UAE the perfect example of truly tolerant society

For anyone looking for what a truly tolerant society is all about, the UAE serves as a perfect answer. “The UAE’s model of open-mindedness demonstrates the true image of Islam, which is one of love, tolerance and brotherhood,” a UAE newspaper said on Tuesday.

“Founding Father late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan laid the seeds for such a broadminded approach right at the time of foundation of the nation,” stated The Gulf Today in an editorial.

“The Albanian Parliament and the International Parliament for tolerance and Peace (IPTP) have taken the right step by honouring Sheikh Zayed, who was well known as a man of peace and a visionary who promoted the values of tolerance and dialogue around the world.

“The unveiling of a multi-faith prayer room on its premises by Abu Dhabi International Airport is among the latest adorable initiatives aimed at fostering amity among communities. The prayer room allows for the practice of religious rites and rituals for airport travellers of all faiths.”

“The huge turnout from all communities for “Tolerance Expressions,” held as part of the National Tolerance Festival, where over 30 local and international artists made together a painting conveying the meaning of tolerance through the UAE’s landmarks, also reflects the peoples’ wholehearted involvement in such meaningful activities,” it added.

“Minister for Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan is absolutely correct in stating that the scene on the Tolerance Bridge, where the event was held, confirms the fact that all communities in the UAE enjoy the harmonious coexistence, communication and happiness.”

The paper went on to say that the great values are being highlighted through other campaigns too.

“The Sawab Centre, a joint UAE-US digital communications hub to combat extremist ideologies online and promote positive alternatives, has been running a four-day campaign from Nov.18, titled #KnowingTheOther.

“The campaign strongly advocates building bridges among peoples, cultures and religions to break down the barriers of hate, ignorance, and prejudice. Through highlighting the examples of Ibn Batutta, Leo Tolstoy and other luminaries, #KnowingTheOther is also addressing the benefits of travel, learning foreign languages, and exposing oneself to other cultures and religions to expand one’s horizons and to help create just, tolerant and peaceful communities.”

In conclusion, the editorial said that the country offers an outstanding example by remaining at the forefront in the advocacy on harmony and tolerance globally as well as locally. “It should not be forgotten that the UAE was the first country in the world to launch a tolerance charter aimed at spreading the noble values of coexistence.”