The Singaporean community in the UAE celebrated the island nation’s National Day on Friday at the Movenpick hotel, to mark the 42nd anniversary of Singapore’s independence.
Mr. Dileep Nair, Consul General to Singapore warmly welcomed over 400 guests from UAE’s Singaporean community at a special evening gathering where signature Singaporean dishes and refreshments were served.
Key representatives from the Singapore Tourism Board were also in attendance, including Mr. Ke-Wei Peh, STB’s Area Director for the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
The event kicked off with a speech from Mr. Nair, followed by a broadcast of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s Singapore National Day message. Guests then enjoyed a buffet dinner where authentic Singaporean cuisine was served. A draw for an exclusive trip to Singapore ended the memorable evening.
“We were delighted to host a strong number of guests from the local Singaporean community who made this year’s National Day celebration an unforgettable event. The occasion commemorated our roots and heritage and offered guests a taste of true Singaporean hospitality,” said Mr. Dileep Nair, Consul General of Singapore in Dubai.
As part of the island-nation’s growing ties with the UAE, Singapore has emerged as a popular holiday destination for local residents and nationals. As the largest tourism market for Singapore in the Middle East, a growing number of travellers from the UAE are discovering the splendour of Singapore.
With over 800 Singaporeans and 200 Singapore companies registered in the UAE, Singapore’s growing local presence is underpinned by the close bi-lateral relations formed between the two nations over the past decade.
The Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore and Raffles International Schools L.L.C were the major sponsors for the event. Some of the Co Sponsors included the Singapore Tourism Board, Standard Chartered Bank, Movenpick Hotel Bur Dubai, Noodle Bowl, and Etihad Airways.
