Arci Muñoz, G22 and 1st.One join Kalayaan 2026 in UAE

MANILA, Philippines — Set for June 7 at Dubai World Trade Centre, Kalayaan 2026 brings together Filipino music, culture, food and community spirit in the Middle East’s largest celebration of Philippine Independence.

For many Filipinos living and working in the UAE, Kalayaan has become a day marked on calendars months in advance.

It is a day when families, friends, professionals, entrepreneurs, community groups and Filipinos from all walks of life come together to celebrate the traditions, experiences and connections that continue to tie them to home. And this year, that celebration is getting even bigger.

Actress-singer Arci Muñoz, P-Pop girl group G22 and P-Pop boy group 1st.One are set to take the spotlight at Kalayaan 2026, bringing Filipino entertainment to what has become the Middle East’s largest and most iconic celebration of Philippine Independence.

Carrying the theme “Feel the Freedom. Share the Peace,” Kalayaan 2026 is presented by Emirates Loves Philippines, Infinite Communities and The Filipino Channel (TFC), with support from D&R Elegant Events, Urban Grid Group and VivaOne.

Aside from featuring the Philippines’ most recognizable performers, the day-long program will also spotlight musical and cultural presentations from Filipino groups across the Emirates, highlighting the diversity, creativity and talent of the UAE’s Filipino population.

“Kalayaan 2026 will once again showcase world-class Filipino entertainment, music, culture, and community spirit on one grand stage,” said Elena Cruz, founder and CEO of Infinite Communities.

Throughout the day, attendees can explore a wide range of attractions designed for all ages.

The crowd-favorite Kalayaan Food Village returns with Filipino street food, regional specialties and multicultural culinary offerings that have become a staple of the celebration.

Visitors can also enjoy esports tournaments, robotics and innovation showcases, mathematics competitions, cosplay activities, fashion presentations, art exhibits, pop culture booths, traditional Larong Pinoy games, carnival-inspired attractions and the Pinoy Street Bazaar.

A celebration of Filipino talent and community

According to Josie Conlu, community director of Infinite Communities, one of the event’s highlights remains the active participation of Filipino organizations and performers from across the UAE.

“We are excited to bring together musical and cultural presentations from various Filipino community groups across the Emirates, celebrating the diversity, creativity and talent of the UAE Filipino community,” Conlu said.

Their participation reflects what has made Kalayaan special through the years—a celebration shaped not only by performers, but by the people and organizations who continue to keep Filipino traditions and experiences alive abroad.

With more than one million Filipinos living and working across the UAE, Kalayaan has evolved into one of the community’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

“More than just a celebration, Kalayaan 2026 serves as a platform to unite the Filipino community, promote cultural understanding, and share the richness of Philippine traditions with the wider UAE audience,” Cruz added.

The event is supported by the Philippine Embassy, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, the Migrant Workers Office, Dubai Police, Positive Spirit, Hemaya International and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA Dubai).

On June 7, thousands are expected to gather once again—not only to celebrate Philippine Independence Day, but to celebrate the enduring connections, shared memories and sense of belonging that make a community feel like home.

Editor’s Note: This press release from Infinite Communities is published by the Advertising Content Team that is independent from our Editorial Newsroom.