Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan at Kalayaan 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre on June 7, 2026. EXPAT MEDIA

UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan delivered a heartfelt Philippine Independence Day message to the Filipino community at Kalayaan 2026 in Dubai on Sunday (June 7), praising Filipinos for their contribution to the UAE's success. Speaking before thousands of attendees at Kalayaan 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Nahyan praised Filipinos for embodying the principles of diversity, mutual respect and coexistence that have become central to the UAE’s identity. “Mabuhay!” Sheikh Nahyan greeted the crowd in Filipino, drawing loud cheers and applause from the audience. The minister described the Filipino community as an important part of the UAE’s success story, saying Filipinos have strengthened the country through their contributions across various sectors. “The Filipino community has become an important part of the UAE’s success. Through your contributions across every sector, you have strengthened our country and support its continued progress,” he said. The celebration in Dubai was part of month-long activities marking the Philippines’ 128th Independence Day on June 12 and was attended by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, Philippine Consul General Ambrosio Brian Enciso, Labour Attache John Rio Bautista, embassy and consulate officials, and community leaders. Organizers said more than 60,000 Filipinos and guests attended the event.

Filipino values mirror UAE ideals

Addressing the crowd, Sheikh Nahyan said the Philippines is a nation whose destiny is “shaped by talents, strengthened by sacrifice, sustained by faith, reinforced by dedication.” “These are the values we see every day in the lives of Filipinos who live and work with us in the United Arab Emirates,” he said. The minister noted that when he joined the community’s Independence Day celebration a year earlier, he spoke about the friendship between the Philippines and the UAE, as well as the Filipino community’s knowledge, talent and generosity. “This year, I return to those same things with even greater appreciation,” he said. As Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Sheikh Nahyan said he has witnessed firsthand how Filipinos contribute to the multicultural fabric of the UAE. “More than 200 nationalities call this country home. We embrace and celebrate diversity. We believe that when people of different cultures live together with mutual respect, diversity becomes a source of strength,” he said. The minister also reflected on a period of regional uncertainty and praised the UAE leadership’s ability to maintain stability. “Our celebration of this year’s Independence Day comes at a time of regional conflict and unprovoked Iranian aggression,” Sheikh Nahyan said. “Steadiness comes from leadership. It comes from the wisdom and foresight of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has guided this country with resolve and determination through moments that tested us all.”

Stories that touched a minister

Among the highlights of Sheikh Nahyan’s speech was his reference to the “What the UAE Means to Me” national writing competition, which encourages residents and citizens to share personal reflections about life in the Emirates. He said he was deeply moved by the Filipino participants’ submissions. “What touched me most was the fact that those reflections were written by people who have built their lives here in the UAE,” he said. “These writings expressed values that the UAE appreciates: love of family, dedication to work, resilience in difficulty, generosity of spirit and joy in community.” Concluding his address, Sheikh Nahyan congratulated Filipinos on their Independence Day and encouraged them to continue building on the values that have shaped their nation. “May it continue to remind you that freedom carries responsibility, that national progress depends upon the character of the people, and that hope for the future is built through unity, perseverance and shared purpose,” he said. The day-long Kalayaan celebration featured performances by actress and singer Arci Muñoz and P-pop groups 1st.One, G22 and ALAMAT. Traditional Filipino culture was also showcased through folk dances, heritage presentations and the Sagala procession, highlighting the richness and diversity of Filipino traditions. The celebration was presented through Emirates Loves Philippines, Infinite Communities and The Filipino Channel, with support from D&R Elegant Events, Urban Grid Group and VivaOne. Philippine Independence Day is officially observed every June 12 to commemorate the country’s declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898. Across the UAE, Filipino organisations traditionally hold community celebrations throughout June, drawing thousands of overseas Filipinos annually. PIA/ICA/CAM/Expat Media
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