DUBAI, Nov. 15, 2025 (WAM) — The United Arab Emirates, home to more than 200 nationalities living in harmony, has long stood as a global model of tolerance and coexistence. Drawing strength from this spirit, the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD), the world’s largest community center for overseas Pakistanis, has grown into a leading beacon of philanthropy, service, and inclusion.
Speaking with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the International Day of Tolerance, PAD President Dr. Faisal Ikram said the organization’s mission is deeply rooted in the UAE’s humanitarian values. “Through our work, we aim to serve humanity beyond borders, reflecting the UAE’s message of compassion and mutual respect,” he said.
Dr. Ikram noted that PAD operates on land gifted by the late H.H. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, a symbolic gesture underscoring the historic friendship between the UAE and Pakistan. Inspired by the UAE’s inclusive vision, PAD provides services not only to Pakistanis but to people from diverse nationalities and backgrounds. “Our work is not based on nationality but on humanity,” he said. “PAD is an inclusive platform open to everyone, regardless of faith or background.”
At the center of PAD’s mission is the Pakistan Medical Centre (PMC), a non-profit healthcare facility built on compassion and service. Since opening in October 2020, PMC has impacted more than 151,400 lives, treating patients from over 92 nationalities across 37 medical specialties. Around 50 volunteer doctors contribute their services, with 75 percent of patients receiving welfare-based or subsidized care. To date, the facility has provided more than AED 25.5 million worth of healthcare support.
“Through the Pakistan Medical Centre, we serve people from all walks of life,” Dr. Ikram said. “It reflects the UAE’s spirit of generosity.”
PAD continues to receive support from various UAE institutions. The Community Development Authority (CDA) remains a strong partner, while the Dubai Department of Finance has granted fee exemptions for PMC. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has also issued special volunteer licenses for doctors serving at the center, strengthening the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian collaboration.
Highlighting PAD’s broader engagement, Dr. Ikram recalled the Association’s Guinness World Record achievement during the UAE’s Year of Community. PAD created a massive human flag using 24,400 colorful handprints contributed by participants from more than 100 nationalities, symbolizing the UAE’s enduring spirit of diversity and unity.
— Story by Maryam Tariq
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