Dubai- Sarah Al Bakeri feels honoured to be a part of the country’s journey as it celebrates its 45th National Day today.
“Within a short period of time, the UAE’s transition from a nation of Bedouin tribes to a modern, stable, and safe country is a huge achievement and it makes us all proud,” she said.
Al Bakeri, who was born in Abu Dhabi and raised in Al Ain, later moved back to Abu Dhabi to complete her university studies and settle down.
“When I look back, I realise how my interactions with diverse nationalities has made me the person I am today.”
UAE’s cultural diversity, she said, has shaped her into an individual who finds it easy to interact and coexist with expatriates. “Consequent to that, I developed a passion to educate and present the UAE’s culture to expats to raise culture awareness,” she added.
Al Bakeri graduated with honours and has a bachelor’s degree in Information Systems Applied to Communication, and an executive master’s degree in Public Administrations from Zayed University in Abu Dhabi.
Looking back at her country’s achievements, Al Bakeri listed Shaikh Zayed’s vision for economic diversification, winning the spot to host the Expo 2020 in Dubai, along with the first Federal National Council elections as some of the country’s most important milestones.
“Launching the ‘Emirati Women’s Day’ is also a milestone that symbolises the country’s growth and support to all members of the community,” she said.
Looking back at her childhood, Al Bakeri said one of her favourite memories about her neighbourhood was the unity and strong connections between neighbours. “I remember Umm Ghaia (Mother Ghaia), one of our elder neighbours in Al Ain who used to come to my house every day with a few dirhams and chocolate from Dukan (grocery). This simple gesture of kindness has left me with an everlasting happy memory of childhood,” she said.
Her other favourite childhood memories are also of Emirati traditions and rituals, such as the custom of applying henna on the hands and feet, an Emirati tradition when celebrating a special occasion such as Eid, an engagement or a wedding and the eidiya, or getting a cash gift from elders at Eid.
Looking at the future, Al Bakeri hopes to see the UAE forever united, with Emiratis and expatriates supporting one another to further grow and prosper while living as one family. “I understand that there are cultural differences, however, we should respect and accept one another’s views and values to achieve the UAE’s vision,” she added.
Reflecting on her family’s future, Al Bakeri said her dream is to see her children and UAE youth become leaders who can give back to the country and represent it internationally on a global stage.
Like many other Emiratis, Al Bakeri considers her country a pillar of success when compared to other well-developed countries, despite it being under 45 years old. “For example, the UAE is the most competitive economy in the Arab world, and in the top 20 of the best performing economies in the world, according to a new report from the World Economic Forum,” she pointed out.
Al Bakeri said she welcomes diversity with open arms because she believes there is so much to learn and share with other cultures. “It’s healthier to have so many cultures living together in harmony for a happier and prosperous UAE.”
Al Bakeri urges those who have never visited the UAE to take a trip to this country and enjoy its unique characteristics, both traditional and modern.
