Pakistani expats in Sharjah opt for low-key New Year celebrations amid Gaza conflict – News

In a gesture of solidarity with the people of Gaza amid the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, Pakistani expatriates in Sharjah will forego their usual New Year celebrations. Instead, they plan to ring in the New Year with reverence and solidarity, supporting those affected by war. The decision by Sharjah and Pakistan to mute the celebrations is deeply felt within the Sharjah community.

The ban on New Year celebrations is a gesture to support the people of Gaza during these difficult times. The conflict and escalating tensions between Hamas and Israel have led nations and communities around the world to express their support and empathy.

speaking to Khaleej TimesSeveral Pakistani expatriates residing in Sharjah shared their views on the decision.

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Asim Khurram, a long-time resident of Al Nahda, said: “It is a difficult time for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. Ringing in the New Year with celebrations may seem insignificant compared to the challenges you are facing. Silencing the celebration is a collective way to show solidarity and empathy,” Khurrram said.

“We have not planned anything nor do any of us have any intention of holding any type of celebration, not even a dinner. It will be a normal night for us,” Khurram said.

There will be no New Year fireworks in Sharjah this New Year’s Eve. This decision aligns with the recent trend of downplaying the festivities as a show of solidarity with Palestinians, especially amid increased calls for an end to hostilities in Gaza.

Sheraz Hassan Raza, a chartered accountant and financial consultant at Insight Sourcing LLC, said they have been muting all the celebrations. “We have stopped our celebrations and simply pray for the people who are oppressed in this world. All we pray to the Almighty is to protect the oppressed and let peace prevail throughout the world,” Raza said.

“The new year has been a normal day for us and not something special. But this year, all we can do is pray for the children and families of Gaza,” Raza said.

For Naveed Abid, cybersecurity manager at a real estate developer, spending time with family is the best activity to welcome the New Year. “I have been following the number of hostilities since the war broke out. My heart goes out to the victims who are not involved in any way. In this situation, I cannot think of any celebration,” Ahmed said.

Rizwan Malik, a business owner in Sharjah, said silencing such celebrations shows how people contribute to peace. “It is a welcome move by both Pakistan and Sharjah, and shows how the countries can contribute to peace in the world. Banning celebrations may be a small step, but it sends a message,” Malik said.

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