Dubai's American Community Mardi Gras 1978

Dubai had a significant American Expatriate Community in 1978 associated with the growing local Oil and Gas Industries. Many came from Louisiana and Texas where Mardi Gras is a tradition. In 1978 the American Community organised a Dubai version of their Mardi Gras.

The Route

The Mardi Gras Parade assembled at the American School in Jumeirah then, led by the Dubai Police Pipe Band, slowly made its way around the limited roads in Jumeirah. In 1978 Jumeriah was mostly inhabited by Expatriates. Everyone came out to watch and enjoy the Parade irrespective of their Nationality.

The Parade

Truck Mounted Floats, bicycles, motorcycles, horses and people formed the Parade that slowly made its way along Jumeirah Beach Road.

The Mardi Gras Parade did not have a Dubai Police Traffic Escort. In those days the traffic along Jumeirah Beach Road was sparse. Despite its success, the American Community did not hold another Mardi Gras Parade.

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