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Sri Lankan Workers in Dubai Mobilize to Meet President Dissanayake During UAE Visit
As Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake prepares for his state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 10 to 13, a significant number of middle-class Sri Lankan workers in Dubai are mobilizing to meet him during this important trip. Over 350,000 Sri Lankans are employed across various sectors in Dubai, with many working in construction, hospitality, and other labour-intensive industries. These workers, often separated from their families back home, are eager to meet the President not only to extend their warmest welcome but also to discuss the challenges they face daily in the UAE.
The middle-class workers, who have been an integral part of the UAE’s economy, see this visit as a rare opportunity to bring attention to their struggles and aspirations. With the promise of new agreements on fuel, gas, trade, and investments between Sri Lanka and the UAE, the workers hope that their voices will be heard on issues such as job security, wages, and working conditions. Many are anxious to highlight their efforts in sustaining their families back home while facing hardships abroad, working long hours and dealing with the complexities of the foreign labor market.
For these workers, the President’s visit symbolizes a chance to improve their living standards and secure better prospects for Sri Lankans working in the Gulf. They also look forward to the possibility of new job opportunities, along with progress in education and tourism that could benefit their families back in Sri Lanka.
Diplomatic Moves :
On the diplomatic front, the visit aims to solidify Sri Lanka’s economic relationship with the UAE, including negotiations to secure advantageous fuel and gas import deals. Additionally, talks will focus on promoting Sri Lanka’s exports, including tea and gems, and encouraging tourism and investment from the UAE. Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath confirmed that the formation of a joint commission between the two countries is also a key aspect of the visit.
However, for these middle-class workers in Dubai, the upcoming meetings with President Dissanayake offer more than just discussions of economic agreements. They represent a glimmer of hope—a chance for their voices to be acknowledged, their struggles addressed, and their contributions to both countries’ economies recognized. As they prepare to welcome their President, they’re united in the hope that this visit will pave the way for a brighter future, both in the UAE and back home in Sri Lanka.
