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This is my home away from home, and it has encapsulated notions of Diversity, Unity, Belonging, Advancement, and Integrity.
Living in Dubai has been a rewarding choice that I made five years ago. Though I left my home to establish a new safe space in another country, it was not an easy decision. Thankfully, I realised the numerous opportunities this city had to offer for a newcomer like me within the first few days; life changed after that.
Continuing in the field of PR in a cosmopolitan city like Dubai, I grew to learn of the various industries residing here, some between the small stretch from the iconic World Trade Centre roundabout until the first intersection alone!
From breaking numerous Guinness World Records, especially during the Year of Zayed, to being ranked one of the smartest cities in the world, living in Dubai has been an amazing experience that has proven to be a place where dreams can turn into reality.
As much as I love the city, however, it does not come without its challenges, each of which helped me grow. Working with people from around the world and accepting their diverse backgrounds helped me expand upon my knowledge as much as my senses of perseverance and patience were strengthened under the burden of long-distance relationships with family and friends. Nevertheless, Dubai soon became my home away from home.
Now, I will share insights on some of Dubai’s achievements that changed our way of life in the city.
Recognitions:
Going back to the tallest building in the world to constructing the museum of the future, Dubai has topped the charts as one of the most-visited cities. Dubai is also recognised for its innovations and advancements in areas like artificial intelligence and in introducing smart technologies across the city. Dubai International Airport is considered one of the world’s busiest airports for international traffic and has implemented technologies, such as the smart gate and sophisticated motion sensor systems that tracks bottlenecks and quickly alerts teams to take action. Dubai continues to lead the way and stay ahead of the game. A recent study revealed that the Emirate topped Middle East and North African cities in the Smart Cities Index 2019, positioning it among the top 15 globally. The Index ranks cities based on how they responded to social, economic, and environmental challenges through the effective use of new technology.
Convenience:
From connectivity through public transportation to providing housing facilities that are smart as well as affordable, we enjoy the comfortable facilities on offer in the city. The city also prides itself with its initiatives towards a sustainable living with places such as The Sustainable City where residents are encouraged to grow their own plants and help create sustainable energy in various forms. Dubai is effectively leading the way for a longer future for the planet.
Cultural connectivity:
Be it educational or cultural, Dubai never stopped stunning me with its offerings with activities that cater to all age groups. Art & culture events are predominant in this region, and as such we see exhibitions that grant artists the opportunity to showcase their work while connecting various communities together. Additionally, you don’t have to travel the world to taste different cuisines; Dubai is a land of opportunities that plays host to many cuisines from different parts of the world, and we are lucky to get a taste of it all.
As a throwback to my opening statement, Dubai makes every possible effort to give you a sense of belonging.
Lovelyn Rodrigues is Senior Account Executive at Cicero & Bernay Public Relations, an independent PR agency headquartered in Dubai offering new-age public relations consultancy to the UAE and across the MENA region. | www.cbpr.me