DUBAI: The Global Encounters Festival 2025 has officially opened in Dubai, with an inspiring ceremony at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) taking place on Sunday.
The event welcomed over 4,000 young participants from more than 50 countries, and is expected to draw over 25,000 visitors throughout its week-long celebration of arts, athletics, and cultural unity.
Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan inaugurated the Festival, which runs until July 27 at DWTC and several destinations across the city. Attendees included global dignitaries, notably Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Prince Aly Mohammed Aga Khan, reflecting the Festival’s international scope and prestige.
Global Encounters Festival 2025
Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, the Festival features a dynamic line-up of sports tournaments, artistic exhibitions, concerts, and immersive cultural activities.
In his keynote address, Sheikh Nahyan extended a warm welcome to participants, recognising the presence of Prince Aly and Prince Amyn Aga Khan, whose commitment to Islamic heritage and pluralism, he noted, would enrich the Festival.
“You have assembled in Dubai under our country’s welcoming Arab tent that has sheltered a peaceful and innovative population at this global crossroads,” he said. “This city and this country are showing the world that people from different nations, ethnicities, religions, and cultures can live and work together in peace and harmony.”
He credited the leadership of His Highness President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler of Abu Dhabi and President of UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, the vice president and prime minister of UAE, in fostering a society where the arts and sports act as powerful bridges of understanding.
Drawing on his past experience at the Jubilee Games 2016, Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the Festival’s continued growth and significance. “The Festival’s focus on arts and sports reminds us that accomplishment comes from effort and persistence,” he said, praising their role in promoting global friendship and peace.
He also applauded the hosts: “I congratulate the hosts of the Festival – the Prince Aga Khan Ismaili Council for the United Arab Emirates. They give us an opportunity to express our admiration for the strong commitment and success of the Ismaili Muslim community, under the leadership of the Aga Khan, to promote peace, tolerance, and understanding in the world.”
A lasting legacy of collaboration
In a video message, Aga Khan Prince Rahim Aga Khan expressed his gratitude to the UAE government for its enduring partnership and hospitality. He remarked: “To fulfil our potential as creatives or athletes is to realise a blessing. Sport and arts are not only beautiful, they have the unique power to build bridges.”
This partnership continues a longstanding engagement between the Ismaili Muslim community, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and the Gulf region, and reflects deep collaboration with both public and private sectors.
Driving Dubai’s global vision
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, noted the Festival’s alignment with Dubai’s future-ready agenda. “Youth development, talent mobility, and cross-border collaboration are essential drivers of long-term economic growth,” he said. “Events like these position Dubai as a global magnet for ideas, talent and innovation.”
The Festival complements the UAE’s Year of Community 2025, promoting values of inclusion, sustainability, and shared purpose across more than 200 represented nationalities.
Mahir Julfar, EVP at DWTC, said: “We are proud to host the Global Encounters Festival 2025 – a large-scale, purpose-driven event that reflects our enduring commitment to operational excellence and global collaboration. With over 25,000 visitors expected, DWTC is well-positioned to deliver a world-class experience.”
Celebrating cultural expression
“The Global Encounters Festival exemplifies the spirit of unity, service, and excellence that the Ismaili community aspires to worldwide,” said Malik Talib, Chair of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum (LIF).
He described the event as a platform where young people can share their talents, deepen cross-border friendships, and reaffirm their commitment to building better societies. “This is more than an event. It’s a living example of what’s possible when young people from around the world come together with purpose,” he added.
“Dubai, with its visionary leadership and unmatched cultural energy, is the ideal home for this global celebration,” Talib concluded.
Sustainability at its core
In keeping with global environmental goals, the Festival has adopted strong sustainability practices. From electric rideshares to zero-waste venues, it aims to lead by example.
Central to this is the ‘Roots for Change’ campaign, where thousands of participants have pledged to plant one million trees globally. This initiative supports the Net Zero 2030 targets and reflects the Festival’s enduring commitment to climate action and environmental stewardship.
