Expo City Dubai is buzzing with energy today as ‘UAE Loves Iraq 2025’ kicks off, transforming the venue into a hub of Iraqi culture and heritage. From traditional music and dance to art exhibitions, workshops, and authentic cuisine, the festival is offering visitors an immersive glimpse into Iraq’s rich history and vibrant present. Families, students, and culture enthusiasts have gathered in large numbers, celebrating a day that not only entertains but also strengthens the cultural and social bonds between the UAE and Iraq.
What is ‘UAE Loves Iraq 2025’?
‘UAE Loves Iraq 2025’ is a flagship cultural festival celebrating the rich and diverse heritage of Iraq, designed to promote arts, music, literature, cuisine, and traditional crafts. The event serves as a platform to highlight Iraq’s historical and cultural contributions to the Arab world, while fostering stronger ties between the UAE and Iraq in terms of cultural diplomacy, trade, and social exchange. Hosted at Expo City Dubai on Saturday, October 4, 2025, the festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors, including families, students, artists, and cultural enthusiasts from across the UAE. Attendees can immerse themselves in a full-day experience of Iraqi traditions, including curated exhibitions of contemporary and classical art, live performances of Iraqi music and dance, and interactive workshops showcasing traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and calligraphy. Food plays a central role in the festival, with stalls offering authentic Iraqi cuisine, from savory kebabs and masgouf (grilled fish) to traditional sweets like baklava and kleicha. Visitors will not only enjoy culinary delights but also gain insights into Iraq’s diverse cultural regions and historical influences through storytelling, demonstrations, and themed cultural corners.Event Highlights:
- Cultural Exhibitions: Explore exhibitions featuring Iraqi art, calligraphy, historical artifacts, and contemporary works. Learn about Iraq’s diverse cultural heritage and its influence across the Arab world.
- Live Performances: Enjoy performances by Iraqi musicians, singers, and traditional dancers. From classical Iraqi music to modern performances, the stage promises an engaging auditory and visual experience.
- Culinary Delights: Savor authentic Iraqi cuisine, including traditional dishes like kebabs, masgouf (grilled fish), and desserts like baklava and kleicha. Culinary stalls let attendees taste the diversity of Iraqi flavors.
- Workshops and Interactive Activities: Participate in hands-on workshops such as pottery, weaving, calligraphy, and traditional crafts. These activities allow visitors to experience Iraq’s artisanal traditions firsthand.
- Photo Zones and Cultural Corners: Unique photo zones and cultural corners let attendees capture memorable moments while learning about Iraqi traditions and customs.
Event location and essential details
- Venue: Expo City Dubai
- Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
- Time: 12:00 AM – 1:30 PM (for shuttle buses; event continues throughout the day)
- Entry: Free and open to all
Free shuttle service and convenient transportation
To ensure smooth travel for attendees, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is providing a free shuttle service.
- Shuttle Timing: 12:00 AM – 1:30 PM on October 4, 2025
- Pick-Up Locations: Designated parking areas at Expo City Dubai
- Additional Options: Extended parking is available, and taxis are on-site for easy access
Tips for Shuttle Users:
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to secure a spot.
- Follow RTA signage and staff instructions for smooth boarding.
- Check RTA social media channels for any updates or timing adjustments.
Event schedule and must-see experiences
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Shuttle Service | Designated Parking Areas |
| 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Cultural Exhibitions | Main Exhibition Hall |
| 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Music and Dance Performances | Outdoor Stage |
| 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Workshops & Interactive Activities | Workshop Tents |
| 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Closing Ceremony & Group Performances | Main Stage |
This festival is more than an entertainment event, it is a celebration of friendship, shared history, and cultural exchange between the UAE and Iraq. By bringing people together through music, art, food, and workshops, the event strengthens regional bonds, promotes understanding, and provides a platform for dialogue and appreciation of Iraqi culture in the UAE.It also demonstrates Dubai’s growing role as a hub for international cultural events, highlighting the city’s commitment to inclusive, educational, and family-friendly celebrations.