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Dubai: Residents of Dubai have welcomed the government's decision to exercise restraint and welcome the new year with sombreness as their brethren in Palestine is enduring worst forms of violence and killings at the hands of the Israeli military.
People who spoke to Gulf News said His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has set an example for other Arab leaders by ordering the cancellations of all forms of New Year celebrations.
Shaikh Mohammad on Tuesday ordered the celebrations to be cancelled as an act of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Arige Jomaa, a Lebanese Canadian who resides in Dubai said it was a laudable decision by Shaikh Mohammad.
"Hundreds are dying in Palestine and nobody is doing anything to stop the violence. Other leader are only issuing condemnations and making mere statements. But Shaikh Mohammad has urged for some action. I wish more leaders would follow suit and take his example," said Arige, 44.
According to her, not having a party at the new year's eve is not the end of the world and it is not in good spirit to celebrate when there is lot of misery around you.
Vipin Krishnadas, a 28-year-old Computer Graphics artist said he felt the same way when hundreds were affected by Tsunami a few years ago.
Like tsunami
"Many of my neighbours were affected by the natural disaters and there were relief camps in my neighbourhood. None of us celebrated the new year that year because we are all human and we have social responsibility," Vipin said.
Agreeing with the government's decision, Vipin said it does not come as surprise to him as the Arab world is justified to express their sentiments in such a strong way.
Hassan Ali Moosa, from Palestine said he does not see any reason to celebrate the new year when his country is under attack. "I feel helpless that my country men are suffering at the hands of a callous enemy and no one is doing any thing about it. This decision by Shaikh Mohammad, I am hoping, should send strong signals to the world community, and shake them from their slumber," said an enraged Moosa who works for the government sector.
Antoine Taouil, a Syrian national who works in the real estate industry said he absolutely welcomes Shaikh Mohammad's decision. "What is happening in Gaza is horrible and I really feel sorry for the people who are suffering. I think it is wise and noble decision to cancel the celebrations," said Antoine, 34.
Victoria Petrova, 25, a beauty therapist from Russia said she feels bad about what is happening in Palestine, especially with hundreds of children and women being killed in attacks.
"Maybe some people are disappointed because there are no celebrations. But I think, we should understand the sentiments of people who are affected and then it would not be so difficult to do away with the celebrations.
Moosa Esmail, 50 who works for the Dubai Aluminum Company said Dubai and its leader has always taken the lead in issues concerning the Arab world and the current decision is another assertion of the same. "I think it is perfectly alright to cancel public parties and fireworks etc when hundreds are being killed in Gaza. It is a very noble and peaceful way of showing our solidarity for the people of Palestine."
dubai nights cancelled
In line with the orders issued by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI) has cancelled its celebrations in solidarity with Palestinians.
The DMI announced its cancellation of the "Dubai Nights" festivities that were to be celebrated from January 2-4 to mark the third anniversary of Shaikh Mohammad's accession to power as Ruler of Dubai.
Ahmad Abdullah Al Shaikh, Managing Director of the DMI, said the move is in line with Shaikh Mohammad's instructions in sympathy and solidarity with the Palestinian brethrens who endure ongoing Israeli aggression that targets children, women and the elderly.
The DMI had earlier announced organising Arab music concerts where leading Arab stars were to take part, to celebrate Shaikh Mohammad's third accession anniversary.
Donations
The UAE Red Crescent Society has opened a Gaza campaign to collect money and items such as canned food, cloths and blankets.
People can also donate at stalls set up at Emirates Mall; Wafa City; Union Co-operative Society in Safa, Aweer, Twar and Al Hamriya; and at their offices in Al Twar, Dubai.
Food that can be preserved for long periods such as rice and milk powder and new cloths will only be accepted by the Red Crescent.
Companies can also contact the Red Crescent to set up their own collection stalls for their employers.
They have also set up an account for the people in Gaza through the Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Account number 20000417 and Dubai Islamic Bank account number 03520534675401. Items can be collected from residence upon calling 800 733; a representative will call back within 48 hours to arrange for a pick up of donated items.
- Wam and Staff Report
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