Abu Dhabi marks Kerala Day celebrations
- Last updated: November 11, 2025 | 10:06 ..
Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala, attended “MALAYALOTSAVAM,” a celebration marking the 70th anniversary of the formation of the State of Kerala (Kerala Piravi), at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.
The celebration was held in the presence of Saji Cherian, Kerala’s Minister for Culture, Dr Deepak Mittal, Ambassador of India to the United Arab Emirates, businessman Yusuf Ali M.A., and a broad array of dignitaries, with more than 5,000 members of the Malayali community in attendance.
In his keynote address, Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak said, “I am delighted to welcome you to the United Arab Emirates and extend to you all my warmest greetings and sincere appreciation. It is truly an honour to be with you today.”
He affirmed the UAE’s deep appreciation for the enduring relationship between Kerala, India and the United Arab Emirates, noting that shared interests and values enable both sides to move forward together toward a more peaceful and prosperous world.
He highlighted Ambassador Dr Mittal’s continued contributions to strengthening bilateral relations, and commended Yusuf Ali M.A. for his pivotal role in deepening economic and cultural ties, describing him as “a dedicated son not only of Kerala but also of the UAE.”
He thanked the audience for celebrating Kerala’s linguistic and cultural identity, pointing out that the global Keralite community is renowned for talent, competence and energy, and that its commitment to culture and heritage enriches the UAE’s social fabric.
He noted that Keralites form an integral and valued part of the UAE’s diverse society, and that Kerala’s distinction in education has contributed to the country’s and the wider region’s progress.
He expressed, on behalf of the people of the UAE, his gratitude for the Malayali community’s hard work, reliability and friendship, underscoring that they are an invaluable part of the nation, and said his interactions with the community have always been inspiring. He explained that staying deeply connected to one’s roots while contributing to the UAE’s renaissance enriches both nations, and emphasised that Kerala’s diversity mirrors that of the UAE, where people of many nationalities and faiths live and work together in harmony under a “great Arab tent” welcoming residents from around the world.
WAM