Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Oct 4: In a powerful reaffirmation of the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to interfaith harmony and cultural inclusivity, Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development (DCD), paid a special visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi earlier this week.
Accompanied by a delegation of senior officials, Al Khaili’s visit underscored the UAE's dedication to fostering peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Swami Brahmaviharidas, who led an insightful tour of the Mandir while sharing its broader vision centered on love, unity, and peace. The discussions throughout the visit highlighted the UAE’s enduring values of tolerance, interfaith dialogue, and social harmony—principles that have firmly established the country as a global exemplar of peaceful multiculturalism.
During the visit, Swami Brahmaviharidas expressed heartfelt gratitude to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his unwavering support and visionary guidance that made the Mandir possible. He also spoke about the upcoming phases of the Mandir's development and its expanding role in fostering mutual respect and understanding among communities from all walks of life.
Chairman Al Khaili lauded the Mandir as a "symbol of unity" and commended its role in promoting shared human values. He and the DCD delegation recognized the Mandir’s significant contribution to enhancing social cohesion and supporting the UAE’s mission of tolerance and inclusion.
This landmark visit represents a significant step in strengthening collaboration between religious institutions and government bodies in the UAE, further embedding interfaith respect into the nation's multicultural identity.
Adding to this ongoing dialogue, just last month, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir with his son, Ghanim Bin Sulayem. The pair spent nearly two hours at the Mandir, engaging deeply with its mission and marveling at its spiritual and architectural beauty.
Swami Brahmaviharidas extended his heartfelt thanks to Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem for his longstanding support, especially during critical phases of the Mandir’s construction. From assisting with the transportation of sacred stones during the COVID-19 pandemic to advocating for sustainability efforts, Sultan bin Sulayem’s contributions were instrumental in the Mandir’s journey.
Reflecting on the transformation of the site, Sultan bin Sulayem shared, “I am honoured that we came. I am honoured that we participated in a small part of this amazing creation. Seeing what I saw today is so different from last time. This place is special because even the selection of its location was inspired. His Highness knew this would be the best place.”
Together, these visits by UAE leaders highlight the Mandir’s growing significance not just as a place of worship, but as a beacon of shared humanity—uniting people across cultures, faiths, and nations.