I call the UAE my home, and thank you Dubai

Before a live audience singing the UAE national anthem in high school, I stood at ‘attention’ to show deference for the country. Our PE instructor had trained us to stand at attention, come what may — even if a bee buzzes around our heads. That was Our Own Indian School, Dubai. Pretty austere. Miss those naughty good-old school days.

Thank you, UAE for allowing me to live here all my life. I remember the time I would accompany my dad to his office at the World Trade Center when I was a kid. Looking out from the 19th floor, all I could see was barren land. The WTC was the only building on Sheikh Zayed Road. But look at it now, filled with state-of-the art buildings.

The country is now getting ready for yet another big day. I would like to take this opportunity to thank every individual for their hard work in making this city boom. With key economic development projects, the country is laying greater prominence on empowerment of its people. And I being a secular Indian raised in Dubai, I consider Dubai my home. A big thank you, once again for the well-organised Metro and feeder bus system, excellent infrastructure, restaurants 24/7, spacious shopping malls, parks, open beaches, 24-hour clinics and hospitals … the list is never ending.

Most importantly I would like to convey my heartiest wishes to our visionary leader, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for his passion, spirit of innovation, positive vibes and the freedom he has given to each us.