The largest celebration of Filipino culture outside the Philippines is set to return in full force on Sunday, June 1, 2025, as Kalayaan 2025 takes center stage at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
Running from 8AM-8PM, this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, drawing over 35,000 attendees, with a showcase of Filipino pride, talent, and unity on a grand scale.
Presented by Emirates Love Philippines, The Filipino Channel, and Infinite Communities, in partnership with Viva One Management, Kalayaan 2025 is a tribute to the strength and vibrancy of the Filipino diaspora in the UAE. The event is held with the full support of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, Migrant Workers Office, GDRFA, Dubai Police, Positive Spirit, Hemaya International Center and Philippine Business Council.
The community celebration is further amplified by partnerships with key Filipino media and advocacy groups including Expat Media, The Filipino Times, The Global Filipino Magazine and Tatak Pinoy Loud and Proud.
This year’s festivities will be enhanced by star-studded performances from some of the Philippines’ most beloved celebrities. Representing TFC are Kai Montinola and Jarren Garcia, while Julia Barretto and MJ Cayabyab will appear on behalf of Viva Entertainment. Their presence is expected to thrill the crowd and add star power to the day’s lineup.
Attendees can look forward to a full day of cultural performances, modern dances, drum and lyre presentations, and youth showcases, alongside community parades, cosplay competitions, e-sports tournaments, and a Sagala parade. The event also features a Cargo Village, Learning Zone, Art and Photography Exhibits, and the ever-popular Kalayaan Food Village offering a wide variety of Filipino culinary favorites.
Kalayaan 2025 also embraces multiculturalism in line with the UAE’s Year of the Community, by featuring performances from international communities including India, Korea, Indonesia, and China—a reflection of the UAE’s rich diversity and inclusive spirit.
A key highlight of the program will be the awarding ceremony of the “50 Years of Love” Filmmaking Competition, celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the UAE. The competition invited aspiring filmmakers to creatively portray stories of friendship, shared aspirations, and cultural connection between the two nations.
The event enjoys a strong media presence and online visibility, with a social media reach of over 5
million, and support from hundreds of community groups, schools, institutions, and businesses across the UAE.
