DUBAI: To welcome the New Year with enthusiasm and optimism, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai organized large-scale New Year celebrations for the workforce across the emirate, in collaboration with the Dubai Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs. The two-day event reflected the practical implementation of the UAE’s “Year of Community” initiative.
Tens of thousands of workers from various nationalities took part in the celebrations, turning the event into a vibrant display of joy, unity and cultural harmony. The main venue in Al Quoz featured performances by Bollywood stars, live music by popular bands, energetic shows by international dance troupes and traditional folk arts representing different countries.
Bollywood actresses Zareen Khan, Poonam Pandey, Aneri Vajani and Tanya Desai appeared at the event, while singers Sneha Upadhyay and Ankush Bhardwaj entertained the audience. DJ Tasya Stepanova’s performance further added to the festive atmosphere, making New Year’s Eve a memorable cultural celebration for participants.
A major highlight of the event was the distribution of prizes worth more than AED 500,000 through lucky draws. The prizes included cars, gold coins, gold bars, mobile phones and travel tickets. To ensure maximum participation, online access was also provided for workers unable to attend in person. Through the Blue Connect application, live streaming and digital platforms, workers followed the programs and participated in prize draws remotely.
In addition to Al Quoz, New Year celebrations were held at several labour accommodations in Jebel Ali and Muhaisnah. At the main venue alone, more than 20,000 workers from countries including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and several African nations participated. The celebrations began at 6:00 pm on December 31 and continued until midnight. Overall participation, both on-site and online, exceeded 50,000, according to GDRFA Dubai.
Senior officials of GDRFA Dubai and representatives of sponsoring organizations attended the event. Officials noted that this marked the third consecutive year of organizing large-scale New Year celebrations for the workforce. GDRFA Dubai Director General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri said the initiative symbolized respect and appreciation for the workforce that has played a vital role in Dubai’s development.
Workers were able to register free of charge to participate in all activities and prize draws. Comprehensive security and logistical arrangements were ensured through coordination among Dubai Police, Civil Defense, ambulance services, Dubai Municipality and volunteers.
The celebrations were widely seen as a reflection of care, respect and recognition for Dubai’s hardworking workforce, reinforcing the emirate’s humanitarian values and community-focused vision.
