Abu Dhabi – His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE, met with Swami Brahmaviharidas, head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, on April 14, 2025, to discuss shared values of peace, harmony and interfaith understanding.
The meeting, held in the spirit of mutual respect and cultural inclusivity, reinforced the UAE’s long-standing commitment to tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and intercultural dialogue. Home to over 200 nationalities, the UAE has become a global model for diversity and inclusion, offering safety, security, and prosperity to people of all backgrounds.
A vision of unity and shared values
During the dialogue, both leaders emphasised the UAE’s role as a global bridge-builder and affirmed the importance of fostering understanding across faiths and nations. “The value of tolerance is woven into the very fabric of Emirati society,” Sheikh Abdullah noted, highlighting how the country continues to build an inclusive environment through forward-looking policies and global outreach.
Swami Brahmaviharidas echoed this sentiment, expressing profound gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President, for his vision and support in bringing the Mandir to life. The Mandir, he said, stands not just as a religious landmark, but as a beacon of global harmony and unity.
Celebrating milestones and future plans
The BAPS delegation—comprising Swami Aksharatitdas, Shri Ashok Kotecha, and Pranav Desai—shared updates on the development of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, including its architectural progress and its expanding international initiatives. Swami Brahmaviharidas presented a specially crafted Crystal Gift of Gratitude to Sheikh Abdullah, symbolising the deep appreciation and reverence for the UAE’s leadership and their continuous encouragement.
As one of the first traditional Hindu stone temples in the Middle East, the BAPS Mandir has grown into a symbol of religious harmony, not only enriching the cultural fabric of the UAE but also representing a unique chapter in global interfaith cooperation.
Looking toward the future
The conversation also touched on the UAE’s next 50-year vision, which places a strong emphasis on strengthening social and cultural diversity as part of the nation’s global leadership aspirations. By continuing to build bridges between communities and fostering dialogue, the UAE reaffirms its place as one of the world’s most inclusive and forward-thinking societies.
This high-level interaction further strengthens the bond between the UAE and the Hindu community, reiterating a shared dedication to nurturing a world of greater understanding, tolerance, and peace.