Farhan Saeed to headline 79th Jashn-e-Azaadi Pakistan in Dubai
Expo City to host UAE’s largest Pakistani community gathering
DUBAI – Pakistani singer and actor Farhan Saeed will headline this year's 79th Jashn-e-Azaadi Pakistan celebrations in Dubai, joining a star-studded line-up that will take centre stage during one of the UAE's biggest annual gatherings of the Pakistani community.
Organised by Emirates Loves Pakistan in collaboration with the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD), the free-to-attend festival will be held on Sunday, August 9, at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, with festivities beginning at 11am.
The event marks the third consecutive year that Emirates Loves Pakistan has hosted what it describes as the largest gathering of Pakistanis in the UAE.
Star performers
Joining Farhan Saeed on stage will be celebrated folk singer Mai Dhai and young musical sensation Hadia Hashmi, with organisers promising appearances by many more artists throughout the day.
The entertainment programme will feature live music alongside cultural performances celebrating Pakistan's rich heritage. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Pakistani cuisine, family-friendly activities and interactive attractions spread across the South Halls of the Dubai Exhibition Centre.
Organisers have invited residents from across the UAE to register in advance, with entry remaining free for all visitors.
Jashn-e-Azaadi Pakistan
Jashn-e-Azaadi Pakistan has rapidly grown into one of Dubai's flagship community events.
Last year's celebration attracted more than 60,000 registered visitors after moving to the larger Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City. The 2025 edition featured senior UAE and Pakistani officials, including Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Pakistan's Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi.
The event also brought together leading Pakistani personalities, cultural performances, traditional food stalls and community awards, reflecting the close relationship between Pakistan and the UAE.
A family festival
This year's festival will once again offer a full day of entertainment, combining live concerts with cultural showcases, regional traditions and food experiences designed for visitors of all ages. The celebration is expected to attract thousands of residents eager to mark Pakistan's 79th Independence Day.
Registration is open through the official Emirates Loves Pakistan platform, with organisers encouraging attendees to secure their free entry ahead of the event.