From strangers to lifesavers: How UAE neighbours provide support in urban life

Dubai: How well do you know your neighbours? In today’s fast-paced, cosmopolitan world, where everyone is busy with their careers and daily routines, one essential aspect of life is often overlooked: the connections with your neighbours. Building a relationship with the person next door can provide invaluable support in times of need.

Charlotte Galardo, who moved to Abu Dhabi from London about a year ago, has found the residents, especially her neighbours, to be very welcoming and supportive.

“Relocating to a new country isn’t easy, especially when you don’t know anyone, but having the support of such kind and friendly neighbours has been a huge relief. It’s a testament to the strong sense of community here. We’re grateful to be a part of it.”

Galardo, who works as a relationship manager, pointed out how quickly even new tenants have become good neighbours.

“We share a great relationship with our neighbours on our floor, including Frank and his family, who recently moved in. They reached out by sharing a thoughtful welcome note and chocolates to introduce themselves. We were happy to reciprocate and offered our support, especially as they were preparing to welcome their newborn, who has now arrived,” Galardo said.

‘He saved me’

Rajendra Singh Yadav, a 50-year-old project manager in Dubai, is a living example of the importance of having a friendly neighbour, especially during unexpected emergencies. Yadav, a diabetic who also suffers from kidney and heart issues, was living alone when he found himself in a life-threatening situation.

“One late night, I had a sudden increase in my heart rate and difficulty breathing. I was gasping for air, and my oxygen level dropped,” Yadav recalled.

After struggling with breathlessness for a few hours, he called his neighbour and friend, Sandeep Chandrani, at 2 am, who immediately rushed him to the hospital.

“I was put on life support and given immediate treatment. The doctors told me that if I had arrived just a few minutes later, it could have been too late,” Yadav said, noting that he has known Chandrani for the past seven years. “He saved my life that day.”

‘Sense of security’

Having reliable neighbours not only provides support in times of crisis but offers a sense of security. This is especially true for working parents, who often rely on their neighbours to keep an eye on their children during the day.

“We are working parents, and as a psychologist, my schedule is often packed. There are days when I leave home early and return late. My biggest concern has always been my daughter being alone at home during those hours. Thankfully, my neighbour, an Emirati lady, regularly checks in on her, makes sure she’s okay, and even keeps an eye on things when I’m away,” said Siji Ravindran.

She underlined that this deep connection was built over time, as casual chats in the hallways evolved into bonds of trust. “Knowing someone nearby who genuinely cares have eased my anxieties and created a sense of security I can’t put a price on,” Ravindran noted.

‘A true blessing’

Long-time residents, like Ami Rasheed, a life clarity coach, pointed out that having like-minded neighbours is a true blessing.

“We have an Egyptian family as our neighbours, who often takes my daughter and son, along with her children, to the nearby parks. In turn, we take their children on our outings. That’s the kind of trust we’ve developed.”

Rasheed noted that amid the stress and pressures of city life, having meaningful connections provides an outlet to share feelings and emotions, creating a sense of belonging and relief.

“Strong connections with neighbours in urban life are not just a luxury, but a necessity. They ground us, provide support in tough times, and remind us that even amid the city’s hustle, we are not alone. Building relationships with our neighbours can transform our urban experience from isolating to enriching,” Rasheed added.

Stronger together

Ravindran, a clinical psychologist, noted that having a small network of trusted neighbours can reduce feelings of stress and loneliness while improving emotional resilience.

“The challenges of not knowing your neighbours are subtle but significant. In times of emergencies – be it a health scare, a power outage, or even emotional distress – not having someone nearby to lean on can intensify feelings of isolation.”

Ravindran added that building bonds with neighbours doesn’t just provide practical support but also creates emotional safety nets that make urban living far more manageable and fulfilling.