as it coincided with Independence Day celebrations on August 11, ahead of the actual day on August 14. The event, held in Dubai at the World Trade Centre, attracted around 10,000 people who witnessed a 12-hour long cultural and musical extravaganza. Different groups extended heartfelt congratulations to the javelin thrower who won gold.
Community Reactions
Pakistani Riders Group
Mirza Khud, Founder of Pakistani Riders Group (PRG), who was present at the venue with 52 bikers, said, “The 27-year-old has brought immense pride to our country. This achievement is being celebrated worldwide. Winning a gold medal at the Olympics is a historic accomplishment that enhances our nation’s standing. It feels like a breath of fresh air for every Pakistani.”
The Bikers group that rides every weekend not only explores locations within the UAE but also travels to destinations such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar on their Honda Gold Wings, Harley-Davidsons, and other sports bikes.
Cultural Extravaganza
The vibrant program included cultural performances, musical shows, and traditional activities that showcased the rich heritage and contributions of the Pakistani community to the UAE’s development. The event was organized by the “Emirates Loves Pakistan” page in collaboration with the Pakistan Association Dubai, Dubai Police, and Dubai World Trade Centre.
Several expats from Sharjah started their commute early to mark the biggest ever Pakistani Independence celebrations in Dubai. Mudassar Nasir Abbassi, a UAE expat for ten years, said, “I have come with a group of 12 people. This includes my family and friends. I have been up since early morning. This event is being held for the first time on such a big scale. I woke my daughters up at 7.30am and we got ready to start from Sharjah soon after.”
A Day of Unity
The event was also graced by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, along with diplomats and prominent figures from the Pakistani community. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan Ambassador to the UAE, with Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, along with other officials, attended the celebrations.
Addressing the attendees, Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to UAE, emphasized the resilience and determination of the Pakistani people. He also mentioned Nadeem’s achievements, as well as the lasting bond and mutual respect between UAE and Pakistan.
Muhammad noted the day’s celebration also highlighted the enduring friendship and deep-rooted ties between the UAE and Pakistan. He added, “Pakistan and the UAE enjoy close, friendly relations. These relations are rooted in history and bonded together by common social values, traditions, and faith.”
He stressed that this tradition of friendship has not only continued but has been strengthened by successors on both sides. “The leadership of our two countries enjoy each other’s trust, and confidence, and there is a strong desire to further expand political, trade, and economic relations. We are confident that Pakistan’s special relationship with the UAE will continue to grow. This day also gives us the opportunity for introspection.”
"On this occasion, I urge the Pakistani community to work wholeheartedly for building a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan, as well as contribute positively to the vibrant and diverse society of the UAE,” added Muhammad.
