News DeskDubai: Under the glow of Ramadan lanterns, Pakistani laborers gathered at the Al Ghurair Workers Camp in Sonapur on Sunday evening for a special Iftar Dinner. Organized by the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai in partnership with the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) and Al Ansari Exchange, the event brought together dozens of workers who broke their fast with dates, juice and hot meals in a spirit of community. The gathering aimed to thank the labor community for their contributions to Pakistan’s economy and to foster solidarity during the holy month of Ramadan.
Pakistan’s Consul General in Dubai, Hussain Muhammad, toured the camp and walked among the tables, warmly greeting workers and inquiring about their well-being. He praised the workers’ contributions to both Dubai’s growth and Pakistan’s prosperity, and offered them heartfelt Ramadan greetings. The consul reassured everyone that the Pakistani Consulate “remains fully accessible to assist the Pakistani diaspora in the Northern Emirates”. He also encouraged them to continue being exemplary UAE residents by respecting and upholding local laws.
NPB’s business lead, Rashid-ul-Islam, highlighted the crucial role of overseas Pakistani workers in supporting Pakistan’s economy. He noted that the UAE currently ranks second globally in sending remittances to Pakistan. Rashid-ul-Islam described new initiatives by NBP and Al Ansari Exchange to reward customers who remit funds directly to Pakistani bank accounts, including a special cash-reward scheme. Officials reminded the group that using official banking channels benefits everyone: it “not only strengthens Pakistan’s economy but also ensures the safety and security of the workers’ hard-earned income”.
During the ceremony, the organizers honored the camp’s top remitters by presenting them with gifts and prizes. These awards recognized workers who consistently send money home, underscoring how their remittances support families in Pakistan. Press Counsellor Muhammad Saleh and Community Welfare Attachés Junaid Murtaza and Imran Shahid were also present, along with representatives from NBP and Al Ansari Exchange. By the end of the evening, many laborers expressed gratitude, saying the iftar helped them feel connected to Pakistan even while working far from home.
