Nahyan Bin Mubarak Attends Major Celebration Of Iraqi Community Heritage At Expo Dubai
A significant celebration took place at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Iraqi community. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended alongside Dr. Muzafar Mustafa Al Jabouri, Iraq's Ambassador to the UAE. The event drew over 15,000 attendees, mostly from the Iraqi community.
Organised by "UAE Loves Iraq," this gathering allowed diverse cultures to explore Iraq's unique history and traditions. It underscored the strong cultural and historical ties between the UAE and Iraq, celebrating their vibrant communities and long-standing friendship. Sheikh Nahyan praised Iraq's cultural contributions to human civilisation.
Sheikh Nahyan emphasised that under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership, culture and heritage are vital for national identity. He stated, "Our aim is for the Arab nation to remain a source of strength, pride, and positive development in the region and the world." The UAE leadership values Arab nations' history and achievements.
The event featured traditional music, folk dances, art exhibitions, and a space for traditional cuisine. These activities showcased Iraq’s diverse cultural heritage and talents within the UAE. The Dubai Exhibition Centre provided advanced facilities ensuring easy access and a festive atmosphere for families.
Sheikh Nahyan invited Iraqi community members to join the "Our Life in the UAE" writing competition. Organised by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence with the National Fund, it celebrates the Year of the Community by encouraging residents to express their connection to the UAE through writing.
Honouring Contributions
Several distinguished Iraqi community members were honoured for their contributions across various fields. Among them were Dr. Ahmed Al-Kubaisi, Dr. Muthanna Abdul Razzaq Al Jabouri, Professor Ali Jaafar Al Alak, Dr. Reem Tarek Al Mutawalli, Dr. Moayad Al-Shaybani, Dr. Jamal Saleh Hassan, Engineer Sinan Al-Ousi, Dr. Humaid Majoul Al Nuaimi, Ruqayya Hassan, Dr. Suham Jargis, and posthumously Kareem Al-Iraqi.
The UAE is home to a large Iraqi community who actively contribute to its development. This relationship is built on shared language and culture with productive cooperation in economic sectors. The UAE ranks as one of Iraq’s leading trading partners.
In May 2023, over 170 companies participated in the UAE-Iraq Business Forum in Dubai with more than 250 bilateral meetings across multiple sectors. In early 2024, non-oil exports from UAE to Iraq nearly quadrupled compared to 2023's first half with a 41% increase.
The celebration highlighted UAE’s commitment to fostering coexistence globally by participating in cultural celebrations worldwide. This reflects its role as a model society rooted in collaboration within a secure environment while supporting Iraq’s progress towards national aspirations through successful partnerships.
Sheikh Nahyan commended the Iraqi community for their significant contributions to UAE’s development while highlighting its unique model of tolerance and coexistence for all residents on its land.
With inputs from WAM

