The Department of Community Development (DCD), Abu Dhabi, celebrated the festival of Diwali with the Indian community of Abu Dhabi, in an effort to promote a culture of integration and social solidarity in the Abu Dhabi community. The DCD is responsible for regulation of the social sector, which provides licenses for non-Muslim worship areas in the Emirate, and it aims to celebrate the cultural diversity in the Emirate by participating the social events of various communities. Through this, the Department aims to contribute to the principles of forgiveness and friendship among society members.
H.E. Mohamed Helal AlBalooshi,Executive Director of the Strategic Affairs office and Acting Executive Director of the Community Engagement and Sports Sector at the DCD highlighted the significance of participating in celebrations of various delegations, as it fortifies friendship values and social solidarity, further promoting the concept of forgiveness among society members. He stated that Diwali is one of the largest festivals of India, and celebrating such occasion is significant as Abu Dhabi has a large population of Indian residents. This reflects Abu Dhabi’s cultural connectivity by recognising various culture, traditions, and customs of different nationalities.
He further said that embracing other nationalities and their culture enables societal development, promotes social solidarity and forgiveness among society members, as well as fosters a sense of mutual respect and understanding. In line with the guidelines of wise leadership, the Abu Dhabi community recognises the significance of cultural diversity, and enables them to open to various nationalities with varied cultures and backgrounds.
Diwali is one of the largest festivals celebrated in India, and it is a time for family and friends to get together and exchange gifts expressing their solidarity. The participation of DCD in this celebration reflects its dedication to strengthening the spirit of community interaction and brotherly relations, as well as promoting community harmony. The participation aims at strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a sanctuary of peace, social collaboration, forgiveness, and brotherly relations regionally and internationally.