Abu Dhabi Hosts National Tolerance Festival Inaugurated by Nahyan bin Mubarak

The UAE will host its seventh National Festival of Tolerance and Coexistence from November 14-18 in Abu Dhabi, with China serving as this year's guest of honor. The event aims to reach all segments of Emirati society while promoting global messages of human brotherhood and peaceful coexistence.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, will open the festival on Friday evening at Umm Al Emarat Park. This year's theme, "Hand in Hand," reflects the UAE's focus on community unity and marks the country's continued commitment to positioning itself as a regional and global model for tolerance.

The festival features over 49 pavilions showcasing contributions from government institutions, private organizations, and embassies of friendly nations. These displays include cultural performances, heritage exhibitions, and traditional artifacts that represent the diverse communities living in the UAE.

A highlight of the event will be the "Tolerance March to Mars," led by Sheikh Nahyan and featuring participation from intellectuals, officials, ambassadors, and community members. The march symbolizes the UAE's ambitious vision of extending tolerance values beyond Earth.

The festival includes a National Identity corner titled "An Identity Open to the World," which houses a book exhibition featuring publications from the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence. Cultural and artistic activities for children and families focus on authentic Emirati values.

Artists from the UAE and around the world are creating a "Tolerance Mural" during the festival. More than 15 visual artists will contribute to this collaborative artwork exploring how art can strengthen tolerance values.

Sheikh Nahyan emphasized that the festival serves as an annual national occasion to celebrate the International Day of Tolerance. He noted that the event provides an opportunity to showcase the UAE's tolerance experience while highlighting other global examples of peaceful coexistence and cooperation.

The minister highlighted how the festival honors the legacy of the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose approach to tolerance and human brotherhood continues under President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership.

China's participation as guest of honor reflects the UAE's strategy of engaging diverse cultures in dialogue and mutual understanding. The collaboration demonstrates how different nations can work together under the umbrella of tolerance and coexistence.

The success of the festival depends on reaching broad audiences through both traditional and modern media channels. The event expects significant attendance from youth, children, families, citizens, residents, and various communities who will enjoy musical, heritage, and folkloric performances that reflect social unity and embody the values of tolerance and human brotherhood.