UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has extended warm greetings to Orthodox Christians in the UAE and around the world on the occasion of Orthodox Christmas, wishing peace, unity, and togetherness.
In a message marking the religious holiday, Sheikh Mohamed conveyed his best wishes to Orthodox Christian communities, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to the values of coexistence, mutual respect, and harmony among different faiths and cultures. Orthodox Christmas is observed by millions of Christians globally, including communities across the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia.
The message reflects the UAE leadership’s continued emphasis on promoting interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence, principles that have become central to the country’s social and cultural identity. The UAE is home to a diverse population representing hundreds of nationalities and religious traditions, with Christian communities forming an integral part of the nation’s social fabric.
Over the years, the UAE has supported religious freedom through initiatives that encourage understanding and tolerance, including the establishment of places of worship for different faiths and the promotion of cultural exchange. Observances such as Orthodox Christmas are recognised as important moments to reinforce shared values of compassion, solidarity, and unity.
Orthodox Christmas, celebrated on January 7 by many Eastern Orthodox churches, follows the Julian calendar and commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. The occasion is typically marked by church services, family gatherings, and charitable acts, with an emphasis on peace and goodwill.
Sheikh Mohamed’s message comes amid continued global calls for dialogue and cooperation across cultures and religions. By acknowledging Orthodox Christmas, the UAE leadership highlights the importance of inclusivity and mutual respect in an increasingly interconnected world.
For Orthodox Christians living in the UAE, the message serves as a reaffirmation of their place within the country’s multicultural society. As communities gather to mark the occasion, the President’s greetings underscore a broader message of unity and shared humanity that extends beyond borders and beliefs.
