Abu dhabi: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the 7th National Festival of Tolerance and Coexistence themed "Hand In Hand". Organised by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, the festival is set to run until 18th November 2025 at Umm Al Emarat Park.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the UAE's good fortune under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has fostered a society rooted in peace, tolerance, and prosperity. Expressing gratitude for such leadership, Sheikh Nahyan described the festival as a dynamic representation of human fraternity and coexistence.
The opening ceremony, attended by senior officials and global ambassadors including China's Ambassador Zhang Yiming, featured diverse performances. The Community Voices of Tolerance Choir, comprising members from 39 nationalities, performed "Zayed's Tree". A documentary titled "Hand in Hand" was also showcased, reflecting the festival's slogan and the UAE Year of Community.
The ceremony included cultural performances such as "The Charm of China" by a Chinese troupe, a presentation by GEMS Cambridge International School students, a Kung Fu display, a Thai performance, a vocal piece by America's Got Talent star Peter Rosalita, and a Palestinian dabke. Sheikh Nahyan and guests also toured the festival pavilions.
Sheikh Nahyan, in his address, announced the launch of the festival's activities, developed in collaboration with federal and local entities and involving embassies of various nations. He emphasized the festival's role in reflecting shared beliefs and human unity. He welcomed China as the Guest of Honour, noting the bilateral relationship as a testament to mutual respect and collaboration.
During the UAE Year of Community, the festival aims to actualize the "Hand in Hand" slogan, embodying the nation's spirit of unity. Sheikh Nahyan remarked on the significance of Umm Al Emarat Park as a venue, symbolizing shared stories and cultural convergence.
Sheikh Nahyan paid tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the enduring legacy of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. He highlighted the Garden of Tolerance within the park, symbolizing global diversity, and announced the addition of new flora from China.
On the upcoming International Day for Tolerance, a Tolerance Walk will unite families, students, and participants from the Abu Dhabi 2026 Masters Games. Sheikh Nahyan invited the public to engage in the festival, celebrating unity and shared humanity.
Ambassador Zhang Yiming expressed gratitude for China's role as Guest of Honour, emphasizing the festival's significance in fostering global cooperation and cultural exchange. He acknowledged the UAE's hospitality and support, pledging continued efforts to strengthen China-UAE relations.
Zhang noted the festival as a testament to the UAE's commitment to diversity and harmony. He shared sentiments from the Chinese community in the UAE, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and inclusiveness provided by the country. The Chinese cultural display at the festival aims to showcase Eastern cultural richness and foster cultural appreciation.