10 Things I love about UAE

Ten (10) Things I love about UAE

As a continuation of my 10th year anniversary of being an expat in the UAE for the past decade, I am sharing ten (10) things that I love most in the Emirates. I could give more than 10 but this are the ones that comes first.

1. Accessibility

Everything is accessible. I mean transportation is efficient and bus timing are on time. Of course not perfect but surely you can depend on it. Access to schools, hospitals, parks, malls are easy.

2. Baqala

This is a mini-store (sari-sari store) version of Abu Dhabi. So far I haven’t seen this in Dubai. But this baqala is a mini-store usually on the ground floor of a building, residential building. A store that you can just call and they will deliver it in your flat! In fact I have heard a few expats having an experience that they are even allowed to do a credit! :D How cool is that!? hehe

3. Openness to Christianity

Hats off to the rulers of this nation. Yes it is a muslim country, but they are open to other religions. In fact Catholics (and other Christian denomination) have been able to build our own churches. That is why all over the Emirates have a Roman Catholic church in their city (or even 2 & more).

4. Security & Safety

For the longest time, I praise God for the safety and security I feel whenever I go around the city. I have been able to roam around the streets (in Abu Dhabi) at 2 or 3 am and yet feel safe. With and without police presence within the city have built that secure environment and feeling to the residents.

5. Nationality Diversity

Yeah right! Aside from Indians and Filipinos – UAE has almost all nationalities around. Citizens all around the world have gathered in this nation as a melting pot to all of Arab nations, Africa and even Europe. And because of that diversity – you’ll be able to expose yourself to different cultures, language, religions and more. An opportunity to learn and get to know other people too.

6. Dubai Metro

Well, it’s only half a year that we moved here in Dubai but I have to say that Dubai metro and I have just went from complicated to “in a relationship!” hahaha … yep – my story a few months has it all. :) I would say that my 2-hour metro ride almost every Friday has made me feel at home. Read: My Love Affair with Dubai Metro.

7. Filipino shops

Opppsss, it’s not only shops but to be specific Filipino restaurants. It makes you feel like you’re home. Products from home are all around the supermarkets, baqala and other shops. It also gives me a little pride and happiness whenever I see foreign people buying our products. Bananas, pineapples, chips, shrimps, crackers, tuna, noodles and more! How lucky are we! :D So whenever I miss home, I take a walk and get into these places!

8. Fun and Adventures

Legoland, Ferari World, Warner brothers and more and more themed parks. Water parks, Desert Safari, Zip lines, Sky Dubai. If you’re not as busy as we are, these parks and fun adventurous activities will really give you a treat. So far I have ticked off a camel ride and also hopping into the world’s fastest roller coaster! :D Of course there are still more to work on. Let’s see how it goes soon…

9. It’s natural beauty

Before heading to Abu Dhabi, my picture of this place is the “desert”. To be honest in 2008, there’s already Google and I wonder why I didn’t check out the photos. Haha but here’s a story: I was packing my stuffs as I head off here in the UAE and was so worried if I should bring my high-heels shoes… I was worried it might go down with the sand… peace… I was so innocent and gullible then.. lol :D sorry about that! Only to realize that the place where I lived was all buildings and were all cemented. Poor me! ^^ Anyway – my favorite activity is the desert camping. Such a lovely view to see the serenity of the desert. An amazing gift from God to the Emiratis. Here in the UAE we can have both worlds of the buzzing city and the serenity of the desert. Such a grace!

10. CFFL community life

I know now (or at least 5-6 years ago) that I am destined to be here in the UAE. Because I am destined to be a part of CFC-FFL community, where I have been an active member and servant for almost a decade now. As an OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker), having a community life such as CFC-FFL/CFFL is a blessing. A true test of being a Christian. A true training ground of the reality of His teachings in loving our neighbors and a great reminder to prepare and be ready for the real life ahead.

These are just ten (10) of the many things I love about this nation. What are you favorites here in UAE? (Abu Dhabi/Dubai/Sharjah/Ajman/Umm Al Quwain/ Ras Al Khaimah) Comment them below…

God bless,