The UAE is officially celebrating the values and meanings of tolerance in 2019, to establish its status as a global capital for tolerance and a nurturing environment for the diverse cultural backgrounds living and working peacefully side by side in the country.
The announcement from the UAE’s wise leadership of 2019 as the Year of Tolerance invited all people, organisations and government entities to accept the values of tolerance in all aspects of their lives, actions and activities. It presents an opportunity for the country to strengthen its role as a world model of harmony, respect and acceptance within a framework that formally supports and consolidates these progressive values.
The idea of tolerance is deeply rooted in the fabric of the culture, heritage and traditions of the UAE, a society that derives its priorities from a combination of its Islamic religion, centuries-old authentic Arab customs, as well as the teachings and wisdom of the nation’s blessed founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, consolidating the pillars of goodness on which the country was established.
The UAE has established itself as a bridge of communication between the peoples of the world and, since its establishment, has created an open, respectful environment that rejects extremism and promotes cultural tolerance.
Religion has been touted as a major reason for discord amongst the world’s peoples. Yet, in a highly significant start to the Year of Tolerance, the UAE warmly welcomed the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, in a historic, first ever papal visit to the Gulf region. The Pope arrived on Sunday 3 February for a three-day UAE Year of Tolerance event, which included the joint signing of a Human Fraternity Document with Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, which “invites all persons who have faith in God and faith in human fraternity to unite and work together”.
The country is home to over 200 nationalities, more than 40 churches of different Christian denominations, a Sikh temple and several Hindu temples. Construction of a major new Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi is underway and expected to be complete by 2020.
Simple yet symbolically strong, the leaves of the evergreen Ghaf form the official logo for the UAE Year of Tolerance. The Ghaf is the UAE’s national tree, a true survivor in the face of fiery temperatures, searing winds and harsh desert conditions. Even during long, dry periods, the Ghaf spreads out its lush green canopy, generously providing shelter and shade for all.
For thousands of years, people have gathered under Ghaf branches to discuss their views and debate daily matters. The tree is a symbol of tolerance and coexistence, long associated with the heritage and community approach of the country.
