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Pakistan Association Dubai breaks Guinness World Record with giant UAE flag

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1 month ago

May 23, 2025

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In a powerful tribute to the UAE’s values of unity and community, Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD) has officially entered the Guinness World Records for creating the largest UAE flag made of handprints, featuring 24,514 prints from people of over 100 nationalities.

The record-breaking flag was unveiled during a special ceremony at the Pakistan Auditorium, where a Guinness World Records adjudicator verified the achievement in front of a crowd of 250 guests, including Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, and Consul General Hussain Muhammad.

“This initiative is a beautiful tribute to the UAE’s spirit of tolerance and innovation,” said Ambassador Tirmizi. “It reflects the deep love and gratitude of the Pakistani community towards a country that has embraced people from all walks of life.”

The feat was the culmination of PAD’s “Hands of Unity” campaign, launched as part of the UAE’s Year of Community. Over a month, volunteers collected handprints from 23 schools and universities, activated 39 community sites, and brought together thousands of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Each handprint represents a message of solidarity and appreciation from the UAE’s 2 million-strong Pakistani diaspora.

The record title was shared by Pakistan Association Dubai, community platform Emirates Loves, and artist Rubab Zahra, the creative force behind the flag. PAD President Dr. Faisel Ikram described the achievement as a “token of love” to the UAE.

“We are proud to call the UAE our second home,” he said. “This record reflects our commitment to unity, growth, and contribution. It would not have been possible without the passion and hard work of our volunteers and community partners.”

A touching video documenting the campaign’s journey was played at the ceremony, capturing the behind-the-scenes efforts of hundreds of volunteers. Certificates of appreciation were also presented to participating schools, sponsors, and partners who helped bring the vision to life.

“This was a community movement in every sense,” said Khalid Imtiaz, PAD’s Joint Secretary. “From classrooms to public parks, the energy and enthusiasm were truly inspiring.”

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

News

Abu Dhabi streets come alive with lights to celebrate Hijri New Year

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5 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi is welcoming the Hijri year 1447 in spectacular style, with illuminated decorations and vibrant art installations now adorning the city’s Corniche and bridges.

The initiative, led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport through Abu Dhabi City Municipality, is designed to reflect the spiritual essence and cultural beauty of the Islamic New Year, while adding to the emirate’s urban charm.

A Blend of Faith, Heritage and Art

The glowing displays feature intricate designs inspired by Islamic architecture, nature, and Emirati heritage, with the phrase “Hijri Year 1447” etched across many pieces. Using a stunning mix of golden yellow, white, pistachio, and sky blue hues, the decorations bring a festive and spiritual energy to the cityscape.

At the Abu Dhabi Corniche, visitors will find illuminated curtains suspended between lampposts, blending Eid Al Adha and Hijri New Year motifs in a celebration of light, colour, and joy.

Designed with Safety & Sustainability in Mind

All installations use energy-efficient LED lights and weather-resistant materials to ensure both durability and safety. Each piece has been strategically placed to match the layout of streets and walkways, making the city’s celebration beautiful and secure for pedestrians and drivers alike.

So whether you’re strolling the Corniche or driving through the city, take a moment to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s glowing tribute to the start of the Islamic calendar year, a celebration of faith, tradition, and forward-looking beauty.

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Dubai announces free parking and public transport for Hijri New Year holiday

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6 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Heads up, Dubai residents. In celebration of the Hijri New Year, all public parking in Dubai will be free on Friday, June 27, except for multi-level parking terminals. Regular parking fees will resume on Saturday, June 28, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced.

Public Transport Hours – Friday, June 27

Dubai Metro: 5am (June 27) to 1am (June 28)
Dubai Tram: 6am (June 27) to 1am (June 28)

RTA Service Centres

Closed: All RTA Customer Happiness Centres and service provider centres
Open: Smart Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Deira, Al Barsha, and RTA Head Office (available 24/7)

Vehicle Testing

No technical testing on Friday, services resume Saturday, June 28.

For the latest updates on bus and marine transport schedules, commuters are encouraged to check the RTA or S’hail app.

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UAE–Pakistan Travel: New agreement allows visa-free travel for select citizens

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7 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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In a move set to deepen long-standing ties, the UAE and Pakistan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for mutual visa exemption, allowing diplomatic and official passport holders of both countries to travel without entry visas. The agreement is expected to streamline travel and strengthen people-to-people connections between the two nations.

The visa exemption MoU was signed during the 12th session of the UAE–Pakistan Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), held in Abu Dhabi, and attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Agreements Beyond Visas

The high-level meeting saw the signing of several key MoUs, including:

A joint task force to promote UAE investments in Pakistan’s strategic sectors
An MoU on cooperation in artificial intelligence and the digital economy

These were signed by Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and senior Pakistani officials, including Tariq Bajwa, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Zarar Hashim Khan, Federal Secretary at Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications.

A Trusted and Historic Partnership

The UAE and Pakistan reviewed cooperation across trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, and technology during the session.

Speaking at the event, Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, who led the UAE delegation, described Pakistan as a long-standing and trusted partner, highlighting diplomatic ties dating back to 1971.

“This partnership is built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for the future,” Al Sayegh said, noting that non-oil trade exceeded $8.6 billion in 2024.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing bilateral relations and ensuring prosperity, stability, and development for future generations.