How to celebrate Indian, Pakistani Independence Day in Dubai

Tensions may have escalated between the two volatile neighbours this past week, but quiz the Indian and Pakistani expat communities in Dubai and the patriotic spirit is just as strongly intact as the bond of friendship between the two brethrens.

Even as Pakistan celebrated its 67th Independence Day on August 14, a day prior to India’s own day of freedom, the festivities across Dubai are far from over, with a special concert, comedy night and a friendly Indo-Pak cricket match, all bundled in to keep the flags flying high.

Emirates 24|7 brings you five ways to celebrate the Independence this weekend.

Flag hoisting at Indian Consulate

Keep that spirit flying high as your country’s flag, as the Indian Consulate of Dubai invites all its citizens to come and honour their nation’s freedom with the flag hoisting and a cultural programme on the consulate grounds.

The event kicks off at 8am and continues through the morning. Yes, this does mean that you get the morning off from work, but we are sure the boss may just look the other way for the love of your country.

Keralites of Dubai unite

The Kerala Muslim Culture Centre premises in Al Baraha on Thursday will be buzzing with celebrations with another flag hoisting ceremony at 9am.
Cultural activities for children below the age of 15 will start at 6pm at the KMCC Auditorium, including competitions, patriotic songs and look-a-like (of Freedom fighters/National Leaders) competition.

A public gathering will be held at 9p, Officials from Indian Consulate and other dignitaries will grace the occasion. For details call: 04 272 7773

Dine with your grandparents

Doesn’t matter whether you are Indian or Pakistani, as Claypot restaurant at Citymax Hotel, Bur Dubai is celebrating the 67th Independence Day with a delicious feast for the senses.

And if your folks or grandparents are above 67 years, they dine absolutely free

Indo-Pak cricket friendly

So what if the two neighbours have strained cricketing ties? We still have Dubai, a second home to expats from both countries that bring with them the love for this gentlemanly sport.

To celebrate the India and Pakistan Independent Days this year, 105.4 Radio Spice is hosting an Independence Day Cup on August 16 at United Pro Sports in Al Quoz, Dubai.

There will be under-18 and over-18 matches scheduled from 5pm onwards.

Come along with the family and cheer your country on in this battle on the cricket field.

Jashn-E-Pakistan

All roads will lead to the Sharjah Cricket Stadium from 8.30pm onwards on August 16, as a mega Jashn-E-Pakistan celebration commences with some top acts from the Asian nation.

Leading the entertainment for the evening will be singing sensation Abrar Ul Haq, who will be joined on stage with singers Karan Khan, Sitara Younus, Sara Raza Khan and Shazia Khusk.

Comedians Barkat Ali, Syed Hasan Al Zaidi, Said Rahman Sheno and Ismail Shahid will also be tickling many a funny bone.

And while you enjoy the show, kids can also have their own fun with game stalls, henna and face painting and a lucky draw.

Tickets are priced between Dh25 and Dh100. Call: 050 767 6236
 

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