Suhail Muhammad Al-Zarooni, a prominent UAE businessman and Chairman of the Al-Zarooni Group, has sought the intervention of Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, regarding the alleged occupation of “Masjid-e-Sakina Sultan” in Karachi’s Defence Phase 8.
The mosque, built in 2006, was dedicated to Mr. Al-Zarooni’s late mother, Sakina Sultan, with funds provided by the UAE. In his letter to the COAS, Al-Zarooni revealed that the mosque has been occupied and that the group currently in possession has been soliciting donations under the guise of a fake NGO using his late mother’s name.
He emphasized that the mosque’s maintenance is fully funded by him and strictly prohibits external donations. “It is disheartening to see the mosque, which was meant to honor my late mother, being exploited in such a manner,” Al-Zarooni said.
Despite reaching out to several authorities, including the Defense Housing Authority (DHA), Corps Commander Sindh, DG Rangers Sindh, and Sindh’s top officials, Al-Zarooni stated that his appeals have largely been met with consolations rather than action.
He particularly criticized the DHA for delays in addressing the issue, alleging that the committee managing the mosque, led by Imran Qureshi, is linked to the occupation. Highlighting the UAE Royal Family’s extensive philanthropic work in Pakistan, including the construction of over 1,000 mosques, Mr. Al-Zarooni expressed concern that such incidents could discourage future welfare initiatives by Emirati businessmen.
“Emirati support has been instrumental in uplifting communities across Pakistan, but incidents like this undermine trust and collaboration,” he said. He reiterated his appeal to General Asim Munir, emphasizing the importance of returning “Masjid-e-Sakina Sultan” to its rightful management to restore Emirati confidence in Pakistan as a partner for welfare projects.
The resolution of this issue, he stated, is crucial for maintaining strong Pakistan-UAE ties and ensuring the continued support of Emirati businessmen for development and philanthropy in Pakistan.
