I moved to the UAE in 1993 when I was just 18-months-old. Now, in my 27th year as a Dubai resident, I am putting my faith and my trust in this county more than ever.
I remember when the Burj Al Arab was built; I remember when Al Barsha seemed like the furthest place on the planet; I remember graduating from Jumeirah College; I remember when Al Reef Lebanese Bakery and Antar Cafeteria were the local hangouts.
In another 27 years, I will remember when the government told us all to #StayHome, and I will remember why we listened.
A powerful video that speaks to our uncertain times, there’s never been a more pertinent moment for the UAE Nation Brand to release an uplifting video that brings communities together. “Can a person trust a country?” At a time when the world is facing one of its biggest challenges, the opening question posed is an important one.
The video highlights moments throughout the Covid-19 crisis, with snaps of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on a Zoom with his diplomats to one of the many frontline workers working on the city’s sterilisation programme. And it highlights the more nostalgic, familiar and sentimental UAE we love; the burnt orange sand dunes of the desert, the Dubai Fountains, Kite Beach.
Can a person trust a country?
Can 10 million trust a country?
Pandemic or not, Dubai – UAE – you have my trust.