The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has intensified its Ramadan programmes at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Solo, Indonesia…reports Asian Lite News
The United Arab Emirates organised Iftar meals during the sacred Month of Ramadan in the Republic of the Philippines within the framework of the Ramadan Project (2024 AD – 1445 AH), and with the supervision of Mohammed Obaid Al Qattam, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines.
Thousands of meals supported by the Emirates Red Crescent were provided to beneficiaries in a number of Mosques and orphanages in the areas of Manila, Maharlika and Markina in the presence of a number of officials.
Mohammed Al Qattam said that this embodies the values of giving and humanity endorsed by the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a pioneer of charitable and humanitarian work, stressing that the UAE stands with the Philippines and its friendly people.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Indonesia
The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has intensified its Ramadan programmes at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Solo, Indonesia.
Due to the increasing number of worshippers at the mosque in the last ten days of Ramadan, the ERC has increased the number of Iftar meals it provides daily to 12,000.
The meals are distributed inside the mosque and in the surrounding area.
This is an increase from the 10,000 meals that the ERC had been providing daily since the beginning of Ramadan, following the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the ERC.
The ERC initiative reflects solidarity and cooperation, reinforcing the UAE’s humanitarian efforts during Ramadan.
The president expressed gratitude to Ukrainian Muslim servicemen fighting for Ukraine…reports Asian Lite News
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday hosted an iftar attended by servicemen and Muslim community representatives.
Zelensky, along with the Ukrainian military, hosted leaders of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, and representatives of the Muslim community and clergy, a statement on the president’s official website said.
The event was held on the territory of the Religious Administration of Muslims of Crimea.
This is the second time the president of Ukraine has held an iftar during the Muslim month of Ramadan after hosting a similar gathering in 2023.
“Last year we initiated a new tradition — to celebrate the holy Ramadan together … I am very glad that we are here today in the same composition. Unity is always important, especially when life is overshadowed by war and the strikes of evil,” Zelensky said.
Today, I attended an iftar.
Last year, we established a new tradition of celebrating the holy Ramadan together: our country's political leadership, the military command, representatives from the Ukrainian Muslim community, the Crimean Tatar Mejlis, and the diplomatic corps.… pic.twitter.com/mbPvS4uqYp
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 25, 2024
The president expressed gratitude to Ukrainian Muslim servicemen fighting for Ukraine.
“I would like to recognize Muslim warriors — all those who are part of the defense and security forces of Ukraine defending our country, our freedom. I thank each of our warriors for their bravery. I thank everyone who brings the liberation of our entire land and our Crimea closer,” he said.
The iftar featured recitations of prayers and exhibitions showcasing historical Qurans published in Crimea. The president also saw portraits of Muslim soldiers and heard the stories of their families, emphasizing their contributions to Ukraine’s defense.
The initiative during the Holy Month reflects the Emirati culture’s core values of coexistence. The choice of launching during this month is attributed to its atmosphere of closeness and solidarity…reports Asian Lite News
DP World Foundation (DPWF) has teamed up with the Dubai Charity Association to distribute 12,000 Iftar meals daily to workers in the JAFZA community throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.
In a joint effort reflecting the values of tolerance and compassion associated with Ramadan, DPWF – the philanthropic arm of DP World – has embarked on this initiative to foster harmony among diverse cultures and beliefs in the UAE.
Senior management of DP World and Dubai Charity Association visited one of the three dedicated Iftar tents in Jafza yesterday to engage with the community’s volunteers and members. The campaign will provide 360,000 meals during Ramadan.
The delegation included Nasser Abdulla, Vice Chairman of the DP World Foundation; Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC; Ahmed Ibrahim Al-Suwaidi, CEO of Dubai Charity Association; Nabil Qayed, DP World Foundation, Board Member and Executive Vice President of Corporate Support at DP World GCC; Latifa Al Qemzi, Director-General of DP World Foundation; Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer of Parks and Zones at DP World GCC, and a number of senior officials.
The initiative during the Holy Month reflects the Emirati culture’s core values of coexistence. The choice of launching during this month is attributed to its atmosphere of closeness and solidarity. This underscores the UAE’s unique social fabric, which is characterised by its cultural diversity,” Nasser Abdulla said.
Ahmed Al-Suwaidi said, “We are delighted to collaborate with the DP World Foundation in this endeavour. This partnership reflects Dubai Charity’s core strategy and values, demonstrating its commitment to expanding partnerships, promoting charitable activities, fostering a culture of volunteerism, and enhancing social and humanitarian engagement with diverse segments of society. Our approach aligns with the enduring humanitarian principles established by the late founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as a global exemplar in humanitarian and development efforts”.
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC, added: “The month of Ramadan is a time for community and generosity, and this initiative by DPWF exemplifies these values. We firmly believe that such initiatives play a crucial role in fostering strong bonds between diverse cultures and nationalities.”
With more than 200 nationalities and languages represented in the UAE, this initiative underscores the unity amidst diversity that defines the country. DPWF, in collaboration with DP World, leverages resources, expertise, and networks to address pressing social challenges and empower individuals and communities.
Try the superb chicken and paneer changezi for sure.. Explore by yourself so that you can suggest others…reports Asian Lite News
The month of Ramzan and the charm of Old Delhi! Even if you haven’t paid a visit to the Jama Masjid Road during this time yet, you must have heard loads of stories about this place from your friends. All these stories must be connected by a single thread, which is called food.
From juicy kebabs to Shahi Tukra, from fresh sharbat to sheermal… this place can be termed as the ‘heaven’ (Jannat) for the food-lovers. To increase your gastronomic appetite, let’s walk through the lanes of Jama Masjid Road which invites people from different parts of the world to savour their delicacies, especially during the month of Ramzan. The festive glory remains incomplete if you haven’t tasted the kebabs and nalli here!
Qureshi Kebab Corner – Situated just opposite Jama Masjid, this is a place for juicy and succulent kebabs. This is a must one in your list.
Haji Mohd. Hussain – For some juicy succulent fried fish and fried chicken taken out fresh from the frying pans to your plate, this is the address you need to search for. This place is located close to Al jawahar and Karims and serves some lip-smacking meats.
Aslam Chicken – You can’t miss this place for the legendary butter chicken. It’s not your usual gravy butter chicken. It’s a tandoori chicken topped with real butter. Try this with a Roomali Roti and write a food blog later.
Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale – For outstanding Nihari with a khameeri Roti, this is the place. Must try the brain curry too. The Nihari is cooked for for 8-10 hours. So it’s no wonder that it’s tender and the gravy is just outstanding.
Karim Hotel – Visit this place only for the legendary value. Try some kebabs and mutton stew here nonetheless.
Al-Jawahar – Try the superb chicken and paneer changezi for sure. Explore by yourself so that you can suggest others.
Cool Point: Even though you will find the entire street lined with shops selling the melt-in-mouth delicacy of shahi tukda and freshly made phirni and kheer each evening of this entire month, Cool Point serves the most heavenly form of it. The royal bread pudding, topped with rich dry fruits is considered as the must-have ones prepared specifically for the occasion.
What are you waiting for now? Book your date before Eid and savour all your favourite delicacies with your loved ones! (ANI)
Ramadan is a month of fasting and feasting. While fasting during the day, it might be challenging to organise the Iftar meal during Ramadan. We strongly advise making a Ramadan schedule and planning your meals ahead of time.
Saurabh Singh Chandel, Executive Chef, of Crowne Plaza, Greater Noida, shares some scrumptious and delectable Iftar recipes because it’s a tradition to prepare several foods during Iftar:
US-based fast-casual restaurant chain Bruxie, which started in California in 2010, has entered into Indian market this month with its first outlet in Gurugram, Haryana.
Fried chicken recipe
Chicken 160 gm
Gram flour 50gm
Egg 1 pc
Salt as per taste
Kasoori methi 1gm
Rice flour 40gm
Deghi mirch 10gm
Ginger garlic paste 30gm
Lemon juice 1/2 spoon
Oil for frying
Green chilli paste 1 pc
Preparation
For the brine, mix the buttermilk with all the spices in a large bowl. Transfer to a resealable gallon-sized plastic bag. Add the chicken, turn to coat and refrigerate overnight.
Heat 1 inch of oil in a large heavy-bottomed high-sided skillet over medium-high heat
Whisk the gram flour with the spices and add the chicken pieces to it. Turn chicken to coat and let rest until the oil gets hot. Tap off the excess flour and add as many pieces of chicken to the skillet as you can.
Fry chicken for 4 to 6 minutes until browned. Turn over and fry for another 4 to 6 minutes until the other side is deeply browned.
Using tongs, transfer the chicken pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve while warm or at room temperature.
Rooh Afza Sharbat
Milk 200 gm
Roohafza 100 gm
Elaichi 1 pc
Water 1 cup
Preparation
In a blender add milk, water, and rose syrup. You can add cardamom as well like in sweet lassi, but it may overpower the rose flavours coming out from roohafza. Blend well.
Serve chilled and garnish with some dry fruits. Semiya Kheer
Fenisamiya 50 gm
Milk 200 gm
Sugar 40 gm
Almond 4 pcs
Raisins 6 pcs
Pistachios 4 pcs
Makhana 6 pcs
Ghee 10 gm
Elaichi 2 pcs
Preparation
Add milk to the same pan and bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching the bottom of the pan.
When it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Keep scraping the sides of the pan while cooking and add the solidified milk back to the pan.
Now add the roasted sevai and raisins.
Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the kheer thickens to the desired consistency, stirring frequently. Keep in mind that it will thicken further upon cooling. Add cardamom powder and sugar and mix well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes. Check for sugar and add more if needed.
Garnish with pistachio and almond slivers.
Serve hot or chilled.
Kala Chana Chat
Black Chana 80gm
Chop onion 30 gm
Chop tomato 30 gm
Green chilli 3 gm
Lemon juice1 spoon
Coriander leaves 3 gm
Salt for taste
Chat masala 5gm
Preparation
Rinse and then finely chop the onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and coriander leaves. If you prefer, you can peel the unripe mango.
In a large bowl, add all the ingredients including the cooked black chickpeas.
Mix thoroughly. Taste and if required, add more of the ground spice powders, lemon juice, and salt.
Garnish with some chopped coriander leaves. Serve Kala Chana Chat warm. Before serving, garnish with some coriander leaves and lemon wedges.
5 easy to prepare Ramadan recipes for your Iftar party.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Kharbuje Ka Meetha
Local musk melon 1 pc
Sugar 100 gm
Kaju 50 gm
Elaichi 5 pcs
Vanilla essence 1ml
Preparation
Wash a melon and cut it into half.
Make small cuts with a knife or spoon in the edges on the inside and mix the pulp and stir vigorously. Alternatively, you can chop melon pieces in a bowl and stir vigorously so that it leaves water and becomes liquid.
You may add sugar if it is not naturally sweet. Adding sugar makes it juicer
Add cardamom powder and garnish with dry fruit pieces. You can use crushed badam and peeled melon seeds.
Over 250 people from various nationalities and faiths joined the annual inter-faith Iftar held at Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara in Jebel Ali…reports Asian Lite News
A Sikh religious place in Dubai has become an icon for inter-faith harmony in the UAE. Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara in Jebel Ali has been holding Interfaith Iftar gathering since 2012 and during this period there is an exchange of thoughts, philosophies as well as culture among the communities of Sikh, Islam, Christianity and Hinduism, who all participate enthusiastically.
During Ramadan, the Gurudwara becomes a place of tolerance wherein Muslims and non-Muslims are able to practice their faith – in this way we embrace the value of tolerance by sharing a meal not only with people from our congregation but with people from different faiths as well.
H.E. Sunjay Sudhir, Indian Ambassador to the UAEDr. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, DubaiDr Omar Al-Muthanna, CEO of the Regulatory and Licensing Sector at Community Development Authority (CDA)
Dr. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara Dubai said: “Ramadan reminds us of our shared responsibility to treat others as we wish to be treated ourselves and the basic principles that bind people of different faiths together: a yearning for peace, justice, and equality. It’s a reflective period where we analyze the person we are becoming. A month of countless blessings”.
He wished the Rulers of the UAE; the UAE government authorities and all the Muslim brothers and sisters across the globe, a month blessed with the joys of family, togetherness, peace, love and understanding.
The Iftar was attended by H.E. Sunjay Sudhir, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Major General Ahmed Khalfan AlMansoori from Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Dr Omar Al-Muthanna, CEO of the Regulatory and Licensing Sector at Community Development Authority (CDA) Dubai, as well as representatives from the embassies and consulates and various faith leaders and businessman.
Speaking about the similarities between Islam and Sikhism. Dr Kandhari said: “In Islam, one of the greatest principles is feeding the hungry. We follow the same principle in Dubai Gurudwara, where all day food is served free to all. We serve daily 2,000 people on normal days, and 20,000 on Saturdays and Sundays. Make honest and truthful living and keep 10% of it for charity – that is what we call “Dusvant” – Just like in Islam you have “Zakat” – the same principle. This is our commitment to society.”
London, United Kingdom. Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine addresses Members of Parliament from Westminster Hall in the Houses of Parliament. Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street
The Tatar community, which accounted for 12-15 percent of the two million Crimea residents, largely boycotted the 2014 vote…reports Asian Lite News
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised Russia’s treatment of the Muslim-minority Tatar community in Kremlin-controlled Crimea and vowed to recapture the peninsula from Russia during a first official state iftar.
Russia wrested control of the Black Sea territory from Ukraine in 2014 and pushed through a referendum on the annexation that was condemned as fraudulent and illegitimate by Ukraine and its Western allies.
“Russia’s attempt to enslave Ukraine … began exactly with the occupation of Crimea, exactly with repressions against Crimean, Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar freedom and of Crimean Muslims,” he told Ukrainian Muslim leaders and ambassadors from Muslim countries.
The Tatar community, which accounted for 12-15 percent of the two million Crimea residents, largely boycotted the 2014 vote.
Moscow then banned the Mejlis — the traditional assembly of the Tatar Muslim minority in Crimea — declaring it an extremist organisation and has jailed members of the community since, citing security concerns.
“There is no alternative for Ukraine, or for the world, other than the de-occupation of Crimea. We will return to Crimea,” Zelensky said, before handing out awards to several Muslim Ukrainian servicemen.
Zelensky, speaking at a mosque outside the centre of the capital, announced that Ukraine was beginning a new tradition of hosting an official iftar, the meal breaking the daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
“Ukraine is grateful to the Muslims of our country and to everyone in the Muslim community of the world who, like us, longs for peace and protection from evil,” he added.
President Zelensky with Ukrainian Muslim soldiers, leaders of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, & representatives of the Muslim clergy, took part in the Iftar, a dinner held during the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims. "We will return to #Crimea." https://t.co/74fHTXuApjpic.twitter.com/Ra3yTuqlqN
Several Muslim-majority countries, including Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have positioned themselves as mediators in the conflict in Ukraine, brokering agreements between Kyiv and Moscow on grain exports or prisoner exchanges.
Russia has a large Muslim minority from southern regions, including Chechnya and Dagestan, many of whom are fighting for Moscow in Ukraine.
Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water followed by a light and nutritious meal…reports Asian Lite News
Ramzan, which is considered to be the holiest month in the religion of Islam, has finally arrived. It marks the beginning of the month-long fasting period.
During the 30 days or so, people belonging to the Muslim community exercise restraint in their eating habits and eat only twice a day — a pre-fast meal at dawn called ‘sehri’, and a post-fast meal after sunset called ‘iftar’.
Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water followed by a light and nutritious meal. However, there are also some special dishes made only during Ramzan and enjoyed at Iftar get-togethers.Here’s a list of the best Iftar meals to try:
Hara Bhara Kebab
Hara bhara kebabs are perfect for vegetarians. This evening snack is made with spinach and gram dal, which is high in protein, iron, vitamins and minerals.
2. Seviyaan
Made in a number of ways, this delightful dessert is not just super easy but also quite versatile. It is made using vermicelli and milk. It’s creamy, easy to make, and most importantly, delicious.
3. Biryani
One can never get bored of the classic mutton biryani served with salan. Why not make your Iftar meal fulfilling and healthy with biryani?
4. Mohabbat ka sherbet
Mohabbat ka Sherbet is a rose-flavoured milk-based drink. One can also add watermelon chunks to it. Many carts can be found selling this refreshing drink during the month of Ramzan.
5. Cardamom Kheer
No meal is complete without sweets. If you want to add a sweet touch to your Iftar meal, then you should definitely try cooking cardamom kheer. It’s basically a rice pudding seasoned with cardamom and cinnamon.
Don’t forget to treat your taste buds with these mouth-watering dishes. (ANI)
Time Out Market Dubai has featured across 43,000 sq ft an incredible mix of cuisines as well as many local artists and entertainment, making it a hotspot for both local visitors and international tourists…reports Asian Lite News
Each of the Market’s homegrown vendors will be serving up a host of exclusive iftar menus and there will be live entertainment as well as Ramadan decorations during the whole month
Dubai, UAE (13 March 2023) In celebration of Ramadan, Time Out Market Dubai is launching a special Ramadan menu, from 22nd March until 21st April. Bringing some of the best iftars in Dubai together under one roof, each of the Market’s 17 chefs and restaurant concepts will be featuring a variety of exclusive dishes and Ramadan specials, transforming the Market into the perfect location to celebrate with friends and family and to indulge in culinary delights prepared by some of Dubai’s best homegrown foodie favourites.
Every evening once iftar commences, guests will enjoy an authentic live music experience of traditional oud and qanun players. And throughout the month, the entire Market will be beautifully decorated with Ramadan ornaments and there will be a Ramadan-inspired pop-up at the entrance, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves and celebrate the occasion in a perfect ambience.
Both fasting and non-fasting guests can expect a range of Arabic delicacies as well as a creative twist on some of the Market’s signature dishes. Some of the dishes will include Iftar Thali from Masti; an eclectic mix of flavour consisting of fresh fruit, lentil soup, vegetable samosa and lamb haleem to name a few dishes. Pitfire will be offering its Pulled Lamb Shawarma Pizza which is marinated for 24 hours and bursting with flavour, drizzled with a spiced tahini yoghurt sauce and topped with parsley, onion salad, and Arabic pickles.
For those with a sweeter tooth, Scoopi has added a new flavour to its menu and will be serving Madagascar Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with fresh dates. Those visiting the Market can delve into a special mocktail menu from the three bars, plus individual concessions have launched special drink flavours such as the Date Delight Frappuccino from Boon Coffee, topped with date drizzle and whipped cream. Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, with stunning Burj Khalifa views, Time Out Market Dubai is a food and cultural market that brings the best of the city together under one roof: the best chefs, restaurateurs and cultural experiences – all based on editorial curation. Since opening in 2021, Time Out Market Dubai has featured across 43,000 sq ft an incredible mix of cuisines as well as many local artists and entertainment, making it a hotspot for both local visitors and international tourists.
Iftar Menus by Time Out Market Dubai’s 17 Chefs & Restaurant Concepts:
Fulvio’s – A heartfelt Lentil Soup with creamy burrata’s stracciatella and crispy croutons
Pitfire Pizza – Pulled Lamb Shawarma Pizza bursting with flavour and drizzled with a spiced tahini yoghurt sauce and topped with parsley, onion salad, and Arabic Pickles
Boon Coffee – Date Delight Frappuccino topped with fluffy whipped cream and date drizzle. A Salted Caramel Latte, made of espresso and milk topped with whipped cream and a heavenly caramel sauce.
The Lighthouse – The popular and traditional Middle Eastern dessert Knafeh, made of a shredded filo crust garnished with pistachios and syrup
BB Social Dining – Fiery Lentil Soup made of spiced lentils with oregano, cinnamon and tomatoes. A Bao Kofta Bao with a steamed fluffy bao bun with minced lamb, tzatziki, onion green apple salad and jalapenos.
Long Teng – Sizzling Wok Fried Veal topped with scallions, green onions and rumy pepper
Al Fanar – Mutton Stew cooked in a flavoursome tomato sauce and Arabic spices, served with seasonal vegetables
Pickl – Tender Bucket including 14 fresh fried chicken tenders and two portions of fries – the perfect scrumptious sharer
Mattar – Succulent Pulled Lamb Mandi, a 24-hour smoked lamb with Mattar’s signature Mandi rice
Reif – Braised Japanese Curry Lamb shank with flavoursome ghee rice, accompanied by coriander & raita
21grams – Bosnian Klepe Dumplings filled with minced angus beef with garlic yoghurt and smoked paprika butter, garnished with roasted walnuts and parsley
Lana Lusa – Grilled Sea Bream with a wholesome baked potato topped with fresh tomato salsa
Slab Cocina – Fire grilled Peruvian Anticuchos Kebab served with creamy corn, potato and fresh mint chutney on the side
Vietnamese Foodies – Delicious Flat Rice Noodles with special sauce and 5 spices grilled chicken
Liban by Allo Beirut – Iftar Menu: Dates, Jalab, Lentil Soup, 1/2 Fattouch or 1/2 Tabbouleh, 1/2 Hummus or 1/2 Mutable, Choice of 2 pieces of (Spinach Fatayer / Cheese or Meat Samosa), Choice of 1 dish from Machboos Chicken / Arabic Shawarma Beef or Chicken / Grilled Platter 3 Skewer Chicken Tawouk or Lamb Kofta / Mix Grill 3 Skewer, Choice of 2 pieces of dessert (Macaroons, Maamoul, Sfouf)
Dr. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman and founder of Gurunanak Darbar Dubai, welcomed the guests to Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple
Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple in Dubai hosted an Iftar gathering recently which was attended by senior UAE officials, citizens, diplomats, prominent religious and business personalities, Sikh community and members of all other faiths to spread the true spirit of the holy month of Ramadan.
The guests were welcomed by Dr. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman and founder of Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple Dubai.
HE Sunjay Sudhir, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Dr. Omar Al Muthanna, CEO, Regulatory and Licensing Department at CDA, Mirza Al Sayegh, Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Maktoum Foundation, were also present at the Gurudwara to convey and extend the message of friendship, tolerance, and acceptance. Maghrib prayers were led by Muslim religious scholars present at the Langar Hall after Iftar.
The officials and diplomats spoke about the unique event for promoting religious harmony and efforts of bringing together people from all walks of life. Former Pakistan cricketer Zaheer Abbas and Pamela Serena, Mrs. Universe Dubai 2021, the first Sikh lady to win the title were among the guests.
The Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple in Dubai opened a decade ago has welcomed people of all faiths and has been hosting Iftar gatherings every Ramadan but for the last two years due to Covid-19. Gurunanak Darbar Dubai also played a major role in helping authorities during the pandemic. Their efforts were welcomed and applauded by government officials and diplomats.
Dr. Kandhari praised the kindness and support of HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM, Ruler of Dubai for granting free land to fulfill the dreams of Sikh community for building a Sikh place of worship in Dubai.
He said, “UAE is one of the safest places in the world today and we all are the children of one God and living as brothers and sisters in this country. It is a place where everyone gets support and enjoys freedom. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple Dubai’s doors are open to people from all faiths and food is served three times a day in Langar irrespective of their religion and position.”
HE Sunjay Sudhir, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE praised the UAE Rulers for promoting tolerance, cohabitation, and coexistence. He also appreciated the effort of Gurudwara for extending support to those who were affected during the pandemic. “India is the second-largest country of Muslim population in the world after Indonesia, our nation is known for celebrating various religious festivals, which pass the message of unity and togetherness,” he said.
Mirza Al Sayegh, Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Maktoum Foundation and the former UAE Consul General of India, told Asian Lite that India-UAE relations are centuries old. “Thanks to the Royal family of Dubai for harboring and protecting above 200 nationalities living in the UAE,” he said.
“This ceremony exemplifies to me the forgiving and understanding of harmony and friendship, especially for Sikh community who are known for their hard work and loyalty,” said Al Sayegh.
He pointed out the centuries-old Indo-Arab relations and praised the values of humanity and harmony in India by mentioning the states like Gujarat, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and cities like Mumbai, Kolkata and Surat.
Dr. Omar Al Muthanna, CEO, Communitive Development Authority, Dubai, said the Iftar demonstrated the success of solidarity of various communities living in the UAE. “The Sikh community is not only an important companion of the UAE society but also committed to showing loyalty, positivity, and respecting diversity in the UAE. The Iftar gathering, a simple act of courtesy, is a way of honoring humanity while preserving the respect and self-esteem of others,” he said.
