Sheikh Nahyan joins over 40,000 Filipinos to celebrate Kalayaan 2025 in Dubai

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, at Kalayaan 2025 in Dubai on June 1, 2025.

A crowd of more than 40,000 Filipinos and UAE residents gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Sunday (June 1) for Kalayaan 2025, a spectacular celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day. The event was graced by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, who praised the Filipino community’s spirit, resilience, and contributions to the emirates. “On behalf of the people of the United Arab Emirates, I extend our heartfelt congratulations and warmest greetings to the people of the Philippines,” Sheikh Nahyan said in his opening remarks. “This day marks not only your independence but your enduring spirit of resilience, community, and optimism,” he added. Sheikh Nahyan lauded the long-standing friendship between the UAE and the Philippines, acknowledging that Filipinos have enriched nearly every sector in the UAE, including healthcare, education, hospitality, finance, and the arts. “Although our two countries may be separated by geography, we are united by shared values: openness, optimism, mutual respect, and a belief in the dignity of every individual,” he emphasized.

Sheikh Nahyan said, “Filipino community represents everything the UAE stands for: courage, generosity, family, achievement, and the belief that when we come together across cultures and borders, we can build a more tolerant, inclusive, and prosperous world.”

Also present was Philippine Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac, who said, “Kalayaan not only commemorates our independence but also highlights the strong partnership that enables Filipinos to contribute meaningfully to both nations.” The 12-hour event featured a packed program of performances by top artists like Julia Barretto, Kai Montinola, Jarren Garcia, and MJ Cayabyab. Filipino cultural performers, entrepreneurs, and students also showcased their talents and products. From fashion shows and food stalls to a bicycle showcase and a Cargo Village, the celebration had something for everyone. “This celebration today is a reflection of how the UAE honors every culture and every heritage that we host in our country,” Sheikh Nahyan said. Event organizer Elena Cruz, CEO of Infinite Communities, noted, “Kalayaan is an event by the community for the community. It has become the ultimate showcase of the best of the Filipino spirit.” The celebration, hosted by Emirates Loves Philippines in partnership with Infinite Communities, TFC, and Dubai Police, served as a powerful symbol of Filipino pride, cultural unity, and the strong ties between the UAE and the Philippines. ICA/Expat Media