{"id":3109,"date":"2024-11-17T03:15:03","date_gmt":"2024-11-17T00:15:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/?p=3109"},"modified":"2025-01-18T13:00:04","modified_gmt":"2025-01-18T10:00:04","slug":"foreigners-feel-at-home-in-dubai","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/2024\/11\/17\/foreigners-feel-at-home-in-dubai\/","title":{"rendered":"“Foreigners Feel at Home in Dubai”"},"content":{"rendered":"

In Our New Column: Expats Redefining Dubai<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Our latest feature explores the lives of accomplished expats who have made Dubai their home for years, offering us a fresh perspective on the city\u2014one we may not have seen before. Ayed Tadros, Chief Legal Counsel at Aramex, hails from Jordan and has lived in the UAE for over a decade. This year, he was honored as a laureate at Xposure, the nation\u2019s premier photography biennale. With his eye for the most breathtaking spots, Ayed invites us to experience Dubai as he sees it.<\/p>\n

Interview by<\/strong>: Natalia Maiboroda
\nText by<\/strong>: Anastasia Garina
\nPhotography<\/strong>: Courtesy of the author<\/p>\n

\n

What do you love most about Dubai?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

If I had to choose one word, it would be vision<\/em>. What captivates me most about Dubai is its seamless fusion of cutting-edge innovation and rich cultural heritage. The city\u2019s ability to pair iconic modern architecture like the Burj Khalifa with traditional souks and historic neighborhoods creates an extraordinary balance of past and future. I\u2019m also inspired by Dubai\u2019s determination to establish itself as a global hub for business, technology, and tourism. Its magnetic pull, attracting people from every corner of the world, makes it truly cosmopolitan.<\/p>\n

\n

What do you enjoy about living in Dubai Marina? Do you have any favorite spots?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

I\u2019m drawn to its lively energy and the picturesque waterfront lined with yachts. Marina Walk is ideal for morning or evening strolls\u2014it\u2019s the perfect place to relax and connect with friends. I also value how close the Marina is to JBR and Bluewaters Island. During the cooler months, I often enjoy cycling and walking here.<\/p>\n

For dining, Pier 7<\/strong> is my go-to\u2014a unique seven-story tower with diverse restaurants offering everything from casual bites to gourmet cuisine. The convenience of having it just a short walk from my home is a bonus. I\u2019d also recommend The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill<\/strong>, an exceptional seafood restaurant that never disappoints.<\/p>\n

The Marina\u2019s blend of excellent amenities, restaurants, and opportunities for outdoor activities makes it a wonderful place to live and unwind.<\/p>\n

\n

Do Jordanians have a favorite spot in Dubai?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Jordanians are known for their love of family gatherings, good food, and shisha. We often gather at restaurants and cafes that offer authentic Jordanian and Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some favorites:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Al Safadi<\/strong>: While it\u2019s a Lebanese restaurant, Jordanians love it for its exceptional Middle Eastern cuisine and inviting atmosphere.<\/li>\n
  • Mezza House<\/strong>: Famous for Mansaf, a signature Jordanian dish featuring lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce, served with rice or bulgur.<\/li>\n
  • Three by Eva<\/strong>: A hidden gem on Dubai\u2019s culinary map, this family-owned restaurant offers authentic Arab dishes prepared with love. Owned by a mother and her two daughters, it combines a warm ambiance with delicious, home-style cooking.<\/li>\n
  • Bait Maryam<\/strong>: Another family-run favorite, serving traditional Palestinian and Middle Eastern dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    \"\"<\/p>\n

    What Are Your Favorite Spots in Dubai for Professional Gatherings?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    Lawyers often enjoy informal meetings over lunch, dinner, or cocktails at trendy venues and upscale hotels. Many opt for BOCA<\/strong> and ZUMA<\/strong>, located in DIFC, as they provide a chic atmosphere perfect for networking. Another popular choice is the Ritz-Carlton Hotel<\/strong> in DIFC, known for its elegant setting. It’s a frequent host for legal events, conferences, and private gatherings.<\/p>\n

    \n

    Which Galleries, Museums, or Creative Spaces Inspire You?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    I enjoy spending time in Alserkal Avenue<\/strong>, a vibrant hub of galleries and design studios showcasing works by both local and international artists. It’s a fantastic place to explore creative expressions and gain fresh perspectives.<\/p>\n

    Whenever I can, I visit the Dubai Opera<\/strong>, where I draw inspiration not only from ballets and experimental performances but also from the stunning modern architecture of the building, set at the foot of the Burj Khalifa.<\/p>\n

    As a photography enthusiast, I make it a point to attend the annual Xposure International Photography Festival<\/strong> in Sharjah. In my opinion, it\u2019s an underrated event considering its scale and prestige. It\u2019s one of the largest photography exhibitions in the world, attracting renowned photographers like Steve McCurry. I still find it hard to believe that I had the privilege of participating with my own solo exhibition there.<\/p>\n

    \"\"<\/p>\n

    What Are Your Favorite Restaurants?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    Just a stone\u2019s throw from my home lies a hidden gem\u2014Massimo’s<\/strong>, an Italian restaurant with outstanding cuisine. I believe it\u2019s one of Dubai\u2019s most underrated dining spots. For authentic Italian pizza, I\u2019d also recommend Bussola<\/strong> at Westin Marina.<\/p>\n

    For breakfast, my top choice is Mama\u2019esh<\/strong>, where the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air. They serve delicious Palestinian dishes, making it a perfect way to start the day. Another excellent breakfast spot is Cassette<\/strong>, located near Alserkal Avenue. During the cooler months, I enjoy visiting Boardwalk<\/strong> at Dubai Creek, which offers panoramic views and a luxurious menu\u2014ideal for early breakfasts or sunset dinners.<\/p>\n

    When I want to relax and catch up with friends, I head to Roka<\/strong>, known for its cozy ambiance. It\u2019s the perfect place to enjoy succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and fine wine, all paired with a scenic view of the city. I also love dining at Carine<\/strong> in Emirates Golf Club and exploring the restaurants at Jumeirah Al-Naseem<\/strong>, particularly Il Borro<\/strong>, for an unforgettable culinary experience.<\/p>\n

    \n

    As an Expat, What Do You Value Most About Dubai?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    Adaptability. Dubai is a city that goes above and beyond to make life easier and more enjoyable for expatriates. The level of convenience and comfort here is unparalleled compared to other cities. The city\u2019s infrastructure is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of residents from all over the world. From world-class healthcare facilities to international schools, Dubai ensures that everyone\u2014from singles to families\u2014can settle in with ease.<\/p>\n

    Moreover, Dubai is tailored to suit any lifestyle, offering an incredible variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. It\u2019s this diversity that allows expatriates to feel truly at home.<\/p>\n

    \n

    Can You Recommend Some Hidden Gems in and Around Dubai?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    Just 30 minutes from the city center, you\u2019ll find Al Qudra Lake<\/strong>, an artificial oasis in the middle of the desert. It offers peace and solitude far from the city\u2019s hustle and bustle. It\u2019s one of the few places in Dubai where you can see wildlife in its natural habitat, including oryx and over 170 species of birds.<\/p>\n

    The Al Seef<\/strong> district beautifully blends the old and new sides of Dubai. Its architecture reflects traditional Emirati design infused with modern trends. You can spend time at charming cafes while watching traditional abras glide across the creek, or stroll through its narrow alleys and lively market streets.<\/p>\n

    In the heart of Deira, you\u2019ll find Souq Naif<\/strong>, one of Dubai\u2019s oldest traditional markets, which originally traded in camels. Today, it\u2019s a bustling marketplace offering everything from perfumes to electronics and traditional Arabian garments.<\/p>\n

    One of my favorite lesser-known spots is Al Madam<\/strong>, a haunting yet fascinating ghost town located in the emirate of Sharjah, about 60 kilometers from Dubai. This abandoned village is being slowly reclaimed by the desert, showcasing nature\u2019s power to rewrite human-made landscapes. It\u2019s a photographer\u2019s dream and an adventurer\u2019s paradise.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    In Our New Column: Expats Redefining Dubai Our latest feature explores the lives of accomplished expats who have made Dubai their home for years, offering us a fresh perspective on the city\u2014one we may not have seen before. Ayed Tadros, Chief Legal Counsel at Aramex, hails from Jordan and has lived in the UAE for…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2155,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[115],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3109","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dubai-faces"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3109","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3109"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3109\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3112,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3109\/revisions\/3112"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2155"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3109"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3109"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gatedxb.ae\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3109"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}