A large gathering of Sri Lankan families in Dubai and Northern Emirates, as well as members of the Diplomatic community, took part in the celebrations. Mr. Abdul Raheem, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai along with the Consul Generals of Australia, Thailand and Italy inaugurated the activities with lighting of the traditional oil lamp.

A number of traditional Sri Lankan games including New Year Princess (Avurudu Kumariya), New Year Prince (Avurudu Kumaraya), pillow fighting, coconut scraping, playing the drum and, weaving coconut leaves contests and other events were held with many children keenly participating. A Sri Lankan cultural performance and serving of authentic Sri Lankan food were highlights of the event.

Foreign diplomats and their spouses were treated according to Sri Lankan traditional culture and music with colourful costumes worn by Sri Lankan children. The celebrations offered an opportunity to show and promote Sri Lanka’s traditional New Year activities among the expatriate community and well-wishers in Dubai.