Melodious strains of Iranian music and traditional drums resonated through the south halls of the Dubai Exhibition Center (DEC) on Saturday as thousands of Iranians in the UAE gathered to celebrate their rich culture, music, and traditions at a vibrant event. Esteemed artists such as Homayoun Shajarian, Karzan Qasemi, and Ali Ghamsari graced the stage of Jashan Iran, touted as the inaugural Iran Fest in the UAE.
For numerous Iranians residing in the country for decades, it was a moment of pride. “It’s wonderful to see our culture celebrated on such a grand scale,” expressed Fatemah Ranjbar, born and raised in the UAE. “Homayoun Shajarian is a global artist who has performed at Dubai Opera. His participation in this free public event is a fantastic gesture for all Iranians here.”
Sharareh Karimi in traditional attire at the event. Photo: Shihab
Organized by the Emirates Loves Iran social media platform—highlighting inspiring success stories and contributions of the Iranian community to the UAE’s growth—in collaboration with Dubai Police, the event showcased paintings, handicrafts, Iranian cuisine, and mat weaving.
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During his address, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan remarked that the event mirrored the UAE community’s “admiration” for Iranians. “We reaffirm the longstanding friendship between Iran and the UAE,” he proclaimed, receiving resounding applause.
“We share a historical journey, trading across seas, sharing stories, interweaving families, supporting one another, and striving for global peace, stability, and security.”
First time
For Fatemah’s father, Abdul Aziz, participating in this exhibition was special. He had a stall for his shop, Milan Couture—established 65 years ago in the UAE—at the event. “The business was founded by my father, and I’ve been involved for over 58 years,” he shared. “I started with shoes, but after marriage, my wife began designing abayas and kaftans with traditional Iranian prints. This is the first large Iranian gathering celebrating our culture and music, so I wanted to join.”
Maria Raisien, a visitor at the event. Photo: Shihab
Abdul Aziz, his wife Manizhe Moeini, and Fatema were at their stall greeting visitors as a family. “Our first shop was in Naif Souq,” he recollected. “Then we moved to Murshid Bazaar, now located in Hamriya at the Union Coop building. I’ve seen the UAE grow before my eyes.”
According to Iranian Consul General in Dubai and Northern Emirates, Alireza Mahmoudi, nearly 800,000 Iranians reside in the UAE. “This event is significant for both Iranians and Emiratis due to the longstanding fruitful relationship,” he noted. “Iranians have been here pre-unification, contributing to the country’s growth. My mission is to enhance relations between the two nations.”
Photo: Shihab
Keeping traditions alive
Another highlight was the synchronized performance of Iranian martial arts practitioners using the weighted wooden mace. The traditional martial art, Pahlavani, is now offered in the UAE by fitness center OS1.
“This ancient combat form was practiced by Iranian warriors,” said Mona Dirbaz, owner of OS1. “It enhances mobility and coordination, serving as an excellent workout. As it was becoming forgotten, we revived it to introduce to more people.”
Mona explained that the wooden mace is superior for strength training compared to dumbbells or kettlebells. “While lifting other weights targets specific shoulder muscles, the mace provides a comprehensive shoulder workout.”
Writing competition
Sheikh Nahyan also invited attendees to join the UAE Writing Competition, organized by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence with Sandooq Al Watan, as part of the Year of Community, themed ‘What the UAE Means to Me.’
“This is an invitation to share your voice, your story, your journey,” he announced. “You might write about your first glimpse of Dubai’s shores, glittering with possibilities, or the joy of celebrating Nowruz in Abu Dhabi, where Iranian traditions harmonize with Emirati hospitality.”
Entries can be essays, poems, or letters in Arabic or English, submitted via www.myuaestory.ae. Winning submissions will be published in a bilingual commemorative book series, and winners celebrated at a national ceremony, receiving recognition and prizes.
