The first-ever Iran Fest took place at Dubai’s Expo City Exhibition Center with the presence of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Alireza Mahmoudi, Iran’s Consul General in Dubai. According to Emirati media, tens of thousands of Iranian residents and their families attended the event.
In his speech, Sheikh Nahyan praised the deep-rooted friendship between Iran and the UAE, built on cultural, family, and commercial ties. The festival brought together a wide range of diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Iranian community.
Organized by Emirates Loves in collaboration with Dubai Police, Iran Fest featured diverse programs, including live music, traditional dances, Iranian cuisine stalls, handicrafts, and art exhibitions. Renowned artists such as Homayoun Shajarian, Karzan Qasemi, and Ali Ghamsari also performed during the celebration.
To facilitate transportation, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) extended metro operating hours on Saturday, September 13, and deployed an extensive fleet of taxis and free shuttle buses around the venue.
Consul General Alireza Mahmoudi highlighted the long-standing presence of Iranians in the UAE, estimating the community at around 800,000 people. He expressed hope for further strengthening of economic, cultural, and consular relations between the two countries.
The UAE’s official news agency (WAM) described the event as not only a cultural festival but also a symbol of humanity’s brilliance through cultural coexistence, emphasizing its role in enhancing social ties between Iranians and Emiratis.
This cultural celebration is viewed as part of the broader process of easing tensions and boosting Tehran–Abu Dhabi engagement, following the revival of the Joint Economic Commission in April 2024 after nearly a decade, which underscored expanding trade and investment cooperation
