The Silver Jubilee Celebration of World Goa Day 2025 will make history in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as United Goans of Saudi Arabia (UGSA) organise a mega event for the first time. This historic event, celebrating the Silver Jubilee Anniversary globally this year, will bring Goans together from across Saudi Arabia, with the main celebration taking place in Dammam. The occasion is also expected to welcome guests from neighbouring GCC countries, making it a true showcase of Goan unity and culture beyond borders.
The United Goans of Saudi Arabia was founded in 2012 with the vision of bringing Goans together. The association facilitates networking among Goans in the region, provides support in times of need, and creates opportunities for cultural and social engagements. Currently led by Edson Fernandes, President of UGSA, the committee is striving to strengthen UGSA as more than just an association — building it into a close-knit family and a strong pillar of support for Goans in Saudi Arabia, both in times of joy and in moments of challenge.
Besides World Goa Day, the organisation also celebrates cherished traditions such as the Feast of St Francis Xavier, São João, and Goan Sports Day, keeping the cultural flame alive far from home.
Edson Fernandes, from Seraulim, has built an inspiring journey spanning over two decades abroad. Beginning his career in the UAE, Fernandes went on to work in Qatar before moving to the United States. Today, he is based in Saudi Arabia and serves as Regional Director for a leading American firm in the oil and gas sector. During his time in Qatar, he served as Director of Sports with the Goan Welfare Association, and today continues that legacy as President of the United Goans of Saudi Arabia (UGSA). As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the World Cup in 2034, UGSA is aligning with this spirit of growth and global vision.
For the first time, Mark Revlon will mesmerise the crowd with his melodious voice for World Goa Day 2025 on October 10, at Novotel Hotel Dammam, Saudi Arabia, from 7 pm onwards. Mark Revlon is a musician, music producer, and leads the Mark Revlon Band. Qatar-based DJ Flossie, from Benaulim, will set the floor on fire. Saudi-based DJ Vax will be an added attraction along with the local live band Staccato. Staccato has gained viral reputation in the live music scene with their impressive musicianship, dynamic performances, and captivating stage presence. The event will be hosted by Goa’s top host and ace compere Updesh Swar.
Simon D’Silva, President of Goan Welfare Association, Qatar, will be the Chief Guest, and Jude Coutinho from Bahrain will be the Guest of Honour. Global Goan Association President Simon D’Silva and Saudi Regional Director Edson Fernandes will deliver a presentation to Saudi Goans about the need for dual citizenship and the approach to demand dual citizenship with the Government of India.
