PANAJI
The ‘Dubai Goans’ brought the Goan community together for a celebration of music, culture and togetherness at the World Goa Day 2026, which was celebrated at the Marriott Marquis, Jewel of the Creek Promenade, on October 31.
The event was specially dedicated to Global Goan Youth, highlighting the achievements and growing international recognition of young Goan talent.
The ‘Dubai Goans’, led by well-known event organisers, Neville Menezes, Billy Fernandes and Allen Fernandes, has been recognised for contributing to Dubai’s entertainment and community events scene, promoting Goan heritage while providing a platform for talented artistes.
The event featured performances by ‘Clayjars’, ‘Godgodo’ and internationally acclaimed artiste Tsumyoki, who kept the audience entertained with their energetic music and stage presence. Goa’s charismatic emcee Felly Gomes kept the dance floor buzzing, while Rosario de Siolim, DJ Tony D, DJ Daenan and DJ Manfred added to the excitement with their lively performances.
A special highlight was the presentation of the Global Goan Youth of the Year Award to Nathan Joseph Mendes, popularly known as Tsumyoki, recognising his achievements in music.
An MTV Europe Music Award winner, Tsumyoki became the youngest artiste signed to DIVINE’s Gully Gang Entertainment in 2021 and has accumulated over 150 million streams across digital platforms.
The celebrations also featured entertainment for children and a delightful selection of Goan and international cuisine, catered by Marriott Marquis, Jewel of the Creek, against the beautiful backdrop of Dubai’s waterfront.
The event was supported by Green Leaf Events, Burj Bites, Oro Vento, GCAV, Eric’s Restaurant, Your Travel Buddy, Nutribite, That’s It and Horizon Gourmet. The organisers extended special thanks to Heston Tavares and Silvester D’Souza for their support and contributions.
World Goa Day Dubai 2026 was a celebration of Goan pride, community spirit and the promising future of Goan youth, reinforcing the commitment of Dubai Goans to keeping Goa’s rich culture and traditions alive in the UAE.
ABOUT DUBAI GOANS
Established in 2018, Dubai Goans is a community-driven initiative dedicated to bringing the Goan community in Dubai together through cultural, musical and social events, while celebrating and preserving Goa’s rich heritage and traditions.
The trio behind Dubai Goans — Neville Menezes, Billy Fernandes and Allen Patrick Fernandes — share a common passion for bringing the Goan community together through memorable celebrations and meaningful community engagement.
Dubai Goans organises four major annual events: Konkan Carnival, Festa São João, Bandra Fest and World Goa Day. These celebrations have become popular gatherings within the community, attracting approximately 1,250 to 2,000 attendees per event.
Each major event features two to three international bands from Goa, alongside talented local artists and DJs, offering a vibrant mix of live music, entertainment and Goan culture.
In addition to these large-scale celebrations, Dubai Goans also organises smaller community events such as Food Fiesta, Footballers Cup and Christmas Tree Lighting, encouraging community participation and strengthening connections among Goans living in Dubai.
Over the years, Dubai Goans has continued to grow as a platform that brings people together, promotes Goan talent and keeps the spirit of Goa alive in the UAE.
