UAE: Prominent business leaders in the UAE have joined voices worldwide in mourning Pope Francis’s passing, offering heartfelt tributes that reflect his deep impact far beyond religious circles. Their messages underscore the Pope’s extraordinary ability to transcend spiritual and cultural boundaries, uniting people of all faiths through his unwavering commitment to compassion, justice, and universal human dignity.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj has sent a letter of condolences and prayers to the Catholic community following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
In addition, to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s letter of condolences, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami and the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi offered their heartfelt sympathies on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
Pujya Brahmavihari Swami added “His humility and unwavering commitment to human dignity touched hearts across the world. We fondly remember his presence at the historic signing of the Human Fraternity Document in Abu Dhabi on 4 February 2019—a moment that symbolized hope, unity, and a future built on mutual respect. His deep respect for all faiths, including the
Indian and Hindu communities, opened new paths for understanding and harmony.”
Many praised his role as a global moral compass, noting how his leadership consistently emphasized inclusion, peace, and empathy in an increasingly divided world. His legacy, they said, resonates strongly in the UAE’s own vision of tolerance and coexistence, making his loss deeply personal for many across the nation’s diverse communities.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare said, ” We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. A compassionate and visionary leader, his legacy of humility, unity and unwavering commitment to peace has left a profound impact across the world. In the UAE, a nation that champions tolerance and interfaith harmony, his historic visit in 2019 marked a defining moment, strengthening the values of coexistence and mutual respect that we hold dear. Pope Francis’ openness to dialogue, advocacy for the vulnerable, and efforts to bridge divides made him not only a beloved spiritual leader but also a global symbol of hope, compassion, and change. His legacy will continue to inspire communities worldwide.”
Surender Singh Kandhari expressed his condolence with profound grief and deep reverence, He said that the Sikh community of the United Arab Emirates, on behalf of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara Dubai, extends heartfelt condolences on the passing away of His Holiness Pope Francis—a beacon of faith, compassion, humility, and hope in our world.
Surender Singh Kandhari added that His Holiness was more than the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. He was a global moral voice—an ambassador of peace, a tireless servant of humanity, and a shining symbol of unity across religions and cultures. His unwavering commitment to the poor, his steadfast advocacy for the marginalized, his care for the environment, and his enduring message of love and inclusivity touched countless hearts across the globe, including ours.
We were truly honored and humbled to have had a sacred audience with His Holiness Pope Francis at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on 11th November 2023, as a Sikh delegation from Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai. This historic meeting was a powerful moment of spiritual communion and mutual respect between two faiths grounded in service, equality, and compassion.
His Holiness received us with immense warmth and joy, acknowledging the faith-driven seva (selfless service) that our community carries out in the UAE and beyond. He eloquently stated, “Faith and service, as you are aware, are intimately linked.” These words deeply resonated with our Sikh values and left a lasting impression on all who were present.
During the meeting, His Holiness reflected on the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib Ji, especially the verses of Sukhmani Sahib, which emphasize that true peace and closeness to God are attained through humble service to humanity. He beautifully echoed the spirit of Sarbat da Bhala—the Sikh prayer for the welfare of all—when he encouraged us to continue serving the poor, the needy, and those on the margins of society.
