The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, hosted a Diplomatic Reception at the Sheraton Hotel and Resorts in Abu Dhabi for UAE government officials, members of the diplomatic corps based in the UAE, the business community, travel agents, labour recruiting agencies, and representatives from cultural and civil society organizations on 04 February 2026. Over 150 guests were present at the reception.
His Excellency Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister for Organizations and Development Affairs, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest of the Diplomatic Reception. The Embassy was also privileged to host Honourable Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning of Sri Lanka, and Honourable Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, Minister of Science and Technology.
The lighting of the traditional oil lamp by the Chief Guest, and the Ministers from Sri Lanka showcased a unique cultural element associated with Sri Lankan events.
Addressing the gathering, Her Excellency Dr. Arusha Cooray, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United Arab Emirates, highlighted Sri Lanka’s achievements in the health and education sectors since independence, current bilateral cooperation in tourism, trade, and investment between Sri Lanka and the UAE, and Sri Lanka’s commitment to further strengthening relations between the two countries. Ambassador Cooray also expressed gratitude to the Government of the United Arab Emirates for its solidarity and cooperation, especially during the tragedy caused by Cyclone Ditwah in December 2025.
The speech was followed by the cutting of a cake, a group photograph with the Chief Guest, Ministers, and members of the diplomatic corps, and a raffle draw. Aitken Spence Travels, Jetwing Travels, Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi, and Akbar Tea sponsored vouchers for the raffle draw.
Guests were entertained with traditional dance performances by a Sri Lankan dance troupe based in the UAE.
Attendees were also treated to a buffet dinner featuring Sri Lankan cuisine and beverages. An exhibition of photographs showcasing Sri Lankan culture and wildlife, along with displays by Sri Lankan companies based in the UAE featuring products such as tea and coconut-based items, was also organized.
The Embassy additionally hosted the official ceremony to celebrate Sri Lanka’s 78th Anniversary of Independence on the morning of 04 February 2026 at the Sheraton Hotel and Resorts, with the participation of over 150 members of the Sri Lankan community. The celebration included the hoisting of the national flag, singing of the national anthem in Sinhala and Tamil by children from Daham Pasala, lighting of the oil lamp, blessings from the four major religions, reading of messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, and an address by the Ambassador. The ceremony concluded with a traditional Sri Lankan food table and networking, as customary.
In her remarks, Her Excellency Dr. Arusha Cooray thanked the Sri Lankan community in the United Arab Emirates and UAE government officials for their continuous support, as well as the Sri Lankan community for their cooperation.
Both events were generously supported by Mr. Rusan Fyroze, CEO of Siraj Holdings, and other well‑wishers of the Embassy.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
10 February 2026
