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As India prepares to celebrate its 76th Republic Day this Sunday, the spirit of patriotism and festivity is set to resonate across the UAE, home to over 4 million Indian expatriates. This year marks a historic milestone, with the largest number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) residing in the country’s history.

Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, highlighted the strong ties between the two nations. "The UAE government and leadership have been instrumental in ensuring the welfare of more than 4 million Indians who find their second home here,” he said in an interview with Gulf News.

Ambassador Sudhir emphasized the significance of people-to-people connections in strengthening the bond between India and the UAE. He noted the increasing number of Indians visiting the UAE, which reached 4.5 million on tourist visas in 2023. Similarly, the introduction of visa-on-arrival and e-visa facilities has encouraged more Emiratis to travel to India.

Flag Hoisting and Cultural Celebrations

Indian diplomatic missions in the UAE are leading the Republic Day celebrations. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Indian Consulate in Dubai will host official flag hoisting ceremonies, open to Indian nationals and friends of India.

• Abu Dhabi: Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir will unfurl the Indian tricolour at 8:00 AM.
• Dubai: Consul General Satish Kumar Sivan will raise the flag at 7:00 AM.

Following the ceremonies, the Republic Day message from Indian President Droupadi Murmu will be read. The events will feature cultural performances by community members, including students, celebrating India’s rich heritage and unity.

Community Engagement

A mega blood donation camp is also scheduled on Sunday, organized in partnership with FOI Events. The consulate is actively joining hands with community members to emphasize the spirit of giving and solidarity.

The Consul General will attend a grand celebration at The Indian High School in Oud Metha, where thousands of students will participate in patriotic festivities. Other diplomats will join flag hoisting ceremonies organized by Indian associations in the northern Emirates.

Celebrations in Schools

Several Indian schools in the UAE have planned events to mark the occasion. "Since Republic Day falls on a holiday, our students are holding themed assemblies on Friday, with another celebration on Monday," said Zubair Ahmad, COO of Springdale School in Dubai.

As the Indian diaspora unites to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950, the celebrations in the UAE reflect the enduring friendship and cultural exchange between the two nations.

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