• Home

Pakistan Association to Raise Funds 
for Multi-purpose Hall

Falling short of Dh4 million to construct the first phase, the executive committee called upon Pakistanis to participate by donating towards the construction of the only community centre for Pakistanis in Dubai.

“We have already started work on the project and Dh4 million has already been spent on the construction,” said Riaz Farooq Sahi, President of the 
association.

Outlining several strategies to raise funds for this purpose, the members said the association is planning on approaching businessmen for donations, holding fundraisers by organising entertainment functions and even sending appeal text messages.

“The community can also donate Dh10 and proudly say that we took part in construction of this centre,” said Farooq on Saturday.

Pakistani businessmen have already offered free aluminium and woodworks for the hall.

The centre is going to be built in three phases. The first phase includes construction of a multi-purpose hall that can accommodate over 800 people, 
and will be used for sports, and a 
banquet hall.

The second phase will include food courts, a gym, a guest house and a library while the third phase will include a basement parking. The project’s total expenditure is expected to reach Dh20 million. During a recent visit to Dubai, the Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani promised to provide 75 per cent of the financing required for the first phase of the centre. However, the promise is yet to be fulfilled.

The idea of a new centre was conceived in 1992 but lack of funds and fighting among community groups has delayed the construction for over two decades.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.ae

• UAE