OUR DUBAI SOJOURN: A WISH FULFILLED

         I retired from Army  on 01 December, 1985, being below even of a JCO rank, at the age of 40,  I remained jobless for quite sometime.  It was extremely difficult for me to cope-up with day-to-day expenditure, being an unemployed person like me.  with a meagre monthly pension of Rs. 410. Two primary school going children Vandana and  Vivek, were still to be brought up and educated which was a major problem before us. It was all helplessness all around! As luck would have it, I got the service in the National Fertilizers Ltd., Panipat with the support of my army mate Kuldip Sehrawat.  We shifted from Jalandhar to Panipat  in the year 1986 and had a small house constructed there, in a pollution free village environs.  Vandana did her 12th in the K.V. Panipat, BSc(Med) in S.D. College and then MBA from a Management Institute at Sonepat, affiliated to NMIM, Mumbai.

        Vandana, however, did not want to stay back at home, doing nothing, after her MBA but always insisted to work, let it be on lower pay packages, in order to gain experience and to be familiarized with the set up of complex corporate world. She did various small time jobs in Delhi, and lived there for one year and a half, all alone, while both of us back at home, remained caught up with  unknown fears.  Vandana, however, fought boldly and worked sincerely hard, and finally managed to reach at a platform, from where she was free to pick up any route towards future success, with great zeal, accurate  approach, hard work and  of course with strong stamina, to face sharp competition ahead. Before reaching at the platform in a leading telecom company, she was earning monthly salary of Rs. 5,000/- or less during her struggling days. However, she was not dependable on us except for few occasions when we supported her financially too.

        One day, when we both were in the kitchen preparing dinner for that night, Rama, looked little tense and worried. I already knew the reason, tried to console and encourage her by saying that "look, one day would definitely come, when Vandana would get salary of Rs. 15,000/- per month and that day is not very far". Hearing this, she tauntingly spoke without having seen into my eyes that " O Din Dubba, Yadon Ghori Charia Kubba". Perhaps the 'saying' is self explanatory but I did not take it serious and again tried to impress upon  her and said " NO, avoid negative attitude and be optimistic".  I once again tried to assure her that Vandana would definitely reach up to the pay scale of Rs. 15,000/- very soon and then we shall think about her marriage! As was evident from our social and financial status then, we could not have had even thought of a brighter and greater career for our daughter.

       She is  married and  lives in Dubai. That is why, we both are here for a month. Vishal Mehra, her husband, is a high profile tourism professional flying the world over. Vandana currently holds an important post of upper middle order in an American Multinational Company.  All credit goes to Vishal, who is behind her successes. They have a lovely daughter Saisha studying in a leading internationally reputed school. Both being based in Dubai, our coming to this modern and thriving metropolis, for a month's stay, is not at all surprising!

      The morning of 9th of December 2016 was full of mental tension  and worry for both of us at our son's residence at Noida, as it was a heavily foggy and cold morning.  The visibility was so low that it was not possible to look beyond ten meters.  On the top of this, it had to be decided that we would have to go to the IGI by taxi all alone! At exactly quarter to nine, the taxi was called and we left for the airport, Somehow, we reached at the airport at around 11 or so. We both jointly managed to clear ourselves at the various counters at IGI, after having funny run around from pillar to post, and later touched down at Dubai International Airport, at quarter to six.

        Formalities like immigration, security clearance and collection of unaccompanied luggage, were completed with the help of Marhawa assisting us. Vishal, Vandana and Saisha picked us up at the exit, in their lovely new Audi, Q7 and we all drove down, on a beautiful road network and soon reached at the Business Bay residence. Burj Khalifa standing tall at a stone's throw distance, giving magnificent look through our bedroom window. A dream coming true........a wish fulfilled!!

DUBAI, AT A GLANCE


      Friends, if I may share with you about what I have seen about the city of Dubai during my one month's stay there.  Whatever I have been able to see around during my stay there, I shall try to tell you all about that you may like to know if you are planning to make a holiday trip to Dubai.

      As a country, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is still young having only formed in 1971. Dubai may have everything to offer, but there are six other emirates in the UAE and five other countries in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC), all of which warrant brief mention. All six other emirates - Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaim, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Fujairah - are within two hours drive from Dubai.  The neighboring GCC countries of Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait are all less than 90 minutes  flight away. Unifying the different emirates was seen as a progressive step to enhance security and influence in the area.  However, the region has a long history before that.. The UAE is considered the second richest Arab country after Qatar, and globally, being the eighth richest country in the world.

       His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, has guided the country, and specially Abu Dhabi, through a period of astonishing growth.  Sheikh Khalifa has always been generous with Abu Dhabi's oil wealth, ensuring other emirates within the county.  The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world's tallest building, is named after Sheikh Khalifa. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Prime Minister and the Vice President of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Dubai.  He has overseen numerous landmark projects in Dubai including  Palm Jumeirah, the 'Seven Star' Burj Al Arab Hotel and the Burj Khalifa

      The economic growth of Dubai is very fast since last 25 years. The international business is flourishing here.  The UAE is well ahead of many other countries in the Middle East in terms of travel and tourism. Dubai is perhaps the most famous tourist destination in the UAE with over 580 hotels and attractions such as the man-made Palm Jumeirah Island, The Burj Al Arab Hotel with helipad on its top and an ever growing marina area.  In Downtown area Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building towers over world's largest dancing fountain and nearby is the world's largest The Dubai Mall and newly inaugurated Dubai Water Canal flowing through the residential and busy commercial areas.

      'Marsa Dubai, is another busy area which is known for modern and one of the highest standards of living. The Walkways and the man-made waterways to the unique imagination of Dubai's modern architecture. The sparkling glass building of the National Bank of Dubai, fondly known as 'pregnant lady', is a sculptural vision standing tall like a magnificent convex mirror that reflects the bustling activity at the creek.  streets and pathways, attractively landscaped lakes, gardens and recreation areas make it perfect for those who want to enjoy the peace and quiet. Living standard is one of the highest in the world.

      Arabic is the official language of the UAE. However, English is widely used in all areas of life including in business that you might live here for years without needing to learn   Arabic. Most road, street and shop signs and restaurants menu display both English and Arabic.  That is not to say that learning a few words or phrases of Arabic is not a good idea Though, Arabic is not the easiest language to learn, but if you are able to speak out a few words to the locals, you are most likely to receive a warmer welcome or at least a smile even if your pronunciation is terrible. 

      You will be surprised to know that if you are stuck up somewhere due to language problem, you need not to worry as you are likely to find Hindi speaking people all around, everywhere! There are even local Emiratis, who are fond of Bollywood movies and understand Hindi and enjoy Indian music most! So be careful on commenting on locals while walking around in a supermarkets, malls, community common places or strolling on the The Walkways.

      Islam is the principal religion but the UAE is tolerant of other cultures and religions, the ruling family has in the past donated land for the building of churches and Hindu temples in the UAE.

      Dubai is rich and showy, it likes to have the biggest and the best of every thing in the world.  They want everything biggest, tallest and the fastest of all. There is hardly a week goes by when something the UAE does not claim to be the world's biggest, tallest, fastest or most expensive and yet there are plans to go more bigger, taller, fastest or even costliest of all! 

      May be in the coming few years, one would see a structure called Dubai Creek Tower, taller than Burj Khalifa. Dubai Harbor Lighthouse coming up 135 meters tall with grand hotels, Mall, and residential apartments with 360 degree revolving lighthouse on the top and unique looking glassy structure standing on man-made island in the sea, would be another attraction during and after Expo 2020!

      The culinary delights available in Dubai are  anything from Mexicans, Asian and  English roast dinner.  Most of the popular restaurants are in hotels where alcoholic drinks are also served.  Some of the fastest foods can be found in the road side cafeterias where two people can often feast on less than Dhs 50.  Pork is also available but with some restrictions. 

      Smoking the traditional Shisha (Hooka) is a popular pastime throughout the Middle East. After culmination of our Desert Safari on 20 Dec 2016, the last point of rendezvous was one of the Desert Camps, where our dinner was already booked. After having settled in the camp, I along with Vishal, my son-in-law, tried our hand with Shisha, in the Shisha Parlor in the Camp. It is similar to our Indian Hooka except that it gave aromatic  smoke.  However, we being non-smokers, could not enjoy smoking Shisha.

      The legal system in the UAE is a mix of Shariah and conventional laws implemented by the federal judiciary.  Dubai Police is helpful if you are on the right side of law. The police have a visible presence in the city but not prominent as in  other large cities.  You are most likely to be stopped for a traffic offence.  You must always carry your  driving license and vehicle registration - failure to do so could result in a heavy fine.  If you are stopped by the police, it is important to appear helpful and co-operative at all times. Being impolite may land you in a trouble.


      Dubai's road and flyover system is the extensive, expanding and intimidating network of roads but once you find your way out, things become easier.  When you start driving, it is pretty much given that you will need to schedule an extra 20 minutes for getting lost. Dubai is famed for its U turns, to enable you to link to the road that takes you to your destination. Mind it, it is left hand drive and 'Keep Right'.

      Sign posting in Dubai is generally good once you understand the system.  The infrastructure is superb.  Dubai's bus system is good. Fleet of water buses offers commuters and travelers a complete network of routes along Dubai's waterways. The Dubai Canal which was inaugurated in November 2016, is linked with Deira Creek and the Arabian Gulf. It flows majestically through the city. It looks like as if a dark green necklace is worn by the city of Dubai.

       There are number of foot bridges for the pedestrians at the prominent places. Colorful waterfalls and musical fountains, at places, are a romantic scene for the tourists, residents and walkways strollers alike. Yachts, motor boats and old time Arabian Nights charm heavy duty wooden Dhow cruise could be seen ferrying and giving joy rides to visitors in bulk. All these arrangements are controlled by the Dubai marine transport department.

So far health is concerned, both public and private healthcare services are available in Dubai. General standards are very high with English speaking staff and internationally trained medical staff in most facilities.  Healthcare in Dubai is managed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Health insurance is must in Dubai and the UAE.

      Dubai is a home to various international and government nurseries, schools and universities offering top quality education.

      Downtown Dubai is the rendezvous for all kinds  of shops, restaurants,  malls and architectural marvels. Hordes of tourists and residents throng the place everyday.  At the heart of downtown is the Dubai's tallest tower, Burj Khalifa which points like a needle more than 800 meters skywards.  By its base are the world's biggest mall, The Dubai Mall, while the centerpiece is the spectacular 'Dubai Fountain' drawing crowds to witness the regular evening shows where jets of water shot 150 meters upwards into the air, parallel to Burj Khalifa, dancing on the tunes of Arabic Music.

      The Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, is full of top end retail brands, an array of excellent eateries and some fantastic entertainment options such as Dubai Aquarium and underwater zoo, Dubai Ice Rink and 22 screen cinema.

      Big Bus Tours - A fleet of double decker buses that provide service with audio commentary, to major attractions across town. Tickets are valid for either 24 or 48 hours.  Night tours with  commentary attract visitors to enjoy illuminated Dubai.

      If you are willing to enjoy waterways, you can always charter a Dhow, in a large group, from the fishermen and travel to east coast. If you know a bit of Arabic, you can still haggle with the fishermen in order to set the lowest price. Waters in the area are clear and turtles and dolphins can be seen from the boat.

      Hotels in Dubai range from one of the best in the world.  The Burj Al Arab Hotel, tallest in the world, emerging out from the Arabian Gulf on the man-made island, with rate in the region of Dhs. 11,000 for a night in a standard suite. The world famous Hotel Atlantis, in the Palm Jumeirah, one of the world's largest man-made island, is the shaan of Dubai. Then there is the Meydan Hotel which hosts the richest horse race in the world  The Dubai World Cup and Armani Hotel at the base of  the tallest man-made structure in the world Burj Khalifa and The Taj and The Oberois being the leading Indian ambassadors.

      If you are planning a trip to Dubai for shopping, look out for small shopping centers first and then head for Bur Dubai where you would find an atmosphere like back home Chandni Chowk and  whatever you want to purchase. Trying haggling for price cut, though not welcome in Dubai, but place like Bur Dubai where you can bargain and have the cost reduced to some extent. There is generally a mall or shopping center within easy distance from anywhere you end up. 

       When you are exhausted at Bur Dubai, try visiting The Dubai Mall, The Mall of Emirates, Dubai Outlet Mall. Dubai Marina Mall at the Marsa Dubai or  Mercato Shopping Mall at the northern end of Jumeirah Road. Then head to West Square or City Walk both in Jumeirah.  The second biggest shopping hub.  The huge Lulu Hypermarket just off Union Suqeim Road is worth the visit and there is a cluster of handy shops with easy approach.

       Hypermarkets, we generally call them Supermarkets,  are a one stop shop for almost anything you can think of, . With a range that goes far beyond food, most sell a variety of electronics and home appliances at competitive prices as well as toys, home wares, luggage, clothes, shoes, music and much much more. You name it, they have it.

       If you are over the age of 21 years, you can buy alcohol in Dubai's restaurants and licensed bars for consumption on the premises.  If you wish to drink at home, you will need a liquor license.  Muslims are not allowed. Drinks can be expensive in Dubai.  If you have a few drinks with dinner, then do not drive. You will be breaking the law if you drive after even one drink. You may land up in a trouble.

      The local scents are a big business in Dubai. These scents are generally strong and spicy.   US based store present in Mall of the Emirates, ibn Battuta Mall and The Dubai Mall.  All kinds of lovely bath and beauty products are available here.

      The 'Signature' Sanjeev Kapoor's latest Dubai Restaurant with traditional Indian dishes given an innovative makeover. Samosas and Bhajis take a back seat to such a modern delights of tandoori lobster, basil pepper, honey mustered chicken or paneer tikka.

      May be it is not the end of story of the City of Dubai and much much more  can still be written in the form of an encyclopedia  about this wonderful city and the UAE,  like an unending story of Arabian Nights, if I may, now say goodbye, all happy and feeling satisfied with my Dubai visit, a long cherished wish has been fulfilled!!






       

                                   MASTI AT THE JUMEIRAH BEACH, DUBAI

       The other day, we all were at the Jumeirah Beach.  It was an opportunity, a rare one indeed, to be on a beach, having fun and frolic.  We had taken sufficient food stuff, drinks and chocolate milk along and enjoyed our day out, to the fullest.  On the sands, we laid  out the mat spreads, and the stuff brought was also arranged on it, though against the mild sea winds.

      All of us, first of all, walked towards the sea and plunged into the waters. We were all bare feet, putting on cargo shorts. As we got into the water, All of us experienced the shiver of cool water and the hit of sea winds. Rama seemed overwhelmed seeing the mighty ocean before her, that she had earlier seen either only on the screen or as photographs. She enjoyed the feel of touching of sea water, its splash and standing into the sea herself, and was very happy and thankful to Vandana, her daughter, who enabled her to see the sea!

      It was virtually a rare experience for me too, to walk into the sea against the mighty waives coming continuously one after the other, and while retreating back into the sea, took along with them, the sand from under the feet creating a mild sensation in the whole body. If you continuously stare at the coming waves, at a stretch, without blinking your eyes, you must feel giddy and may have a fall into the water. Many times I tried to go deeper with all my dare, and of course, also with hidden fear, but then you are nobody to challenge the mighty ocean!

      Our little Saisha was more than happy. She was all shouting, laughing and calling everyone to join her while she tried to negotiate the small waives, at their fag end, and then came running back to safety. She tried her hand in making sand castles using all her skills, with small hands.  I also joined her help made big sand castle with all my efforts in half an hour, little beyond from the reach of the waives. But Saisha was not lucky enough to save her castle for long, when suddenly a big, mighty and furious waive came and washed it away before our eyes! Sorry Saisha!!

      Low flying helicopters over the beach attracted everyone's attention on the beach, to look skyward, the visitors enjoying the aerial view of the sea, sand dunes, beaches, man-made islands and the crescents. The Dubai city from the air is an impressive and truly unique sight. Flying along the coast by helicopter, the experience of which, will live long in the memory.

      After feeling tired a little, we had our lunch, some sitting and some standing in the sands, changed clothes, packed, cleaned up the site, putting the waste into the bin, walked away from the beach and then further drove away to another beautiful beach, The Walk Marina Beach. Here we enjoyed sightseeing, walking around beautifully maintained and manicured green lawns, with nicely arranged and pruned hedges, amusement and children play parks, upcoming merry-go-round on the sea shore. 

      Hustle and bustle in the area surrounded by many reputed wayside restaurants and eateries, over looking shiny tall residential sky scrapers. A vast sea skyline in front of us gave an unlimited and amazing nazara of The Walk Marina and the World's only tallest Seven Star Hotel Burj Al Arab, constructed in the sea on the man-made island, showing up at the skyline!!

    In the evening, driving back home, all through from The Walk, to the Business Bay residence, was yet another thrill!!

                       VISIT TO SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE, ABU DHABI

      At 12 noon, we headed for Abu Dhabi and reached at the well known Swedish Furniture and Home Accessories retail chain IKEA, the biggest in the UAE, located in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Though we had no plans for shopping, still we spent quite a good time in the mall, had a cup of coffee and purchased few items, though some of them, not necessarily required. IKEA commenced its operations in Dubai in 1991 and opened in Abu Dhabi in March 2001.

      At 14.15, we reached at the stunning Abu Dhabi landmark, a truly remarkable architectural marvel, reminiscent of a sultan's palace from the Arabian Nights The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque . Unlike most mosques in the UAE, it is open to non-Muslims. It has a capacity for astonishing 40,000 worshipers. The world's only one piece largest hand-woven,, beautiful masterpiece of Persian Carpet which is spread out wall-to wall, in the main hall of the mosque, is worth appreciating.

      At the entrance, there are two entry gates for the visitors, separately for men and women. Women are not allowed entry without burqa which is issued to them at the entry gate. The structure of the mosque is so huge and fascinating and spread out in a vast area. It is not so easy for visitors to walk around the whole area without being feeling fatigued. 

      The look of the Persian Carpet, and the massive and rarely big and beautiful inner domes, with intricate carvings on them with colorful paintings on walls makes the onlookers feel like wandering in a dream world. The number of big and small colorful and designer Belgian Chandeliers, compel each and every visitor to look above in amazement! While entering into carpet area, the visitors are only allowed bare-feet.

     To be there first time, is a feeling of self satisfaction, and feast to one's eyes! Masha Allah!

     It was late evening and getting dark when we returned to Dubai, throwing a look from a distance, on the Abu Dhabi Ruler's Palace and Emirates Palace Hotel, having a longer circular drive through the beautifully illuminated roads, sign postings and  computerized hoardings, big and small, on the roads and buildings, on either side of the busy motorway, was a rare view for us, all through, till we reached home.