His philosophy is simple - look at the sunny side of life

Dubai: The daily stress of driving in the Dubai traffic does not seem to affect cabbie Ahmad Saleh, who always sees the positive side of things: "It has given me a job and will help provide my sons a more rewarding one in the future," he says.

"I am glad and thankful to Almighty God for giving me the opportunity to work in the UAE," he said while pointing out that his serenity comes from his simple outlook on life.

"I had to drop out of school after higher elementary level because of our poverty. Hopefully my kids will have the chance to pursue higher education," he said.

Dedication

Saleh said he dreams to see his elder son become a doctor. "It is a good profession and he would be able help people who are sick."

He is the father of two sons, aged 5 and 16. Saleh said he hoped for years to work in any of the Gulf countries to help support his wife and two sons, who are currently residing in Yemen.

The cab driver feels that a good employee is a person who is dedicated to his job and one who is ethical. "Sincere dedication always pays off," he said.

Asked what he thinks about ambition, he said ambition goes hand in hand with contentment, as it is a driving force to reach your ultimate goal, said the 45-year-old who recently won the Dubai Government Excellence Award from His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Saleh has been working as a taxi driver for Dubai Transport for the past decade. The hard working Yemeni said he is honoured to be among the 25 "Unsung Heroes."

The award includes a cash prize and a promotion. A Dh50,000 cash prize is also a part of a package of incentives decreed by Shaikh Mohammad. In all there are 22 award winners, in addition to 11 'innovators' and 25 "Unsung Heroes."