The Consulate General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and Northern Emirates celebrated the spirit of Christmas in a heartwarming ceremony with the temporary residents at the Safe House of the Consulate General. The event was held on 20 December 2024, marking a meaningful and unique way to embrace the season's message of compassion and giving.
The celebrations, held with the support of "Serve the City - UAE", a volunteer organization headed by Karen Ramirez Marin, brought joy and a sense of togetherness to Sri Lankan domestic workers who are temporarily housed at the Safe House. These individuals, registered with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE), have sought assistance from the Consulate General for repatriation due to various challenges.
This year’s event featured carols and a lively Christmas program and marked the second consecutive year the Consulate General has organized Christmas carols for the Safe House residents, building on the success of last year’s celebration.
Addressing the gathering, Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and Northern Emirates, Alexi Gunasekera emphasized the profound message of Christmas: "Lord Jesus Christ, known as the Prince of Peace, came to this world to turn tears into laughter, hate into love, war into peace, and everyone to everyone’s neighbour. We must first seek peace within ourselves—within our families and workplaces—so that this peace can ripple out to create a more harmonious world. By celebrating Christmas with the Safe House temporary residents, we aim to share the joy of this season and embody the true essence of the birth of Jesus Christ".
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of gifts, leaving all participants with a smile.
This initiative underscores the commitment of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai to support Sri Lankan expatriates in need while highlighting the universal message of Christmas, i.e. to uplift, support, and inspire hope in others.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Dubai and Northern Emirates
24 December 2024
