Growing up in Dubai
It’s normal to look back on our youth with nostalgia as we get older. Our memories of our childhood are frequently tinted by the positive events that formed us into the individuals we are today. My youth was a period of boundless wonder and discovery for me, filled with unique memories that I remember to this day.
I was born and raised in a small town in Deira, Dubai, and the area called Al Nakheel, surrounded by Arabic villas and there were fewer buildings. My childhood home was a modest but comfortable place, with a small “Sahan” (courtyard) where my siblings and I would spend countless hours playing. Some of my earliest memories are of chasing after my elder brothers riding bicycles, climbing trees, and watching Tom & Jerry and Grendizer with my cousins. The sense of freedom and possibilities it brought was one of my favorite elements of my adolescence.
My parents always supported me to follow my passions and try new things. I also loved reading and spent many afternoons with my nose buried in a book. Another highlight of my childhood was spending time with my extended family. We would often gather together for family dinners or go on trips to the nearby beach. I have vivid memories of playing card games and going on adventurous explorations of new places with my cousins. Of course, like any childhood, mine was not without its challenges. I struggled with languages as the morning shift was English School and the afternoon was Arabic and sometimes found it difficult to communicate.
Even during those trying times, my family was always there to encourage me and push me toward being myself. Reminiscing about the past, I realize how much it molded the person I am now. I developed a love of nature and a drive for learning as a result of it, and I now speak Arabic, English, Hindi/Urdu, and of course, my native Bangla fluently. I’m deeply grateful to have been blessed with such a family and community.
Even though I know I’ll never be able to return to those carefree years, I’ll always deeply treasure my childhood experiences and memories.
Dubai never looks the same twice
Dubai is a city that is constantly changing and developing. From towering skyscrapers to luxurious resorts, this vibrant metropolis is constantly pushing the boundaries of architecture, design, and innovation. The fact that Dubai constantly changes its appearance is one of its most spectacular features. There’s something new and exciting to discover with every visit.
Oil was discovered in the 1960s, which led to Dubai’s quick expansion and development. Since then, the city has seen a significant transformation and has emerged as a major hub for trade, tourism, and culture. Today’s Dubai skyline is dominated by iconic structures such as Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Burj Al Arab, one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, Museum of the Future, a new landmark and toroidal structure clad in stainless steel surrounding 30,000m² of exhibition space for emirate innovation across multiple industries. It is meant to be both a symbol and a ship for the future of the United Arab Emirates. The iconic Atlantis The Palm has a sister hotel called the Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences. Looks like giant Lego blocks (I call it a Jenga Building) that make up the structure. Atlantis The Royal is located on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the famous palm tree-shaped artificial island. The resort also has 90 pools, including a rooftop infinity pool on the 22nd floor, suspended 90 meters above the ground.
But it’s not just the big attractions that make Dubai an attractive destination. The city is constantly innovating in all aspects of daily life, from transportation to entertainment. For example, Dubai Metro, which opened on 09-09-09, is one of the most advanced and modern public transport systems in the world and. Wait for it!!! Dubai Flying Taxi that you can hitchhike in 2026. Air taxis offer passengers a smooth and continuous journey, free of emissions and with maximum safety. Each aircraft has a range of 241 km, a peak speed of 300 km/h, a pilot, and four passengers. And Dubai Mall, one of the biggest malls in the world, provides a distinctive mix of high-end shopping, entertainment, and leisure activities.
But Dubai’s ability to meld tradition and modernity may be its most alluring feature. Although the city is well known for its glitz and glamour, it also has a vibrant history and culture with strong roots in the Arab region. Traditional souks (markets) are the perfect mix of traditional tastes, smells, and colors. Entering the souks is like going back in time. Located in Deira, Dubai’s old city across the Dubai Creek, the spice and Perfume souks immerse themselves in the warmth of spices, amber, and incense, along the exotic antique alleyways, jewelry of the Gold Souk an Aladdin`s Cave of treasures in Deira, are all within walking distance. The stunning Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai offers an authentic, accessible, and rich cultural experience.
Dubai’s innovative future
Another reason Dubai will never be the same is its focus on sustainability and innovation. To minimize its carbon footprint and encourage renewable energy, the city has undertaken a variety of ambitious programs. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), for example, built one of the world’s largest solar power facilities, the Muhammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, as part of its extensive efforts to promote solar energy.
Dubai is a city that never ceases to amaze me. It’s no surprise that millions of tourists visit Dubai each year, with its gorgeous architecture, smart infrastructure, rich culture, and commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re a seasoned tourist or a first-time visitor, Dubai offers a unique experience.
