UAE Communities Join Tolerance Walk Led by Sheikh Nahyan

The United Arab Emirates once again demonstrated its strong commitment to unity and peaceful living through the symbolic event known as the “Tolerance Walk to Mars.” This special walk was led by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. Around 3,000 people from different communities living across the UAE joined the walk, showing their support for the values of acceptance, respect, and harmony.

The event took place at Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi. It was organised by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence in cooperation with the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026. The walk was part of the public activities of the National Festival of Tolerance, which entered its third day with this major gathering. The festival aims to bring all people together, highlight the importance of kindness and respect, and encourage everyone to celebrate the UAE’s diverse society.

Sheikh Nahyan walked alongside many distinguished guests and leaders. One of the key guests was Zhang Yiming, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China. This year, China is the “Guest of Honour” at the festival, making the ambassador’s participation meaningful. Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Rugby Federation, also joined the march. In addition, Afra Al Sabri, Director-General of the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, took part in the walk.

Many other important figures participated as well, including federal and local officials, religious leaders, sports and education representatives, cultural personalities, ambassadors from friendly countries, senior citizens, and people of determination. Their presence showed that the message of tolerance reaches across all groups and touches every part of life in the UAE.

During the event, there were several symbolic moments that added meaning to the walk. On the sidelines of the march, Sheikh Nahyan planted a special tree that was brought from China. In return, the Chinese Ambassador, Zhang Yiming, planted a Ghaf tree, which is the national tree of the UAE. These trees were planted at the front section of the Garden of Tolerance. The ceremony was attended by Carolin Konther López, the Ambassador of Paraguay to the UAE. The tree planting symbolised friendship, cooperation, and the bond between the two nations.

Another important moment happened when Sheikh Nahyan and the Chinese Ambassador unveiled a commemorative plaque. This plaque was placed in the Gardens of Tolerance to mark the 10th anniversary of Umm Al Emarat Park. The unveiling highlighted the park’s role as a place that brings people together and supports events that promote peace and unity.

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Nahyan said that the Tolerance Walk represents the commitment of all people in the UAE to uphold the values of acceptance and peaceful coexistence. He expressed his happiness at seeing so many people participate, saying everyone “played a wonderful symphony in all languages and colours.” This phrase showed how diverse groups came together in harmony.

He praised the involvement of the Abu Dhabi 2026 Masters Games, saying that their participation encourages sports and healthy living for all. He also said the event welcomed people from every part of UAE society without exception and demonstrated the true meaning of tolerance.

Sheikh Nahyan explained that the strong public participation reflects the long-standing journey of tolerance that the UAE has followed. He said the UAE has succeeded in bringing people together from many different cultures and backgrounds. This harmony, he added, is a real example for the world.

He also honoured the values taught by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. Sheikh Zayed built the country on the principles of tolerance, coexistence, understanding, and respect. These values continue to guide the UAE and shape its society today.

The Tolerance Walk to Mars ended with a clear message: the UAE is a place where everyone can live together peacefully, where differences are respected, and where unity is celebrated. The event highlighted that tolerance is not just a word in the UAE—it is a way of life.