Rotary District 2452 Successfully Holds 12th District Conference in Dubai, UAE

Rotary International District 2452 proudly celebrated the resounding success of its 12th District Conference, held from May 22 to 24, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The three-day event brought together Rotarians, Rotaractors, district leaders, and guests from across the district and beyond, creating a vibrant atmosphere of fellowship, inspiration, and shared purpose.

Led by District Governor Hussain Al Jaziri and themed “The Magic of Rotary,” the conference served as both a celebration of the district’s achievements and a reflection on the power of Rotary’s core values. The event offered a platform for dialogue, learning, and collaboration as members looked back on the year’s milestones and envisioned the future of Rotary service.

In alignment with the District theme, “The Magic of Tolerance and Diversity,” the program featured meaningful conversations on innovation in service, peacebuilding, diversity, and sustainability. Delegates engaged with panel discussions featuring distinguished speakers, Rotarian leaders, and professionals who shared real-world success stories that inspired and empowered all in attendance.

From left: Reim El Houni - TV and Media Personality, Maywand Jabarkhyl - CEO of Fatima Bint Mohammed Bin Zayed Initiative FBMI, H.E Dr. Maryam Matar - Founder and President, United Arab Emirates Genetic Diseases Association

From left: PDG Bashar Haddad, PDG George Azar, DG Peter Ashdjian, DGE May Monla

From left: PDG Jamil Mouawad, PDG Ashot Karapetyan and PDS Yaseen Jaffer

From left: PDRR Emil Moawad, Shawn Chidiac - Social Medial Personality, PDRR Elie Gharios, DRRE Mohamed Yaseen

Power Talk: Patrick Chalhoub, Executive Chairman of Chalhoub Group

Power Talk: Jonathan Bender, Secretary General of Emirates Airline Foundation

Beyond the conference hall, attendees and their spouses had the opportunity to explore some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. Visits included the Museum of the Future, Burj Al Arab, and the La Perle show in Habtoor City, experiences that showcased the city’s hospitality and vibrant culture.

A key highlight of the event was the District Awards Ceremony, where Rotary Clubs were recognized for their outstanding contributions to community service and humanitarian efforts. These awards celebrated the passion and dedication of clubs working to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Rotary Club of Dubai

Rotary Club of Jumeirah Dubai

Rotary Club of Dubai Downtown

The conference concluded on a high note with a Gala Dinner, honoring the hard work of the organizing committee and the contributions of Past District Governors. The evening also featured the ceremonial handover of leadership from DG Hussain Al Jaziri to incoming District Governor Peter Ashdjian of Cyprus—symbolizing the continuity of Rotary’s mission and momentum.

Special recognition goes to the Organizing Committee, led by Conference Chairman Mr. Ahmad Belselah, for delivering a seamless and memorable event. Their tireless efforts ensured that the conference was held to the highest standard of excellence, reflecting the spirit of Rotary and the warm hospitality of the United Arab Emirates.

The success of the 12th District Conference would not have been possible without the generous support of our valued sponsors, whose contributions helped make this event truly special.

Hosting the District Conference in the UAE—a rare occurrence that happens once every nine years—was a source of pride for local clubs. It reaffirmed the country’s commitment to welcoming and connecting Rotarians from all walks of life, and to continuing Rotary’s mission of service above self in the most meaningful and impactful way possible.