Media Release
Dammam, Oct 6: The silver jubilee celebration of World Goa Day 2025 will make history in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as United Goans of Saudi Arabia are organizing a mega event for the first time. Mark Revlon, the Global Goan iconic singing sensation will mesmerize the crowd with his melodious voice for World Goa Day 2025 on October 10, at the Novotel Hotel Dammam, Saudi Arabia from 7 pm onwards, organized by United Goans of Saudi Arabia. Mark Revlon is a self-taught musician, a music producer and has a band named Mark Revlon Band which is one of the most popular bands in Goa. He has performed and enthralled audiences in USA, England, Scotland, Canada, Australia, Italy, Kazakhstan, Bahrain, Oman, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait, India and in particular GOA.
Qatar based DJ Flossie, hailing from the vibrant shores of Benaulim, Goa, will set the floor on fire. DJ Flossie covers music from genres like retro, pop, Latin, reggae, blues, rock, metal, Bollywood and many more. 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. A gifted personality with natural communicating skills par excellence, Updesh redefines professionalism and poise on and off stage. Having had a highly popular and successful run at the top, Updesh is famed for his unique approach towards each event, giving attention to detailing.
Mark Revlon and Updesh Swar are flying for the first time to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to keep the Goan flag flying high in the Kingdom during the silver jubilee celebration of World Goa Day 2025.
Simon D’Silva, president of Global Goan Association and Goan Welfare Association, Qatar has kindly consented to be the chief guest and Jude Coutinho, general manager of Logosjes Techno, Bahrain will be the guest of honour.
The United Goans of Saudi Arabia (UGSA) was founded in 2012 with the vision of bringing Goans together, fostering a spirit of unity, and preserving Goan culture and values for future generations. The association works to facilitate networking among Goans in the region, provide support in times of need, and create 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 challenges.
In its continued effort to keep the Goan banner flying high in Saudi Arabia, UGSA is proudly organizing the first-ever mega celebration of World Goa Day in the Kingdom. This historic event that celebrates 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 neighboring GCC countries, making it a true showcase of Goan unity and culture beyond borders. The dress code will be formal.
Edson Fernandes, hailing from the quaint Goan village of Seraulim, has built an inspiring journey that spans over two decades abroad. Beginning his career in UAE. Fernandes went on to work in Qatar before moving to the United States, where he specialized in the piping industry. Today, he is based in Saudi and serves as regional director for a leading American firm in the oil and gas sector in the Middle East, exemplifying dedication, expertise, and leadership.
Yet, the story is not just about professional achievement—it is equally about service to the community. Wherever life has taken him, he has carried with him the Goan spirit of togetherness. During his time in Qatar, he served as director of sports with the Goan Welfare Association, and today, he continues that legacy as president of the United Goans of Saudi Arabia (UGSA).
As Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the World Cup in 2034, UGSA is aligning with this spirit of growth and global vision. For the first time, the association is set to host a Gala World Goa Day 2025, a milestone of silver jubilee celebration that reflects the vibrant culture and resilience of Goans living in Saudi Arabia.
Besides World Goa Day, the organization also celebrates cherished traditions such as the feast of St Francis Xavier, Sao Joao, and Goan Sports Day, keeping the cultural flame alive far from home.
World Goa Day celebrations are perhaps the only global events that remind Goans of their identity; the festivities provide an opportunity for everyone to dive into the state’s traditional roots and culture. Celebrating World Goa Day, observed every year on August 20, marks a moment of cultural pride and unity for Goans around the world. Though living in different countries across the continents, the heart of every Goan still beats for Goa.
The World Goa Day commemorates the historic inclusion of the Konkani language in the eight schedules of the Indian constitution on August 20, 1992. That was the long-awaited day when Konkani got due recognition as an official language in India.
Global Goan Association’s president Simon D’Silva and its Saudi regional director, Edson Fernandes will highlight with a presentation to Saudi Goans about the need of dual citizenship and the approach to demand dual citizenship with the Government of India.
Under the stewardship of Simon D’Silva, the Global Goan Association stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Goan community. It is a beacon of unity, advocacy, and support for Goans globally, embodying their collective resilience and aspirations.
This initiative is not just a network; it is a homecoming of hearts and hopes, bridging continents and uniting Goans under a shared sky of cultural heritage and mutual support.