Distinguished social worker recognized for his unwavering commitment to helping families of deceased expatriates regardless of nationality
SHARJAH, UAE – A prestigious ceremony was held at Al Nawab Restaurant in Sharjah to honor Raja Abdul Ghafoor, affectionately known as Lala Abdul Ghafoor, for his 31 years of selfless humanitarian service to the Pakistani community and beyond.
The event was organized by prominent businessman Haji Muhammad Yaseen and attended by distinguished personalities from various walks of life, including community leaders, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to recognize Ghafoor’s lifelong dedication to serving humanity.
A Legacy of Compassion and Service
Lala Abdul Ghafoor has spent decades in the UAE dedicated to humanitarian service, with his most notable contribution being his tireless work in assisting families during times of bereavement. Without discrimination of any kind, he arranges for the repatriation of deceased expatriates to their home countries, handles necessary official procedures, and provides comprehensive support to grieving families.
His services are rendered without any expectation of compensation, personal gain, or publicity—driven solely by compassion, sincerity, and a genuine spirit of service. This approach has earned him respect not only from the Pakistani community but also from individuals of various nationalities who recognize and appreciate his humanitarian efforts.
Professional and Community Contributions
Throughout his professional career, Ghafoor served with distinction at a prominent aluminum company in Dubai, where he demonstrated exceptional professional competence. However, alongside his professional commitments, he consistently prioritized social welfare and humanitarian activities.
During natural disasters and emergencies in Pakistan, he actively participated in relief efforts. Through platforms such as the Pakistan Association Dubai and Pakistan Social Centre Sharjah, he played a crucial role in coordinating with various companies and organizations to send essential supplies and aid to those in need in Pakistan.
Distinguished Attendees
The ceremony witnessed participation from notable community figures, including:
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Chaudhry Khalid Hussain – President, Pakistan Social Centre Sharjah
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Syed Saleem Akhtar – First Chairman, Pakistan Business Council Sharjah
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Khawar Hussain
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Raja Abid Hussain
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Sibte Arif
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Abdul Majid Bhatti
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Dr. Zafar Tahir
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Sajid Hussain Cheema
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Malik Shahzad Younis
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Muhammad Tariq
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Muhammad Farooq
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Sohail Khawar
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And numerous other distinguished personalities
Community Recognition and Tributes
Speaking at the event, participants paid glowing tribute to Ghafoor’s decades of humanitarian work, emphasizing that individuals who devote their lives to easing others’ difficulties are a blessing to society. They noted that Ghafoor, by serving humanity without discrimination of color, race, nationality, or language, has set a commendable example not just for the Pakistani community but for all of humanity.
Malik Shahzad presented gifts to Lala Abdul Ghafoor during the ceremony. Attendees expressed their heartfelt wishes that, despite his plans to depart from the UAE, he should continue this great mission of service with renewed determination and spirit.
Message from Lala Abdul Ghafoor
“Service to humanity is not a position or title for me—it is the voice of my heart. I will continue this journey of serving humanity to the best of my ability, Insha’Allah. The UAE has given me so much in life. I found livelihood here, and 32 precious years of my life are connected to this land. I have gained and learned so much here, for which I am deeply grateful to the rulers of the Emirates. Helping others brings me genuine happiness and satisfaction. I have done this work without any reward or worldly greed, and I will continue to do so. If circumstances permit, I will continue my social and welfare services in the UAE.”
Event Host’s Remarks
Concluding the ceremony, host Haji Muhammad Yasin praised Ghafoor’s 31 years of selfless service, stating:
“Such individuals are the true assets of any society—people who live not for themselves but for others. Lala Abdul Ghafoor’s personality is a shining example that even when living in a foreign land, through character, sincerity, and service, one can earn a place not only in one’s own community but in the hearts of every human being.”
About Lala Abdul Ghafoor
Raja Abdul Ghafoor, known respectfully as Lala Abdul Ghafoor, has been a prominent social and welfare figure in the UAE for over three decades. He is widely recognized for his compassionate service in repatriating deceased expatriates and supporting their families, as well as his contributions during natural disasters and emergencies in Pakistan. His services are rendered purely out of humanitarian spirit, without any expectation of reward or recognition.
