Greek invasion of Dubai's Safa Park: For football filled with hope

A large group of Greek nationals recently came together for the first ever ‘mini’ Greek Football Tournament in the UAE

The mood was one of sending thoughts and solidarity to their co-patriots back home, who are still amidst one of the deepest socio-economic crisis in their country’s history.

Eight teams consisting mainly of Greek players, played intense football for almost four hours culminating in an extraordinary final and a penalty shoot-out.

Friends, families and lots of young children, created a warm atmosphere showcasing famous home-made cooked delicacies, and watched fixated the passionate teams.


The Champions, Public Café, danced a zeibekiko, one traditionally brave man’s dance, to the cheers of those in attendance.

The tournament was organized by Emfasis Foundation, a non-profit organisation founded by Greeks living overseas, providing their own response to Greece’s crucial issues, such as depression, unemployment, vulnerable health care systems

Maria Karra, the Founder, who lives and works in Dubai for many years, explains: “ We have a moral obligation to stay next to all Greek citizens who have been affected tremendously in the last three years. Just because we don’t live in Greece, it doesn’t exonerate us from our duty to contribute in any way we can. It’s not always about money. Each one of us can help someone in need, make them feel important and not forgotten.”

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