Dubai is a home away from home for thousands of expatriates who came to the emirate to make their dreams come true, and many fall in love with it at first sight. Business leaders, social media influencers and celebrities have all made it big here and made Dubai their home.
"Many people who have come to Dubai, don't want to go back to any other country and the same thing happened to me. The more I travel the world, the more I love Dubai. Wherever I go, I want to come back to Dubai. Thanks to UAE leaders for the opportunities that they have given us," says Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Group.
Launching My Dubai, My Home
Sajan was speaking at the launch of the "My Dubai, My Home" campaign by Danube Properties, in partnership with Khaleej Times, which recognises leading social media influencers, celebrities and YouTubers who have made Dubai their home.
Influencers and YouTubers from many fields attended, including Mo Vlogs, Jumana Khan, Nina Ubhi, Ahmed Mokbel, Sadiq Ahmed, Ritu and Rinky, Kelvin Cheung, Ahmad Haffar, Vlada and Virdah Khan. A study by UK-based firm Online Mortgage Advisor has ranked Dubai among the world's 25 most beautiful cities.
Why Sajan Fell in Love With Dubai
Sharing his personal experience, Sajan said he felt at home the moment he landed at Dubai International Airport 29 years ago.
"After Iraq invaded Kuwait, I moved to Dubai. When I landed 29 years ago and the security personnel checked my passport, he spoke to me in Hindi/Urdu and asked me 'kaisa hay' (how are you). I fell in love with Dubai because I felt at home. I am away from India but don't feel like I am away from my home country," says the Danube Group founder.
"From the day I landed till today, I am happy that I have made Dubai my home. I would never leave this country," he says.
He said the emirate offers stability, security and a business-friendly environment, making it easy for Asians and Europeans alike to settle. "Plus, there are no taxes here. And all these aspects make people feel comfortable."
No Place Like Dubai
The influencers and YouTubers also credited Dubai's safety, security and growth opportunities for making it their home:
- Jumana Khan: "Being in Dubai is just like in little India. The place, the food makes me feel like I am at home. I love Dubai Airport as well."
- Kelvin Cheung: "Dubai is one of the most blessed places that have been created. Leaders have made this country for people to thrive and live in peace, and harmony. It's one of the most dynamic cities."
- Sadiq Ahmed: "I love Dubai because I feel secure. This is a peaceful place to live we get good opportunities to grow."
- Riki and Ritu: "Since we came here, we are in love with Dubai. It feels like just we are back home in India. You can relate to your culture here. We get a very homely and warm feeling here."
- Virdah Khan: "Dubai is a place of opportunities and safety. I love taking my son around Dubai and it feels so safe here."
- Mo Vlog: "Dubai is my home and I love this city. The most beautiful thing is that the leadership has made this city a beautiful mix of cultures."
- Ahmed Haffar: "I came to Dubai from Lebanon with nothing but I achieved what I wanted. Dubai is my home now. Thank you, Dubai."
