Iranian expats rejoice as UAE hosts fest celebrating their culture and heritage

Trains of Iranian music and traditional drums filled the air of the south halls of Dubai Exhibition Center (DEC) on Saturday as thousands of Iranians in the UAE gathered to celebrate their culture, music and tradition in a colourful event.

- Nasreen Abdulla

Renowned performers like Homayoun Shajarian, Karzan Qasemi and Ali Ghamsari took to the stage of Jashan Iran, which was described as the first Iran fest in the UAE.

For many Iranians, who had been living in the country for decades, it was a proud moment. “It feels great to see our culture being celebrated in such a beautiful and large-scale way,” said Fatemah Ranjbar, who was born and raised in the UAE. “Homayoun Shajarian is an international singer who has performed at the Dubai Opera. For him to come sing at this event, which is free for the public, is such an amazing thing for all Iranians in the country.”

The event was organised by the Emirates Loves Iran social media platform a social initiative highlighting inspiring success stories and the contributions of the Iranian community to the UAE’s growth in collaboration with Dubai Police. From paintings and handicraft to Iranian cuisine and mat weaving, there was plenty on display on the occasion.