Bond with the UAE just as strong for expatriates

Sunday, Dec 02, 2012

Dubai: The UAE is home to expatriates who share the same bond with the country as Emiratis. Some expatriates have developed a love for the country after spending several decades while others have fallen in love with the UAE in a couple of years.

Gulf News spoke to a few, capturing the sentiment on 41st National Day.

Angela Abou Alwan, British, arrived in 1969 before the federation. In the early days, she said she was fortunate to interact with Emiratis, learn their culture, and forge lasting friendships. She said, “I am nearly 70, and I have lived in the UAE longer than any other country. I celebrate the success of the UAE, a country with which I share a strong bond.”

For Pakistani expatriate Jesse Khan, who was born in the UAE, the country has been her idea of a “home country”. Her three siblings were also born in Dubai. “Our entire family is linked to this place. We were born and raised here. I got married here. My eldest sister had her two kids here. The UAE will always connect us.”

Kezia Da Rocha, Brazilian, has lived in several countries including England, Spain, Egypt, France and the US. Yet she said connects with the UAE the most. “I find it hard to express what makes the UAE special. I have such a strong affinity to the country. One aspect is the way I feel valued as an individual,” she said.

Indian expatriate Melzer Shenoy, who moved to the UAE 20 years ago, said that the country is now his first home. “Every year, I celebrate with the UAE. My car and home is decorated with the UAE flags. My kids will get their faces painted with the colours [of the flag]. The country has provided me and my family a safe environment. This National Day is another moment of pride,” he said.

For short-term expatriates like Li Zhihui, Chinese, the UAE provides a place that is safe, stable and peaceful. “I’ve been here for a little more than a year. I feel at home here. Whenever I am asked where I am from, I proudly say, ‘From Dubai, UAE’,” he said.

By Carolina DSouza Staff Reporter

Gulf News 2012. All rights reserved.