Thousands of healthcare workers create giant Onam Pookalam in Abu Dhabi

Over 1,000 healthcare workers from 35 nationalities collaborated at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi to create a massive Onam Pookalam, a traditional Kerala floral carpet. This year, the artwork carried a powerful message of resilience and strength, featuring a portrait of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The central theme read, "The UAE is strong and resilient and emerging stronger," reflecting the leadership's confidence and the unity of the country.

The Pookalam symbolized the UAE's journey from its heritage to a bright future. Design elements contrasted traditional camel rides with modern Etihad Rail, representing the nation's progress. The floral design also showcased unity and care, highlighting healthcare professionals' significant role in contributing to the artwork.

For the nearly 1,000 participants, the event mirrored the UAE's values of resilience, unity, and progress. Dr. Mujtaba Ali Khan, CEO of BMC, emphasized how the diverse group of participants demonstrated the UAE's strength and shared sense of belonging. Dr. Malcolm Borg, a British national and consultant in emergency medicine, spoke of the personal significance of resilience in healthcare.

Onam, traditionally a festival of renewal and hope, resonated with the UAE's story of overcoming challenges while advancing. The giant Pookalam became a vibrant portrait of the country's promising future, embodying the UAE's commitment to its core values.