THE ABU DHABI EXPERIENCE, the Beginning in a Special Series of blog posts

I am starting a special series of blog posts that particularly addresses living in Abu Dhabi – the ups and down of every day life and especially the cultural aspects of living in the Middle East.  My son’s girlfriend Caitlyn, a student at Valdosta State University, recently asked me to participate in a school project that focuses on cultural diversity.  Since she has visited us in the UAE and found the culture interesting, she chose to make this her topic as she has an “insider” view of what it is really like to live here. 

I am extremely happy she asked me to be a part of her project because I am always eager to talk about my experiences here because they are so positive.  Everyone thinks living here is a negative experience in an oppressive society, and I enjoy the opportunity to tell others living here is not what they imagine. 

I invited Caitlyn to take a look at my blog, if she hadn’t already, in an effort to give her more insight (which she really already has) or use as a reference tool.  She promptly sent me a list of questions to start our discussion.  As I read through them, I had an epiphany.   Why not use these discussions as fodder for my blog postings?  Her questions really get to the root of what it is like living as an expat in a strange land.  I’m always looking for something to write about and keep me posting----something I fail miserably at--- so I decided to make this project a series of discussions based on the questions Caitlyn asks me. 

While there are a few ---and I mean only a few----downsides to living in Abu Dhabi, I rarely talk about them because it defeats the purpose of having a blog promoting expat living in the Middle East.  However, I will give an honest assessment of my experiences---good and bad.  I make an effort to look at all the good things associated with living in a foreign land and make the best of things.  Even in my homeland, all is not perfect only different.  Everyone is not nice, everything is not just right, everyone does not speak English (any more), and some people are short-sighted.  I emphasis the word different because that is all it is.  Not the same.  Something new.  Yes, challenging at times (and maybe more often than not to some), but I have adjusted.  Everyone does eventually, some taking longer than others.  My adjustment period to a new place is about six months.  I begin to feel comfortable and know my way around “knowing the lay of the land” so to speak. 

My mantra is this when taking on a new country:  Go with no expectations.  Then everything will exceed your expectations.  By this I mean, do not expect too much and you will not be blindsided.  Then, most things will be a positive experience.  It’s simple. 

You would be surprised at how not simple people find this idea.  I believe if you arrive expecting to dislike a place, you will.  Plain and simple.  I have seen it over and over as we have traveled and lived in other countries.  It is a self-fulfilling prophecy. 

So, as I explore and dwell on the questions Caitlyn puts forth, some of my readers might be surprised at the quality of life, others not so much.   Read and form an opinion.  And I really, really hope it is a good one. 

My Hero --A Great American Patriot

For the last few weeks, I've had someone on my mind.

I have been seeing CSI New York on TV more than usual which sparked me to think about Gary Sinise, the star of the show.  I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Sinise on two occasions, once in Aviano, Italy at Hubby's flying squadron when Mr. Sinise was touring Europe and made an unannounced visit to the squadron, and the other time at a VIP event at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii just prior to a Lt. Dan Band Concert.

The video of his 60 Minutes interview is pretty incredible.  It's well worth watching.  You get to see the kind of man he really is when Hollywood is not around.  He's not about Hollywood.  At all.  Not even a little bit.

I love this man!  Despite his stardom, he's a humble man dedicated to making the lives of our service personnel better.  He quietly goes about his work.  He asks for no accolades.  He just does what needs to be done.  He has no problem asking others to help him.  He has a purpose and has staked out his claim.

He does so much for the military---it's actually pretty incredible how much time he devotes to representing the cause of military both active duty, retired, and disabled veterans.  The Gary Sinise Foundation celebrates two years of serving our military families and wounded warriors.  I cannot say enough good things about the work this man does.  He has an A List of corporate sponsors behind him who are dedicated to our military families.   Take a look at the Foundation's Blog and see for yourself what they have accomplished in two years.

The interviewer said to him, "you're a big shot actor, and this is what makes you feel important."  His response was, "it makes you get out of yourself."

 Mr. Sinise knows what is really important.  He believes you cannot forget your Defenders.

In 2009, Mr. Sinise filmed an exclusive documentary with Fox News entitled "On the Road in Iraq With Our Troops and Gary Sinise."  His personal goal was to shake 5000 hands, and go 2000 miles in seven days.  He did it.  It is a moving documentary.


I know Mr. Sinise will never know who I am or know how much I appreciate his work.  However, I want to tell as many people as I can about him and his Foundation.  He is a person that REALLY makes a difference and goes about his daily life doing good.  He's a Saint in my book.

Gary Sinise will go down in history because he believed in a cause---not because he was a television and movie star.  A few others went on before him --- Bob Hope and Jerry Lewis are two that come quickly to mind.  They cut the mold.  No one knew how to do it before them.  They got in and figured it out.  Mr. Sinise has stepped into some big boots and is doing just fine.  Actually, I think he has fined tuned it.

I feel fortunate to have met him and had the opportunity to shake his hand.

The Mission:

“Freedom and security are precious gifts that we, as Americans, should never take for granted. We must do all we can to extend our hand in times of need to those who willingly sacrifice each day to provide that freedom and security. While we can never do enough to show our gratitude to our nation's defenders, we can always do a little more” -GARY SINISE

"It's very important that we give back to these volunteers who serve our nation because they're on the front lines for us, and they need to know we care," he said. "Perhaps one of the reasons that I've jumped on board so strongly for the USO, and for supporting the service members in this time of war, is that I do remember how our Vietnam veterans were treated when they came home, and we can never let that happen again."  Air Force Link, November 3, 2004





"Lt. Dan Band: For The Common Good" is an exceptional full-length documentary movie that rallies all who experience it around our flag, our nation, and the men and women who selflessly serve our country and daily place themselves in harm's way.

Ramadan - The Holy Month

On our flight back from the US the other day,  I popped a piece of gum in my mouth as we began our decent into Abu Dhabi and offered one to my Hubby.  We both began to chew frantically hoping to reduce the pressure in our ears as we were lowered nearer the airport.  After a few minutes, Hubby tapped me on the shoulder and shoved a tissue into my face and gesturing with his hands to put my gum in the tissue.  We had forgotten Ramadan!  And chewing gum in public is forbidden during Ramadan.  Whew!  That would have been a bad thing to do.

Not that anyone would have said anything but it would have been disrespectful to chew gum in public.
So I pulled out my Ramadan Guidebook to remind me of the do's and don'ts during Ramadan.

A few rules to remember during Ramadan

• Don’t eat or drink in the presence of Muslims during the daylight hours.  Muslims are fasting during daylight hours and are strictly forbidden to take anything by mouth.

• Most restaurants are open only after sunset during Ramadan.

• Don’t have food or snacks in plain sight during Ramadan.

• Don’t smoke or chew gum in the presence of Muslims during Ramadan.

• Don’t use profane words or gestures during Ramadan.

• Most women will be veiled and covered throughout this time.

• Muslim families will gather together daily after sundown to celebrate the end of the fast.  Don’t be alarmed if you see large groups of families gathering in homes or mosques.

• Expect celebratory gunfire during Eid al-Fitr. 

Avoid the following cultural insensitivities:

• Do not be seen consuming alcohol.

• No Smoking in Public (you will be issued a citation and

  fined for smoking or drinking)

• Profane or derogatory gestures.

• Arguing and shouting.

• Loud music and profane language.

• Eating meals in the presence of Muslims during daylight – also you will not find a restaurant open during the daylight.

Some may think that Ramadan is oppressive, but actually it is not.  Yes, having to search for a restaurant that is open during Ramadan (usually one that can seal off the diners from public view) in the daylight hours is somewhat daunting and an inconvenience, however, Ramadan is not all that bad.  I find that I want to stay indoors during this time of year anyway because of the heat.  So I don't get out as much.   Ramadan is much harder for Hubby as he works in an office environment where he is the only American and Non-Muslim.  So, he must be very respectful and not eat or drink during the day.   The last two mornings I have prepared him a hardy breakfast with lots of protein in hopes of helping him make it through the day.  Fortunately, his work day ends at 2:00 and Ramadan hours have him going in to the office much later around 9:00.  

One thing that is nice about Ramadan is the focus on charitable initiatives.  Many charitable organizations around the country distribute Iftar meals (the breaking of fast meal after sunset each day) to the poor and needy.  Ramadan definitely highlights the spirit of giving of the season---much like western nations during the Christmas season.  

Two organizations I have read about recently is The Community Development Authority and the Khalifa Foundation.

     The CDA has a Ramadan campaign that includes serving Iftar meals, giving essential food baskets, and visiting the elderly.  The month long program is called Yestahloon (colloquial for "well deserved") and is held in collaboration with 23 social clubs and private sector organizations.  At least 1.5 million Dirhams ($408K) of donations will be used to reach the blue collar workers, families, and elderly around Dubai.  For example, one company provides money, another prepares the food, and another delivers it.  Volunteers do a ton of the work.  

                 The Khalifa Foundation hosts its fourth annual Ramadan Iftar initiative serving nearly 1.76 million Iftar meals  throughout the UAE during Ramadan.  Amazing.  1.76 million meals!  Empowering 600 Emirati families.  Here's how it works:

Lower income families are encouraged to prepare Iftar meals for Muslims and the foundation provides them with the ingredients.  The objective is to distribute 58,700 iftar meals daily.  This helps boost the family's income and encourage them to set up a business that will help with financial independence.  The foundation provides the ingredients and services.  They have inspection teams from the Foundation and the Public Safety making random visits to ensure food safety.

I am always amazed at the enormity of these projects.  The Sheikh Zayed Mosque here in Abu Dhabi serves thousands of meals each evening for all the laborers in the city.  I have never been but I have seen some amazing photos of the event.  The city also provides free bus transportation from the labor camps to the Mosque for worship and Iftar meals. 

We are heading to a local restaurant with friends on Thursday night for an Iftar celebration.  It is a chance to celebrate with the  Muslim community and participate in an event that is a cherished celebration throughout the country.  Lavish buffets are served in restaurants throughout the community to allow the Muslim community to participate in their traditions.  It is truly a unique experience and one that expatriates love to share.  

Ramadan Kareem!

Biggest, Brightest, Tallest, Best in the World

Once again Dubai plans to put the country on the map by adding to the repertoire of biggest, brightest, tallest, and best in the world by announcing several mega-projects this past week adding to its laundry list of landmarks.   Sheikh Mohammad, Ruler of Dubai,  has approved plans for a 10 billion dirham ($2.7bn) development linking five theme parks to include the movie-based Dubai Adventure Studios and a theme park based around Bollywood movies (constructed by Meraas Development, owned by Sheikh Mohammad) ; the construction of the new Mohammad bin Rashid City, which will include a Universal Studios theme park and the world's largest shopping mall;  the Dubai Adventure Studios Fun Park; and the Dubai Trade Center Jebel Ali, which is expected to attract 25 million visitors; and The Bluewaters Island Project which will have the world's largest Ferris Wheel at 210 meters.  Most of these projects are expected to reach first phase completion in three years.

Dubai Adventure Studios expects to complete the main park by 2014 with a marine and aquatic themed park to follow as well as a night safari themed park.  Also a park catering to toddlers, preschool, and primary school children is planned.

Mohammad bin Rashid City, a sprawling mega-city with gardens covering 800 million square feet and costing $60 billion, will include 100 hotels, golf courses, a hub for the arts, and centers to develop small businesses.  The gardens are 30% larger than Hyde Park in London.  The city will also include the Mall of the World, which expects over 80 million visitors per year.  The mall is partly developed by Universal Studios.

Some of these plans are part of the revived mega-project Dubailand that was put on hold in 2008 after the financial crisis.  Many plans of the original project have been changed.  It is still not certain if the Universal Studios theme park will be construct with the mall as originally planned in 2008.

One of the most astounding projects announced was that of the new Dubai Eye, the world's tallest ferris wheel standing at 689 feet.  The ferris wheel is the center of the BlueWaters Project, a resort island project off the Jumeirah Beach coastline most famously known for the Burj Al Arab (the sailboat hotel).    Dubai Eye riders are expected to get a majestic view of the Dubai coastline.  The cost of this project is expected at $1.5 billion.  You can read more about Dubai Eye at the following links:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/asia/8322208/Dubai-wants-worlds-biggest-wheel

http://www.luxury-insider.com/luxury-news/2013/02/reinventing-the-ferris-wheel-dubai-eye-to-be-worlds-largest#.USXMJX2FpAk.email


I haven't even touched on some of the other projects like the Dubai Panorama, a 17 meter high pedestrian bridge over Dubai Creek linking one part of the city to another.  The continued expansion of the Dubai Metro at a whopping $675 million.

The Etihad Rail is expected to launch their inaugural run this year.  According to Etihad Rail's website,  1,200 km network will extend across the United Arab Emirates, from the border of Saudi Arabia to the border of Oman. The network will run from Ghweifat to Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the Northern Emirates with major connecting points in between, including Al Ain and Madinat Zayed. Etihad Rail will have an extensive national network with freight terminals, distribution centres and depots located close to major transport hubs, warehouses, and storage facilities across the UAE, including Mussafah, Khalifa Port, Jebal Ali Free Zone, Port of Fujairah of and Saqr Port.  The Etihad Rail network will also connect with the GCC network and this - once fully established - will cover the five GCC countries of The Kingdom of Bahrain, The State of Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and UAE. 


Dubai is soon to host the world's largest airport Al Mouktam International Airport, one of the many construction projects falling under Dubai World Central.   Here is an excerpt from Wikipedia giving details about the project:

Designed for the future, Al Maktoum International Airport proposes to handle all next-generation aircraft, including the Airbus A380 super-jumbo.^[15] Up to four aircraft will be able to land simultaneously, 24 hours a day, minimizing in-air queuing.

The airport will include:

• Five parallel runways, 4.5 kilometres (2.8 mi) in length, each separated by a distance of 800 metres (2,600 ft). Six runways were originally planned, but the number was reduced to five in April 2009
• Three passenger terminals, including two luxury facilities; one dedicated to airlines of The Emirates Group, the second to other carriers, and the third dedicated to low-cost carriers.
• Multiple concourses
• 16 cargo terminals with a 12-million tonne capacity
• Executive and royal jet centres
• Hotels and shopping malls
• Support and maintenance facilities: the region's only hub for A, B, and C Checks on all aircraft up to A380 specifications
• Over 100,000 parking spaces (probably underground) for airport staff and passengers
• Al Maktoum International Airport and the existing Dubai International Airport will be linked by a proposed high-speed express rail system
• Al Maktoum International Airport will also be served by the Dubai Metro and a dedicated Dubai World Central light railway                                                                                                                Here is a short not-so-great video of the airport model displayed at Cityscape 2008:

                                                  http://youtu.be/D4sh9cMJ8pg



All of these mega-projects come on the heels of the last five years of world economic crisis.  While the world has been reeling from the economic downturn, and Dubai was not exactly immune but weathered the storm, the UAE has been carefully planning for their future as a worldwide leader in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Nearby Abu Dhabi, where I reside, has its own list of landmarks.  Ferrari World, the fastest rollercoaster in the world; Yas Waterworld, the new largest waterpark in the world; the Formula One Raceway featuring the only hotel with a racetrack running through it; Emirates Palace, the world's only seven star hotel;  and The Grand Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world.

The rulers of the UAE fully intend to put their country on the map.  Actually, I think they have already succeeded!