A stamp collector from Kerala has celebrated the “Proud of UAE” campaign in a unique way through his rare collection.
AJMAN: When His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, called on citizens and residents to raise the national flag over homes, institutions, and buildings, most responded by displaying the UAE flag in a show of solidarity and national pride.
Dubai resident Imtiaz Qureshi went a step further to mark the “Proud of UAE” campaign in a unique way.
The Indian expatriate and avid philatelist from Kasaragod, Kerala, who has lived in the UAE for over 20 years, showcased his personal collection of more than 100 UAE stamps featuring the national flag. Each stamp commemorates a milestone, achievement, or significant national moment.
A life built here
For Imtiaz, director of a lubricants manufacturing and trading company in Ajman, and a proud member of both the Emirates Philatelic Association (EPA) and the Kerala Pravasi Philatelic and Numismatic Association (KPPNA), the gesture goes far beyond collecting stamps. For him, the UAE is home in the truest sense.
“The UAE has been my home for more than 20 years,” Imtiaz said.
“This country has given my family safety, opportunity, and a deep sense of belonging. My three children were born and raised here, and they proudly consider the UAE their home. For us, this nation is not just a place of residence; it is the foundation of our lives and future,” he said.
His journey into philately began at the age of 12, when his grandfather, C.H. Abdullah, gifted him a stamp album—an experience that sparked a lifelong passion. His interest was further encouraged by his parents, Prof. CH Ahmed Hussain and Fareena.
Today, his wife Gazna, a senior IT executive and crochet artist, along with their three children Ishaan, Ayaan, and Imaan, continue to support and share his enthusiasm for stamps and coins.
Over 35 years, Imtiaz has built an extensive philatelic collection spanning centuries, continents, and diverse materials—from stamps crafted in wood, leather, silk, bamboo, and ceramic to others embellished with Swarovski crystals, gold, silver, platinum, and even diamonds. His collection also includes stamps and coins from more than 150 countries.
Stamps of solidarity
In support of the “Proud of UAE” campaign, Imtiaz is currently showcasing a segment of his collection dedicated entirely to UAE flag-themed stamps.
Beyond UAE-issued editions, his collection also features stamps released by other countries that honour the UAE flag, reflecting international recognition and appreciation.
Among these are stamps issued by India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Algeria, Iraq, as well as the United Nations.
His collection is further enriched with first-day covers from the UAE and other countries featuring the national flag. “There is a special cover issued by India featuring the UAE flag, celebrating the enduring friendship between our nations,” he said.
Coins and NFTs too
The collection also includes rare numismatic and digital pieces. A silver commemorative coin issued on Commemoration Day features the UAE flag, while another silver coin marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the UAE.
Among the most prized items in his collection are two NFT stamps issued by the UAE. One of these is paired with a 1-gram gold bar minted with the “Spirit of the Union – Year of the 50th” logo, prominently featuring the UAE flag. The NFT stamp, priced at Dh2,021, is among the most valuable pieces in his extensive collection.
Gratitude in every stamp
Imtiaz said the timing of showcasing his collection feels particularly meaningful. Amid a period of regional uncertainty, he expressed deep appreciation for the stability and security the UAE has consistently provided.
“From the challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic to the ongoing regional tensions involving Iran, the UAE has consistently stood as a pillar of stability, security, and unity. We are sincerely thankful to the UAE government for the sense of safety and reassurance we continue to experience every day,” he said.
The Year of Family
With 2025 declared the Year of Family, Imtiaz said the occasion carries special significance for him and his family.
“The Year of Family holds special meaning for us because the UAE is truly where our family’s story belongs. Through this collection, I wish to convey a simple yet sincere message of loyalty, unity, and gratitude,” he said.
“By proudly hoisting the UAE flag and sharing this collection, we stand together in appreciation of a nation that has provided us with security, opportunity, and a place we are proud to call home,” he added.
