Hundreds of individuals gathered as mourners to honor the passing of a Dubai-based expatriate who embraced Islam shortly before her demise. Daria Kotsarenko, a 29-year-old Ukrainian woman, breathed her last in Dubai on Friday, mere days after embracing Islam on March 25. Her unexpected departure is attributed to a heart attack.
Faris Al Hammadi, an imam in Dubai and a creator of Islamic content, recounted that Daria initially arrived in Dubai three years ago, displaying a genuine interest in the local culture and religion. This led her to embark on thorough research, pose inquiries, and delve into her quest for knowledge.
Reflecting on her character, Al Hammadi remarked, “Even prior to embracing Islam, Daria was recognized for her modesty. She lived a life of virtue, free from any forbidden relationships, and dressed modestly. She refrained from alcohol and other prohibited activities.”
The imam further lauded her, stating, “Her embrace of Islam was commendable,” indicating her admirable acceptance of Islam and dedication to its principles.
The woman had no family or relatives in the country. However, hundreds of people — both Emiratis and expatriates — turned up as she was laid to rest in Dubai’s Al Qusais Cemetery.
The news of Daria’s passing brought sadness to residents, both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Messages of condolence and sympathy flooded the Emirates, accompanied by a sense of rejoicing for her. The community found solace in the fact that she passed away during the blessed month of Ramadan, shortly after her conversion to Islam.
“Oh God, she died after converting to Islam when she was 29 years old. She went to God and her paper was pure white,” said @Saad_turkmeni on X. Another person @LuayPrince commented, “May God have mercy on her. Congratulations to her on winning the true path. May God grant her Paradise.”
The imam in his viral video also praised those who played a role in her journey to Islam, highlighting the support and teachings she received from individuals who remained steadfast even after her untimely death.
Scores of mourners arrive
Emiratis and expats gathered at Al Qusais cemetery mosque to offer funeral prayers for the woman on Friday, as seen in the photos shared by janaza_uae. Daria’s story had touched many, leading to a massive crowd at the funeral prayers for her on Friday.
The woman also had no family or relatives in Dubai, janaza_uae said in a post on X, prompting an outpouring of grief, love, and support.
Here are photos of the crowd during her funeral, as shared on X:
Daria arrived in the UAE as a tourist and eventually started looking for a job, according to several social media sources. During her search, she encountered not only career opportunities but also the beauty of Islam.
A widely shared document indicated that Darya was a Christian who converted to Islam in Dubai on March 25. Her death was believed to have been caused by a heart attack. As a new Muslim in Ramadan, she was fasting when she died.
