United Arab Emirates visit

Sunday, 23 March 2008
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan welcomes Mawlana Hazar Imam at Abu Dhabi airport, upon his arrival in the United Arab Emirates. Photo: Gary Otte
Mawlana Hazar Imam commenced his Golden Jubilee visit to the United Arab Emirates in the country’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Upon his arrival, Mawlana Hazar Imam was received by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and leaders of the UAE Jamat. Shortly after his arrival, Princess Zahra and Prince Rahim also arrived in Abu Dhabi for this visit, and were welcomed by senior government officials and leaders of the Jamat.
Meanwhile, in Dubai, in joyous anticipation of Hazar Imam’s arrival, Golden Jubilee celebrations have commenced with social and cultural activities taking place every evening. Thousands of members of the international Jamat have arrived and are enjoying the warm hospitality of the Gulf Jamat, while volunteers continue to work behind the scenes, laying the groundwork for the Golden Jubilee Darbar and the Opening Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre Dubai.
Additional photographs are available in the gallery. Further details on the visit, including pictures and video clips, will continue to be posted on http://www.theismaili.org/.
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UAE Jamat prepares in anticipation of Golden Jubilee visit

UAE Jamati Leadership in discussion with volunteers. Photo: Ally`s Studio

With only days remaining before Mawlana Hazar Imam’s expected arrival in the United Arab Emirates, there is an of excitement and anticipation as the Jamat prepares for an historic visit. Golden Jubilee National Task Forces are busy planning and coordinating the visit. As the pressure builds and hundreds of volunteers work feverishly into the early hours of the morning, a Task Force leader notes, “It is a privilege to be working for this Golden Jubilee visit... a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Youth practicing dance performances for the celebrations. Photo: Ally`s Studio

In the Garhoud Activity Centre, children are rehearsing for a Youth Celebration performance. “Everything is happening so fast,” says one young member excitedly. She is preparing a dance set to a song in which each verse is composed in a different language. “We’ve been practising every night until 11:00 PM!”

This historic event is expected to draw thousands of international visitors from Jamats around the world. A volunteer with the Ismaili Council reflects on the magnitude of the occasion: “This is an opportunity where everyone — man, woman, child, young and old — can take part in his or her capacity ... we have the opportunity to host the worldwide Jamat here.” In addition to the Golden Jubilee Darbar, preparations are being made for the planned opening of the Ismaili Centre Dubai — the first such centre in the Middle East.

Further details on the visit, including pictures and video clips, will be posted on http://www.theismaili.org/

Ismailiworld - Be Unite
ismailiworld@gmail.com