The term “wounded testimony” is one that is used when the person testifying is either far from the truth because of a bad memory or due to deceit. This term can also be applied to testimony that is given by one who is enamored of a loved one, simply because the testimony is not objective.

However, the testimony regarding Dubai — although “wounded” by the fact that it is being delivered by one who loves the city — is a truthful one. The reality of this testimony is evident in a world where nothing is concealed from the observer, the researcher and the reader. Furthermore, it is a testimony that is backed by proof from every corner. This proof is embodied in the development and construction that is plain for all to see.

In the past, the people of the Gulf used to say “Amar Ya Dubai”, meaning that Dubai has greatly flourished and thrived. Many have used such a phrase to express the prestige of their countries and as a compliment. However, it has never been as true as it is in the case of Dubai.

“Amar Ya Dubai” is the only real way of putting it.

The construction and development in Dubai have not ceased since its emergence as an independent geographical entity in the 18th century.

Even when faced with obstacles in its path to development , Dubai never sulkedwhereas others sought to shed tears. Dubai has always risen, hurrying towards a goal that has not even been contemplated by others.

The phrase “Amar Ya Dubai” is also felt by those who intend to travel to Dubai from different locations across the globe, especially if they are flying Emirates. This airline has never stopped receiving international and local awards for excellence. It has reaped most of the international awards in its field because it is the best airline and was inspired by the notion of “Amar Ya Dubai”.

For those who have lived through Dubai’s development and those who have heard about it from others, there is unanimous agreement that “Amar Ya Dubai” is a phrase that the city deserves. This is simply because its residents have been bestowed with contentment, as they never envy each other or others, regardless of nationality, colour or religion. The motto of Dubai’s administrative system, since the early days, has been: Benefit and let others benefit as well. That is why everyone is a winner in Dubai.

The emirate’s development structure was laid down by its modern leadership, which believes in enabling the youth. Dubai has become one of the leading and most prosperous cities, where the youth have superior opportunities. That is why we find that Dubai, as a result of its leadership and youth, has reached a high pedestal.

Dubai has also shown great foresight and built an administrative system on the foundations of sustainable development, institutional excellence, and knowledge exchange. In this, the emirate has competed with highly developed countries according to international experts in these areas.

And through my research I have reached the conclusion that no place in the region has surpassed Dubai.

In the area of institutional excellence, Dubai is far ahead of the those around it; a big gap separates it from others. Its development is based on sound planning. Acquisition of knowledge in Dubai is not based on abstract theorisation; rather it is based on self learning and education, developed knowledge-exchange methods and modern mechanisms.

I was personally honoured to participate in assessing public and private establishments in Dubai and other locations, and the results have proved that Dubai is a model worth following when it comes to institutional organising.

Its standards have become no less efficient than those in Europe, the US, South Korea, Singapore or Japan.

Seeing is believing and that is why Arabs have the right to say without hesitation — “Amar Ya Dubai”.

 

Dr Khalifa Rashid Al Shaali is an Emirati writer who specialises in legal affairs.