Every week, Gulf News will give voice to stakeholders of Dubai to hear their thoughts on what makes Dubai special and why the emirate should host the 2020 World Expo.
This week, we speak to Fiona Newson-Smith from the UK who has been living in the UAE for 11 years.
Smith and her company strongly support Dubai’s bid for the Expo. She even had her nails painted with the Dubai Expo logo while being on sick leave to show support.
“Dubai to me means ‘Opportunity.’ This is a place where almost anything is possible if you have the right mindset. Here, there is a chance to travel anywhere which is something I am passionate about. There are also opportunities to try some amazing sports: falconry, quad biking, scuba, rowing, and many more.
“I learned to drive here and love zipping about town in my old 4x4. Even though some people complain the roads are crowded, I feel a sense of freedom when driving. One of my favourites is going along Shaikh Zayed Road at night with all the lights and skyscrapers. It makes you feel like you are in a thriving metropolis which is so different from where I grew up in Cambridge, UK.
“The attitude of the residents — both expatriates and locals — is Dubai’s greatest strength. It is tremendous to be able to interact with people from so many different cultures and countries. The appetite for success is formidable and I have seen friends’ businesses flourish over quite a short time. I like the fact that great chances can open up in your career as everything is so fast-paced.
“Dubai should host the Expo as there is already a strong M.I.C.E. [Meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions] sector, the city is geared up for it.”
