Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline Group, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman of Dubai Duty Free, the celebratory event brought the spirit of the Freej to life at DXB, Terminal 3. The celebration invited Dubai Airports employees, the oneDXB community, and guests, to step back in time and experience how Emirati families once lived, socialised, and celebrated together in the alleyways and communal spaces that defined the nation’s shared heritage. Visitors arriving at DXB, Terminal 3, also enjoyed traditional performances such as Al-Ayala, Al-Liwa, and Al-Habban on stage along with entering exclusive giveaways.

Guided by the enduring legacy of the UAE’s Founding Fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the event paid tribute to their vision of unity, compassion, and progress - values that continue to shape the spirit of the nation and the oneDXB community today.

From the winding sikkas to the vibrant corners of the Freej, employees were immersed in authentic cultural experiences, traditional performances, and the sights, sounds, and flavours of Emirati life. Photographic displays, heritage stalls, and local food captured the essence of the UAE’s past, transporting visitors to a time when friendship, generosity, and togetherness defined community life.

His Excellency Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “Eid Al Etihad is a celebration of unity and shared pride, values that are deeply embedded in the Emirati way of life. Through the revival of the Freej, Dubai Airports honours the legacy of our Founding Fathers and reflects the spirit of community that continues to drive the UAE’s journey of connection and progress.”

Throughout the event, attendees discovered an authentic Freej experience brought to life through a series of interactive cultural zones. A traditional market showcased Emirati craftsmanship and local products, while Dubai Duty Free (DDF) recreated the charm of its early days at DXB with a display of vintage merchandise once sold at the time. The Police Station zone highlighted the historic role of national service entities in safeguarding the community, while Customs and Immigration displays illustrated their vital roles at the airport during that era. The Bridal Room inside the Emirati house featured a special performance presented in collaboration with Dubai Culture, showcasing the traditional bridal experience. In partnership with DCAS, a heritage-inspired hospital illustrated early healthcare practices, while a Henna Corner celebrated the artistry and beauty traditions that continue to connect generations.

Dubai Airports won the Best Entity in Service Provision for the Corporate category that is concerned with providing services to customers, government and private entities to ensure the best travel experience for passengers. Ahmed Buti Sabt Saeed, who works in the Security department at Dubai Airports was honoured with a Dubai Medal for Special Recognition – The Unknown Soldier, for his extraordinary ability to face and overcome difficulties, whether personal or career challenges, while performing an outstanding job that exceeds expectations.

Dr. Hazza Al Nuaimi, Coordinator General of Government Excellence Program, expressed his appreciation for the efforts Dubai Airports and its employees have made in this cycle, in particular their dedication to pursuing excellence. He pointed out that competition was tough to win the awards of the programme and congratulated the winners of Dubai Airports and called on those who participated in the award to always look to the future and never give up.

In 1997, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, established Dubai Government Excellence Program (DGEP), to be the driving force behind the development of the Dubai’s government sector. The program has contributed to a radical change in the performance and practices applied in the government sector.

The ceremony was attended by members of the DGEP Executive Council, Dubai Airports executive leadership team, including CEO Paul Griffiths, Deputy CEO HE Jamal Al Hai, CFO Adil Al Fahim and EVP Corporate Affairs Majed Al Joker, was held at Expo 2020 Dubai.

-ENDS

Editors Notes

• Dubai Airports manages the operation and development of both of Dubai’s airports – DXB and DWC.
• As integrator, Dubai Airports works to balance the interests of all stakeholders to maintain aviation growth, protect operational resilience and ensure that service providers collaborate to provide a safe and secure service and improve the experience of our customers whilst maintaining a sustainable business.