Pakistani expats in UAE celebrate 73rd Independence Day

The flag hoisting ceremony as part of the celebrations was held at the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai.

Pakistani expats in the UAE marked their country's 73rd Independence Day on August 14, with many planning to spend their day wearing flag colors and participating in community events celebrating their nation's birthday.

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Pakistani expats gather to celebrate Independence day at the embassy in Abu Dhabi. -Photos by Ryan Lim/Khaleej Times
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7:52 AM - Aug 14, 2019

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The flag hoisting ceremony as part of the celebrations was held at the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai.

The Pakistan Association in Dubai will also be holding a celebratory event in the evening - a cultural show, a live performance and singing national songs.

Expats who have been living out of their country for decades feel it's necessary to stay connected to their roots and celebrate days such as Pakistan's Independence Day.

Hena Khan, a Pakistani born and raised in the UAE, said: "We dress up in green and white, wear bangles, hang flags and also bake independence-themed cupcakes and distribute them. My parents started this tradition of celebration so we could remember our country and I am doing the same with my kids.

"Celebrating Independence Day demonstrates its extraordinary significance, which is freedom and reminds us of the sacrifices of our ancestors. It's important that our kids understand the meaning of freedom and learn about their roots. The celebration not only helps inoculate our culture but also our history."

Another expat, Sobia Hasnain, who has been living in the UAE for 11 years with her three kids and her husband, spends the day in Pakistan every year. "It's important that we remind ourselves and our next generations about the events and philosophy behind the creation of Pakistan, like the two-nation theory, Islam as the central binding force for all and Urdu as the connecting language between the people," she said.

Another expat in the UAE for 27 years, Ayesha Sohail, said: "It's very important to celebrate this day, especially for the younger generation who have been born and raised in the UAE. They need to understand where they come from and their customs.

I make sure that my kids wear Pakistan flag shirts and celebrate the day with our friends and family."