Hazara in United Arab Emirates

People Name:	Hazara
Country:	United Arab Emirates
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	96,000
World Population:	4,449,300
Primary Language:	Hazaragi
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Portions
Online Audio NT:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Persian
Affinity Bloc:	Persian-Median
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Hazaras are from central Afghanistan, and they stand out as different than the other peoples of that country. They are among the only Shi 'ite Muslims in Afghanistan, which sometimes puts them at odds with the Sunni Muslim majority.

Unlike other peoples of Afghanistan, the Hazaras have Asian facial features. This suggests that they are descent from Mongol soldiers left behind by Genghis Khan in the 1200s.

Persecution has shaped and defined the Hazaras, particularly over the last 200 years. More than half were massacred in 1893. Later fundamentalist governments, including the Taliban, attempted to deny their historical, political, and cultural worth. They have been physically attacked and denied political power, though they are among the largest minorities in Afghanistan. Under these circumstances, many have fled to places like the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Where Are they Located?

Most of the people of the UAE are non-citizens, including the Hazaras, who migrated from Afghanistan or Pakistan. Most likely the Hazaras live in Dubai, the economic capital of the UAE.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Hazaras in the UAE are from many walks of life. Some are unskilled workers, while others have high-paying jobs. There are many notable Hazaras who are well educated.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The majority of the people of the UAE are Sunni Muslim, but there is a strong Shi 'ite minority, which includes the Hazara people. Though they are less numerous than the Sunni Muslim majority, there are peaceful relations between the two religious communities in the UAE.

What Are Their Needs?

The Hazaras need a peaceful place to raise their families and earn a good living. They also need a place where they can safely hear about Jesus and follow Him.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Hazaras to find safe refuge and good jobs in the UAE.
Pray for the Hazaras in the UAE to have the chance to hear about Jesus and respond to His invitation to become part of the Kingdom of God.
Pray for a church planting movement among the Hazaras in the UAE.