Watch: Sudanese expats bring culture, colour and cuisine to Expo City Dubai

Dubai: Thousands of members of the Sudanese expat community showcased their rich cultural diversity during a vibrant Gate of Sudan Festival held at Expo City Dubai on Saturday.

With an array of traditional food, attire, artwork, heritage exhibits, markets, songs and more, the community proudly displayed its Sudanese identity with élan.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, noted that such events foster intercultural dialogue and harmony.

“We come together to celebrate the great people of Sudan who, despite challenges, remain strong in their pursuit of unity,” Sheikh Nahyan said in his address.

“We also honour Sudanese residents in the UAE for their valuable contributions to our nation’s development and their role in fostering enduring ties between the two countries.”

Showcasing to the world

Meanwhile, Dr El Amin Gafar Ahmed Taha, Head of the Sudanese Community in the UAE, highlighted Sudan’s rich and diverse culture, languages, and tribes.

“We are showing the world what Sudan has in its history and culture. So, we’ve brought elements from the south, east, west, and central regions of Sudan,” Dr Taha told Gulf News.

Several stalls set up by members of the expat business community promoted traditional food, clothing, and other products.

“Everything you find here reflects the true culture of Sudan. We are more than 300,000 Sudanese expats in the UAE,” Dr Taha noted.

Highlights of the evening included performances by renowned Sudanese singer Nancy Agag and the Marsimba Band, folkloric and cultural presentations by Dr Omar Al Amin, and traditional songs performed by Emirati artist Tareq Al Menhali.

Mohammed El Awad, an artist who exhibited his work at the event, said such community initiatives bring people closer.

“This event by Emirates Loves Sudan is amazing. It’s great to be part of something that brings people together. You even have Emiratis here. It’s all about building bridges.”