Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, greeted everyone on the occasion of Christmas.

Sheikh Mohammed said on Twitter, “Congratulations to all Christians around the world on the Christmas Day… may God return it to everyone with goodness, peace, health and love…”

A diver dressed as Santa Claus greets visitors at the Dubai Mall aquarium. AFP

In the UAE, millions of people from various faiths and religions visit and spend their holidays, due to its respect, equality and coexistence, which are major characteristics of the country and its citizens and residents.

A Dubai Mall visitor interacts with a diver dressed as Santa Claus at the aquarium.

The UAE is currently witnessing a significant flow of tourists spending Christmas and New Year, as festive environments are present in its hotels, shopping malls and entertainment facilities.

The freedom to celebrate different religious occasions highlights the UAE’s moderation and coexistence, and the country has led the region in drafting legal frameworks, policies and procedures aimed at ensuring the freedom to practise religious rituals for people from all faiths, as well as the construction of temples, churches and other places of worship.