Indian expats in the UAE celebrate 77th Republic Day with patriotic fervour
- Last updated: January 27, 2026 | 10:37 ..
Raghib Hassan, Staff Reporter
The Indian expat community in the UAE enthusiastically celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day at the Indian Consulate auditorium in Dubai on Monday morning. Dressed in traditional attire, carrying Indian flags, peppered with patriotism, Indians started coming at the Consulate auditorium from the early morning. Wearing fragrance of patriotism and braving morning chill and inclement weather, scores of Indians reached at the venue much before the actual time and this shows their affection for their motherland. Small children and senior citizens were also seen cheering for India, even intermittent drizzling could not dampen their spirit.
Consul General of India in Dubai and Northern Emirates, Satish Kumar Sivan, unfurled the Indian flag as the national anthem spread the fragrance of patriotism all around the atmosphere and made everyone nostalgic. The moment Consul General arrived at the auditorium, audiences who were waiting eagerly to be the part of the flag hoisting ceremony, started capturing the moment with their mobile devices, while some of them even shared their moments with their loved ones live, reflecting their strong affection for their homeland.
Sivan inspired audiences with short and crisp speech. Sivan also read out excerpts from the Republic Day message of the Indian President Droupadi Murmu.
Addressing the audience, Sivan said, “It gives me immense pride and profound joy to stand before you today on this auspicious occasion of the 77th Republic Day of India. Today, as we unfurl our sacred Tiranga, we reaffirm our pledge to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These enduring values continue to inspire Indians at home and across the world, binding us together in shared purpose and hope. Our Constitution is not just a legal document; it is a living testament to the hopes and dreams of millions who fought for freedom and a better future.”
Thanking UAE and its leadership, he observed, “On behalf of the people of India, I express our deepest gratitude to the leadership and people of the United Arab Emirates for their unstinting support and friendship. This partnership exemplifies how two nations can move forward together — with mutual respect, trust, and shared aspirations.”
He added, “This year, we mark a truly significant milestone — the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Vande Mataram has traversed through history, becoming an anthem of devotion, courage, and love for the motherland. Its words echoed through the hearts of freedom fighters and inspired generations.”
Talking about India and the UAE relationship, he said, “As we celebrate our Republic Day, we are also mindful of the extraordinary relationship between India and the United Arab Emirates —that has matured into one of the most dynamic and forward-looking bilateral partnerships in the world. Our ties with the UAE are rooted in civilisational interactions that stretch back centuries, carried by ancient maritime networks and shared cultural exchanges. Today, this historical continuity has blossomed into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, encompassing cooperation across trade, investment, energy, technology, defence, space, and people to people exchanges.”
“In 2025–26, the relationship reached several new milestones that reflect both ambition and shared vision. Bilateral trade between India and the UAE has already surpassed USD 100 billion, a remarkable achievement that reflects the trust and vibrancy of our economic engagement. Both the nations have agreed to double this trade volume to USD 200 billion by 2032, signaling even deeper economic integration and mutual growth. These gains are not abstract statistics — they represent jobs created, products traded, markets expanded, and livelihoods transformed.”
During recent visit by the President of UAE His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan last week, the bilateral relation reached new heights.
He informed, “There were various agreements signed viz., A landmark 10 year liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreement, enhancing India’s energy security and positioning the UAE as a key long term energy partner.”
“Beyond energy, both nations signed letters of intent and agreements on defence collaboration, space technology cooperation, and infrastructure investment. These initiatives reflect shared ambitions in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and cutting edge sectors. “
Discussions on digital infrastructure partnerships, including the exploration of “digital embassies” and secure data cooperation, position our alliance at the forefront of technological diplomacy.
Together, these initiatives signal that India and the UAE are not merely cooperating — they are co creating a future shaped by innovation, resilience, and mutual prosperity.”
Showering praise on the Indian community of the UAE, he said, “The Indian community in the UAE is both vast and vibrant, representing one of the largest and most diverse Indian diasporas in the world. You are entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators, educators, caregivers, and cultural ambassadors — contributing to every facet of life in this land.”
“Your achievements resonate not only within the Indian community but also within the broader society of the UAE, enriching its multicultural tapestry. Your successes reflect the confidence and trust that UAE has placed in your work and the integrity with which you carry yourselves. We salute all your accomplishments.”
Praising audiences once again, he said, “Finally, let me once again thank you for your presence today despite it being a working day and displaying your love for your motherland.”
A medley of song and dance performances lifted the spirit of audiences and made them nostalgic. Later, a very talented team of Royal Academy of Ajman presented a medley of patriotic song and dance performances, showcasing India’s rich cultural and regional diversity. The Consul General later graced the Indian High School Dubai and inspired young minds with his talks and magnetic presence.