The Global Encounters Festival 2025 wrapped up in Dubai on July 27, uniting 4,000+ youth from over 50 countries through arts, sports, and sustainability. Held at Dubai World Trade Centre, the week-long event celebrated diversity, global unity, and community engagement through vibrant cultural experiences.
The curtain has officially closed on the highly anticipated Global Encounters Festival 2025, a vibrant international celebration of culture, art, sports, and community spirit hosted by the Ismaili community. Held at Dubai World Trade Centre and spanning from July 20 to July 27, the week-long festival brought together over 4,000 young artists and athletes and more than 25,000 visitors from across 50+ countries, all united under a shared commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global harmony.
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Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the festival served as a testament to Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for cultural dialogue and youth engagement.
The Global Encounters Festival seamlessly fused tradition with innovation. It featured a hybrid schedule combining live performances, athletic competitions, immersive exhibits, and interactive learning experiences. Events spanned across multiple venues, offering a dynamic environment where talent, creativity, and purpose came together.
The festival’s flagship programs, Jubilee Arts and Jubilee Games, formed the heart of the experience:
Both programs aimed to empower youth through self-expression, discipline, and leadership, while encouraging participants to serve as ambassadors of peace and progress.
More than just a cultural event, the Global Encounters Festival was built around a powerful theme of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. In alignment with the Aga Khan Development Network’s “Net Zero 2030” vision, attendees took part in tree planting drives and environmental workshops. These efforts were part of the Roots for Change initiative, underscoring the community’s commitment to leaving a positive impact on the planet.
Additionally, the festival emphasized ethical practices, respect for local culture, and public awareness, with clear guidance offered to international visitors on customs, etiquette, and appropriate conduct in public spaces.
Recognizing the scale of the event and its international participation, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) extended Dubai Metro operating hours until 1:00 AM throughout the festival period. This move ensured that guests could travel conveniently and safely across the city after attending evening events and performances.
During the opening ceremony, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan highlighted the significance of the festival, stating that such platforms foster understanding, compassion, and mutual respect among cultures and nations.
Malik Talib, Chair of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum, echoed the sentiment, noting that the festival’s mission is to nurture young minds, connect communities, and strengthen global bonds through the powerful mediums of sport and art.
A deeply moving moment came through the symbolic Faanoos Lantern Ceremony, where youth participants carried glowing lanterns as a beacon of hope, unity, and a brighter future.
With thousands of volunteers, organizers, and performers working in sync, the Global Encounters Festival stood as a brilliant example of collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. From energetic dance shows and gallery-style art exhibits to thrilling sporting finals and thought-provoking panel discussions, every moment reflected the diversity and vibrancy of the global Ismaili community.
Young participants didn’t just perform or compete—they formed lifelong friendships, shared stories, and left Dubai with a stronger sense of purpose and identity.
source
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/
