HOUSTON, TX — In a remarkable show of collaboration and cultural pride, Houston Mayor John Whitmire was the guest of honor at a distinguished dinner and fundraising evening hosted by Arab American leader Ahmad Alyasin and the Arab American Host Committee. Held at the prestigious Optima Global Financial building, the event brought together a hall filled with influential Arab American community and business leaders.
The gathering served as more than a ceremonial dinner — it was a platform for real dialogue, shared vision, and forward-thinking collaboration between the City of Houston and one of its most dynamic communities.
Ahmad Alyasin, a respected voice in the Arab Muslim community, led the initiative with a message centered on partnership, progress, and civic engagement. In his address to the audience, he extended deep gratitude to Mayor Whitmire for attending and shared a number of strategic business proposals aimed at supporting Houston’s economic and urban development. Alyasin also offered a collaborative framework between Arab American entrepreneurs and the City of Houston to help shape the city’s future.
Mayor Whitmire responded with enthusiasm and support, commending the Arab American community for its contributions to the cultural and economic fabric of the city. He voiced strong interest in the shared proposals and welcomed future collaboration, especially in light of Houston’s growing global spotlight.
“With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, this is a pivotal moment for Houston,” said Mayor Whitmire. “We have a responsibility to prepare our city — to make it cleaner, more beautiful, and more welcoming for the world. And we can only achieve that with the support of every community.”
The Mayor spent the evening moving from table to table, personally greeting each guest, engaging in thoughtful discussions, and listening to questions posed by Arab American leaders. He also took a powerful step further by encouraging members of the community to take on greater civic roles — even urging them to consider running for public office.
“I truly admire the Arab American community,” the Mayor said. “Your voice matters, and your leadership is needed—not only in business but in government.”
Adding to the night’s success, Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill served a sumptuous dinner, treating guests to some of the finest flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. The energy in the room was vibrant and purposeful, with conversations centered around progress, representation, and a shared love for the city of Houston.
The event marked a milestone in community-city relations, underlining a unified message: Houston thrives when its communities are empowered, engaged, and working together toward a common goal.
