'My soul is Iraqi, my heart is Emirati': Iraqi community comes together in celebration in Dubai

Hundreds of Iraqi community members in the UAE gathered at Expo City Dubai on Saturday to celebrate their heritage and the strong bond between Iraq and the Emirates. The second UAE Loves Iraq event showcased traditional music, food, and landmarks-inspired displays, allowing Iraqi families and Emirati guests to come together and strengthen cultural ties.

At the conference centre in Expo City Dubai, attendees dressed in traditional Iraqi attire, enjoyed folk performances, and savored cuisine. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, praised Iraqi residents' contributions to life in the Emirates and highlighted Iraq's rich cultural heritage, which birthed crucial innovations such as the first wheel and letters.

For many Iraqi residents, the celebration was a chance to reconnect with their roots and reflect on the lives they've built in the Emirates while preserving their ties to Iraq. Mohammed Al Tawaiji, a 48-year-old resident for 20 years, expressed his deep sense of belonging, stating, "My soul is Iraqi and my heart is Emirati." Afnan Al Rawi, an Iraqi doctor who has lived in Dubai for 17 years, noted the shared traditions and values between the two communities.

Younger members of the community, like 22-year-old Ali Mohammed, also appreciated the event as an opportunity to explore their Iraqi identity. For some, such gatherings offered a rare chance to reunite with fellow Iraqis and immerse themselves in familiar traditions. Ibrahim Ali Binhatem, an Emirati writer, attended to share in the community's pride in its heritage and strengthen bonds with fellow Iraqis.