Sudanese Diaspora in UAE Celebrates 54th Union Day with Joyous Festivities
The Sudanese community in the UAE celebrated the country's 54th Union Day with large gatherings in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, expressing deep gratitude for the Emirates' support during Sudan's ongoing crisis. The events brought together hundreds of community members alongside Emirati artists and poets, showcasing the strong cultural bonds between the two nations.
Sheikh Mansour bin Suroor bin Mohammed Al Sharqi attended the main celebration at the Sudanese Social Club in Abu Dhabi. The event featured traditional performances from both countries, including folk dances and patriotic songs that highlighted the shared heritage between Emiratis and Sudanese.
Mohammed Bahaa El-Din, president of the Sudanese Club, praised the UAE's role as a safe haven for hundreds of thousands of Sudanese residents. He called the Emirates a rare example of tolerance and humanitarian support, particularly noting its assistance to millions of Sudanese refugees displaced by the current conflict back home.
The celebrations took on special meaning given Sudan's ongoing civil war, which has forced many to seek refuge abroad. The UAE has provided significant humanitarian aid to Sudanese refugees, making the community's gratitude particularly heartfelt during this national celebration.
In Ras Al Khaimah, the local Sudanese club hosted the second edition of the "Magic of Heritage Between Tradition and Modernity" festival. The event included Sudanese musical performances and a bazaar featuring 28 stalls run by productive families, along with competitions and prizes for participants.
Khalid Al-Shazly, director of the club's cultural committee, emphasized how the UAE's authentic support for the Sudanese people continues under all circumstances. The festivals demonstrate how expatriate communities use national celebrations to strengthen ties with their host country while maintaining their cultural identity.
Sara Khaled