Watch: Free health check-ups, gifts at ‘carnival’ for blue-collar workers in Dubai

Dubai: Thousands of blue-collar workers of different nationalities had a ball during a community event in Dubai, where they received free health check-ups, gifts, food kits, and enjoyed lively entertainment and sports activities.

Titled the ‘Health Carnival for the Workforce’, the event was organised by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs — Dubai, in collaboration with the Pakistan Association Dubai.

Hussain Muhammad, Consul-General of Pakistan in Dubai, pointed out that the event, held during the ‘Year of Community’, aims to highlight and appreciate the role played by blue-collar workers in the progress of the UAE.

“The basic idea is to give back to the community here, especially the blue-collar workers,” Muhammad told Gulf News.

Hands in Unity

One of the main activities was the ‘Hands of Unity’ initiative, a symbolic attempt to break a Guinness World Record by forming the UAE flag using 25,000 handprints.

“This record attempt will be spread over the next few days. It will continue in other locations,” said Dr Faisel Ikram, President of the Pakistan Association Dubai.

Health Parade

As the health screenings progressed throughout the day, top officials led a ‘health parade’ to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of one’s health and well-being. There were several sports activities, including cricket and kabaddi, which were keenly contested. The main stage featured a range of live entertainment, including acrobatic dances and magic shows, all of which were enthusiastically enjoyed by the workers, who actively participated in the events.

Some families even flew in from abroad to take part in the event. Young Eshal Shaukat, with her sister Aneesha and their mother, arrived from Faisalabad, Pakistan, to join the ‘Hands of Unity’ initiative.

Lasting social impact

Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs — Dubai, highlighted that institutional success goes beyond service delivery.

“It’s about creating lasting social impact. The event is a reflection of our vision: one where people are the foundation of success and recognition is a national duty,” he said.

Meanwhile, Colonel Omar Matar Al Muzeina, Acting Assistant Director General for the Labour Relations Sector, noted: “This initiative is a true embodiment of the social responsibility of GDRFA Dubai, reflecting its deep commitment to enhancing happiness and quality of life in the community.”

Zahid Hassan, Secretary General of the Pakistan Association in Dubai, added that the event honours the tireless efforts of workers and reflects the UAE’s core values of compassion and tolerance.

“Our support stems from a deep belief that every worker deserves recognition and celebration,” Hassan said.