Celebrating the UAE

International interaction has shaped this region for many millennia and it is fitting that global confidence in its economy and society marks the UAE’s 41st National Day. The security the country offers extends beyond the economic. The UAE provides people from other parts of this volatile region and beyond an accepting cultural and social milieu to build their lives in. Here’s what National Day means for a few Emiratis and expats. . Faisal Jasem Emirati, Dubai. "National Day is a celebration of our young country’s achievements. I have been away from the UAE for three and a half years, studying in the US. I found Dubai to be more cosmopolitan than when I left, and it has found its core competencies since the financial crisis. This makes me feel confident about its future.My family, my background and culture are all here. Dubai is a story I am and will continue to be a part of. I want to be a part of its success and want to give back to it as much as it has given me.". Mohammad Kazim Emirati, Abu Dhabi. "I was away for eight years, during which I studied and worked in the US, and returned at the peak of the crisis. On National Day, I usually take a trip around the emirates to remind myself of the benefits of this union. The UAE has instilled in us a desire to contribute to its development, and I believe it has strong fundamentals that will allow it to navigate ups and downs and prevail. That is why I believe my future lies here.". Amerah Al Dahmani Emirati, Abu Dhabi. "I’m doing a master’s in engineering systems and management at the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. The institute represents an incredible opportunity for me to witness the birth of a new era of living in a green, sustainably minded community. I’m very proud to be a part of the Masdar initiative and proud to be a part of Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030. The UAE has a very dynamic and diversified economy. Its international outlook, strategic location and excellent infrastructure are attracting jobseekers and investors from all over the world. I’m eager to serve my country.". Yousuf Al Hashimi Emirati, Dubai. "I was studying and living in Montreal, Canada, for three and a half years and returned to Dubai in December 2007, during the boom years of the real estate sector. It was an exciting yet intimidating time for a fresh graduate looking to set up his own business. I’m a co-founder and managing partner at Ahdaaf Sports Club, owned by four young Emirati guys and run by me. I set up Ahdaaf as soon as I graduated, and then worked for the government for three years, before finally deciding to return to entrepreneurship .National Day reminds me of the strong union that is the UAE. I have never thought my future does not lie in Dubai. It is a living, breathing example of how people from diverse cultural, religious and racial backgrounds can live side by side.". Ali Hasnain Pakistani, Sharjah. "The UAE is one of the most beautiful and successful combinations of modernism, cultural heritage and religious principles. Its Islamic principles and constant improvements provide every individual the opportunity for a safe and happy life, to educate and earn, live and work in Sharjah. It is the best place for people like me who want a quiet life. Apart from the benefits of cheap living, there is also Sharjah’s traditional architecture, less traffic and evening walks around the Corniche with my wife and son. National Day is a day of inspiration for all other nationalities. I see the UAE as a place where I can not only progress in my career but its multicultural social life can educate me and my family every day.". Tania Jarjur Syrian-Lebanese, Abu Dhabi. "I was born and raised in Abu Dhabi and moved to the US in 2003 for university. I moved back in March, and found the country very changed. The only national anthem I know is that of the UAE. The safety, security and education it has provided could not have been had elsewhere. It is such a melting pot. I have friends from all over the world, which brings with it the greatest lesson of understanding and acceptance. National Day is a great celebration. It’s crazy to think this country is actually younger than my parents and not that much older than me. Since I’ve been gone, this country has developed a nice foundation of training and experience that allows for a younger working demographic. I am quite happy spending the next phase of my life here.". Ahlam Abdul Samad Jordanian, Sharjah. "I’ve been living in the UAE since April and I love it here. I was born and raised in the Virgin Islands, have lived in Texas in the US and moved to Jordan in 2001. What I love most about Sharjah is its originality and working with my amazing colleagues. Everyone is happy and friendly. Celebrating UAE National Day is a way to thank and show appreciation for the country you are living in, whether you are a citizen or a resident. The security that this country offers and the space that the UAE provides are limitless.". Alienor Chatin French, Dubai . "I’ve been living in Dubai since August, having first visited the emirate in 2009. The UAE National Day promotes cultural pride among the locals and brings warmth to expatriates like me. As a business and marketing student, I can see that Dubai offers a huge opportunity for beginners like me to find a decent job and quality of life. I believe companies in Dubai have bounced back from the global economic recession and that is a great factor to consider in future plans.". Aamer Siddiqui Indian, Dubai. "Dubai has always fascinated and attracted me, and now that I’m here I can say it is the most exciting place to be. It’s full of life, it’s magical. Places such as the Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Aside from the fact that it’s a holiday, National Day is a time of pride and a celebration of the UAE. I feel at home here in Dubai and I’m looking forward to National Day, as I have heard a lot about it.". Ganem Al Qasim Emirati, Dubai. "I have been away from the UAE for about five years, pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering. Upon my return, I found Dubai as wonderful as it has always been, constantly rising to lead the entire Middle East. National Day reminds me and every UAE citizen of the huge role played by its founding fathers and the current leadership in developing the country and achieving its status in the world today. I am proud and honoured to be a part of the future of the UAE."