Dubai Gurudwara holds interfaith iftar

The sound of the adhan (call to prayer) for maghrib prayers echoed through the walls of the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara in Jebel Ali, bringing together people of diverse faiths as they assembled to end their fast at the Sikh temple in Dubai.

Reflecting the principles of religious freedom, tolerance, and harmonious coexistence cherished by the UAE, more than 250 individuals participated in the yearly interfaith iftar hosted at the Gurudwara on Thursday.

Narrating the backstory of how this interfaith iftar started, Bubbles Kandhari, Vice-Chairperson of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, Dubai, said, “We had already started the interfaith Conference in 2012, which is 12 years now. That’s when we first realised there are so many communities and nationalities here. Therefore, we started with this. But when we started, people were a bit apprehensive, as is the case with all new beginnings, but then we received massive appreciation, and now it's growing…from strength to strength. It’s more than 250 people today and we see people of all nationalities in this room. The camaraderie experienced during Ramadan is also the universal message across faiths.”

The iftar was attended by Sunjay Sudhir, Indian Ambassador to the UAE; Major General Ahmed Khalfan Al Mansoori from Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Mirza Al Sayegh, a prominent Emirati member and Former Diplomat, Venu Rajamony, Former Indian Ambassador; Mohammed Al Muhairi, Director, Community Development Authority (CDA) Dubai; as well as representatives from various diplomatic corps, faith leaders and members of various community.

Prominent Dubai-based businessmen were also part of the evening, including Kamal Vachani, Partner, Al Maya Group, who said, “It’s an inspiring and inclusive gathering celebrating unity and diversity. This interfaith iftar exemplifies the spirit of togetherness and mutual respect. It’s a commendable initiative embodying the values of tolerance, compassion, and solidarity.”