UAE-India friendship was formalised with a Cultural Agreement in January 1975/ Image Courtesy: The National
Dubai is lighting up with Indian culture as the “Emirates Loves India” event unfolds at Zabeel Park on 26th October 2025. Organised for the second consecutive year, this celebration highlights the deep-rooted friendship and cultural ties between the UAE and India. The event, expected to draw over 70,000 attendees, is a vivid showcase of India’s rich artistic legacy and the remarkable contributions of the Indian community, which numbers around 4.36 million residents, roughly 35 percent of the UAE’s population, as of 2024. Hosted in the presence of Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State, and A. Amarnath, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy, the event brings together diplomats, business leaders, and prominent community members, reflecting the UAE’s high regard for Indian expatriates and their role in the nation’s economic, social, and cultural life.
Celebrating India’s heritage and artistic legacy
The theme of the event, “Ghar Jaisi Diwali”, extends Diwali festivities beyond the traditional date, giving Dubai’s Indian community and residents a platform to experience India’s cultural richness. The programme is designed to be immersive and family-friendly, combining traditional art, music, dance, and cuisine with interactive experiences:
- Star Performances: Popular Indian artists Neha Kakkar, Mika Singh, and Neeraj Madhav bring Bollywood energy to the stage, alongside sarangi virtuoso Nabeel Khan.
- Cultural Parade: The Indian Performing Arts Foundation (IPF) presents a vibrant parade celebrating India’s diversity.
- Food Stalls: Over 30 stalls offer authentic cuisines from various Indian states.
- Cultural Exhibitions: Themed stalls showcase handicrafts, traditional products, and artwork, offering insight into India’s local crafts and artistic heritage.
- Kids’ Zone: A dedicated area ensures engaging experiences for families and children.
- Special Segment: Distinguished members of the Indian community are honoured for their exceptional achievements in the UAE.
- Influencer Meet: Indian content creators gather for panel discussions and networking before the main event, reinforcing shared cultural values.
Scheduled from 2 PM to late evening, Zabeel Park provides ample space and parking facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for families and visitors.
Strengthening bilateral ties
The event is not just a cultural celebration but a reflection of the long-standing partnership between India and the UAE, formalised through a Cultural Agreement in 1975 and reinforced with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2017. In 2022, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) further strengthened trade and investment relations. Non-oil bilateral trade reached USD 37.6 billion in the first half of 2025, a 33.9 percent increase over the same period in 2024, with both countries targeting USD 100 billion by 2030. By celebrating the Indian community on such a large scale, the UAE continues to foster tolerance, coexistence, and cultural pluralism, offering a global model for multicultural harmony and collaboration.
Emirates Loves initiative
Emirates Loves, a Dubai-based media and community platform, is behind the event. It celebrates diverse residents and cultures through large-scale public events and storytelling platforms, in partnership with the UAE Government Media Office. In 2025, the initiative has also hosted events for Iraq, the Philippines, and China, among others, each featuring dedicated local gatherings and social media engagement. Through its flagship event in Dubai, Emirates Loves India underscores the vital role of the Indian community in the UAE’s growth, culture, and social fabric. From entrepreneurs and professionals to artists and educators, Indians contribute across nearly every sector of UAE life, strengthening both bilateral ties and the multicultural landscape of the country. Go to Source