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Wed, Jan 14, 2026 | Rajab 25, 1447 | Fajr 05:45 | DXB 
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Look: Sheikh Hamdan attends 'Dubai Lunch' at community majlis, interacts with over 200 guests
The initiative designed to strengthen social ties and reinforce neighbourly bonds through gatherings hosted at community majlises across Dubai
The Dubai Crown Prince met with more than 200 local dignitaries and families from Deira as part of the newly launched ‘Dubai Lunch’ initiative.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, attended the event, held at Al Khawaneej Majlis, following an invitation from Mohammed Juma Al Naboodah.
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In photos posted on X, the Crown Prince could be seen talking happily with the guests at the lunch.
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A heartwarming snap captured him in an affectionate moment with a small boy, gently holding the child's face while grasping his hand.
What is 'Dubai Lunch'?
‘Dubai Lunch’ is an initiative designed to strengthen social ties and reinforce neighbourly bonds through gatherings hosted at community majlises across Dubai.
The initiative seeks to revive the traditional role of these majlises as inclusive forums that bring people together, fostering familiarity, solidarity, and a deeper sense of connection.
Promoting social cohesion
Sheikh Hamdan stressed that strengthening social cohesion within the Dubai community is fundamental to sustaining the emirate’s development journey. A city’s true strength is measured not by its infrastructure alone, but by the strength of its social fabric and close bonds shared by its people, he said.
He added that community majlises have always been, and will continue to be, the bedrock of social cohesion, providing an ideal setting for people to meet, talk, and connect, and for values to be passed on through lived experience.
“Through the ‘Dubai Lunch’ initiative, we aim to reaffirm the principles that have shaped Dubai since its earliest days, including compassion, open communication, hospitality, and a shared sense of responsibility. These values are not simply part of our history; they are essential in guiding our path forward,” he said.
'Dubai Lunch' will continue across the emirate, featuring open lunch gatherings that bring residents together in a welcoming atmosphere reflecting Emirati hospitality.
People-centred development
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said, “The ‘Dubai Lunch’ initiative translates the leadership’s vision of people-centred development into tangible community action, creating spaces where social connection, shared values, and everyday interaction are actively strengthened.”
She added, “As Dubai prepares to celebrate the Year of the Family in 2026, the initiative was tailored to strengthen the values of connection and communication, and to revive the authentic social role of majlises.”
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