Nahyan Bin Mubarak Launches 7th National Festival Of Tolerance And Coexistence In Abu Dhabi

The 7th National Festival of Tolerance & Coexistence has commenced at Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the event under the theme "Hand In Hand." The festival, organised by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, will run until 18th November 2025.

Sheikh Nahyan praised President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for fostering a society rooted in peace and human values. He stated, "We are grateful for His Highness’s leadership and guidance and we express this gratitude by ensuring that this festival becomes a vivid embodiment of tolerance, coexistence and human fraternity, transforming these principles into a joyful and collaborative reality."

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The opening ceremony featured diverse performances, including "Zayed’s Tree" by the Community Voices of Tolerance Choir. This group comprises members from over 39 nationalities. A documentary titled "Hand in Hand" was also showcased to align with the UAE Year of Community. The event saw participation from senior officials, ambassadors, including China's Ambassador Zhang Yiming, intellectuals, and creators from across the UAE.

China was honoured as this year's Guest of Honour. Zhang Yiming expressed gratitude for the UAE's support. He remarked on the festival's role in promoting global cooperation and embracing diverse cultures. "It’s our pleasure for the Chinese Embassy in the UAE to be the Guest of Honour at the seventh National Festival of Tolerance and Coexistence," he said.

Sheikh Nahyan highlighted Umm Al Emarat Park as an ideal venue for the festival. He noted its significance as a place where families gather and cultures meet under one sky. He emphasised that progress stems from collective action rather than individual efforts.

The park's growth would have pleased Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who cherished nature. On its 10th anniversary, Sheikh Nahyan honoured H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her leadership and contributions to human development.

Celebrating Diversity Through Art

The festival included cultural showcases such as The Charm of China troupe's performance, a Kung Fu demonstration from China, traditional Thai dances, a Palestinian dabke, and a rendition by America’s Got Talent star Peter Rosalita. Students from GEMS Cambridge International School presented "Pulse of Tolerance in Our Community."

Sheikh Nahyan mentioned last year's establishment of the Garden of Tolerance within Umm Al Emarat Park. This garden symbolises diversity with flowers from all continents growing together. This year saw new additions from China to honour their friendship.

A Vision for Global Cooperation

Sheikh Nahyan stressed that during the UAE Year of Community, the festival aims to make "Hand in Hand" a tangible reality reflecting UAE's spirit. He stated that regardless of beliefs or backgrounds, progress is achieved through unity.

Zhang Yiming shared that over 300,000 overseas Chinese consider UAE their second home due to its inclusiveness. "Where my heart finds peace, it is my home," he quoted Su Shi to describe their sentiment towards UAE.

Upcoming Events: Tolerance Walk

The festival will feature an annual Tolerance Walk on 16th November to mark International Day for Tolerance. Participants will include families, students, and attendees from Abu Dhabi 2026 Masters Games walking together in celebration.

Zhang Yiming expressed appreciation for UAE's hospitality towards Chinese communities. He highlighted cultural exchanges planned during the festival to showcase Eastern culture's charm while strengthening ties between China and UAE.

Sheikh Nahyan concluded by inviting everyone to enjoy music, arts, dialogue at this festival celebrating unity and shared humanity within UAE's vibrant future.

With inputs from WAM