• 24 April 2010

Under the patronage of the Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey, Children’s Day celebrations held yesterday at the auditorium of the American University in Dubai saw an overwhelming turnout with an approximate 1000 people taking part in the day of revelry.

Visitors to the event were treated to a feast of formidable musical and folklore performances by talented children representing several International schools based in Dubai. The audience was taken on an inspiring journey showcasing children’s artistic flair from over 80 countries, in addition to the visiting Trabzon Folk Dance Group, an internationally renowned Turkish Children’s Folklore group that flew all the way from their home country, courtesy of Turkish Airlines, to offer an unforgettable taste of authentic Turkish folklore.

The whole concept of these celebrations originates from Turkey where every year, 23 of April is celebrated as Children’s Day and is considered as a national holiday. 90 years ago, the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, dedicated this special day to children, emphasizing that they are the future of the new nation.

The Consul General of Turkey in Dubai, Mr. Umit Yalcin said “We are very touched to have received such an impressive turnout for this special day to celebrate the future of humanity: our sons and daughters. The uniqueness and cultural diversity of this remarkable city was truly evident throughout the day in the form of dance and song.”

Proceeds from this event, which totaled to AED 60.000, were donated to the event’s official charity partner, Dubai Cares, the UAE-based philanthropic establishment   launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Its aim is to improve children’s access to primary education in developing countries.  

23 April Children’s Day celebrations in Dubai were made possible thanks to generous contributions of many sponsors of which Turkish Airlines, PINAR Food and Beverage Group, and the American University in Dubai were the Platinum Sponsors. The event was organized by the ‘Sultans of Dubai’, a group of Turkish Expat women living in UAE in cooperation with the Turkish Business Council.

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