City Walk in Dubai transformed into a spectacular tapestry of international unity on Monday as thousands of residents gathered for the Eid Al Etihad parade, celebrating the UAE’s 54th National Day. The vibrant procession showcased an extraordinary display of cross-cultural harmony with participants from Russia, the Philippines, India, Pakistan, China, Turkey, and numerous other nations marching in unison while waving UAE flags and chanting expressions of affection for their host country.
The thoroughfares brimmed with enthusiastic spectators adorned in the UAE’s distinctive colors, enthusiastically recording the dynamic performances on their mobile devices. Attendees journeyed from across the emirates to participate in the festivities, creating an atmosphere of genuine international camaraderie.
Varvara Petrova, a Russian expatriate who accessorized with a traditional platok scarf, expressed how marching in the parade fostered a profound connection to the UAE. ‘Having resided here for four years, this procession demonstrates the nation’s remarkable inclusivity toward all nationalities,’ she remarked.
Mary Marisol, representing the Filipino community contingent, emphasized their heartfelt gratitude through chants of ‘We love UAE.’ She elaborated, ‘Our chants reflect genuine appreciation for everything this nation has provided us. The collective celebration created an immensely uplifting experience.’
Pakistani participant Bilal Ahmed highlighted the cultural fusion as the event’s defining characteristic. ‘Witnessing diverse nationalities marching together with authentic affection and brotherhood is uniquely Emirati. This unity exists nowhere else quite like this,’ he observed.
The parade featured an enthralling sequence of cultural presentations, commencing with an Indian community band delivering spirited musical performances. Filipino groups followed with energetic cheers praising the UAE, while Chinese performers captivated audiences with an elegant umbrella dance that elicited enthusiastic applause. Russian contributors added chromatic vibrancy in traditional attire, and Pakistani contingents waved their flags with evident pride. Turkish residents displayed dual flags symbolizing their dual allegiances.
Families with children clad in national colors frequently paused to photograph the multicultural displays. Ayesha Khan from Al Nahda brought her children specifically to demonstrate the UAE’s multicultural coexistence, noting, ‘This resembled an enormous international family gathering. My children were delighted seeing everyone united in celebrating the UAE.’
Throughout the event, resonant chants of ‘We love UAE’ echoed across City Walk, powerfully conveying the profound connection expatriates feel toward their adopted homeland.