In my last article I mentioned that one of the reasons I did not live living in Dubai is the fact that some of the expatriates are disrespectful of the local customs and culture.
Well, just within the last week a flurry of controversy has arisen about what is acceptable to wear and what is absolutely not.
Two local ladies spearheaded an initiative on social networks to ‘Dress Right’ resulting in a battle of opinions and views that seized the nation’s attention.

As I perused the endless commentary online and in print I occasionally chuckled, and sometimes felt upset at the views presented.

Many tourists seem to think they are visiting Las Vegas which is another city where I have seen the display of outfits similar to the ones encountered at Dubai’s shopping malls supermarkets and streets.   more ...

1. Goodbyes: in a transient community such as Dubai change due to job situations or family obligations are unavoidable. Sometimes, they occur in an abrupt manner in the form of a termination of contract, sometimes because of homesickness and sometimes due to the allure of another tempting offer in another country. Possibly one with a better climate, lush vegetation and cool rivers. Friends are made quickly in this fast paced city but then lost seemingly just as fast. Sadness and often anger follow the heart wrenching departure of a friend. After every forcedly jovial farewell lunch or dinner, long after the pretty cards have been signed and the going away gift presented with a brave smile, a bitter taste of despair remains. Is this how it’s going to be? Families, children and singles are equally affected. This uncertainty hovers above each expat like a dreaded cloud, the sure to come ending at some point or other. Maybe even discouraging some, making them more careful about emotional attachments in such a fickle world.   more ...

For the last month or so sandstorms have been on Dubaians minds. Represented in the form of swirling, howling Shimal (north westerly winds) and widespread attacks of asthma and allergies this familiar climate manifestation is a part of life in the desert. My last post was on weather so for fear of sounding like an overzealous meteorologist I have opted to write about another topic close to my heart.

Multiculture. It’s my favorite aspect of living in Dubai. I heard someone call a blend of cultures and nationalities a “salad” rather than a “melting pot”. After living in the Gulf for fifteen years, North Africa for thirteen, Europe for seven and the USA for almost a decade I have started to like the salad comparison. A melting pot would imply that all the cultures and people have fused together to the point of a “fluid” diluted identity. The salad however, retains all the essences and uniqueness of its main ingredients…mixed and tossed in a massive flamboyant bowl of flavors. Possibly with a dash of passion and a sprinkle of longing for some added zest.   more ...

I can say that with a smile these days, reveling in the warmth of my newly purchased woolly socks, the feel of a cozy blanket and the endless cups of steaming ginger tea I indulge in throughout the day…all without turning into a sweaty mess.

Makeup actually stays firmly on, rather than sliding off my face as it does during the usual heat and humidity filled days throughout most of the year. Jackets and scarves, even boots are worn hastily. Large and small bonfires are stirred to life across the desert landscape while groups of huddled boys or men gather around for gossip and Arabic coffee. Numerous cups of hot chocolate with tiny marshmallows and cardamom spiced Karak Chai (milky, sweet tea beverage sampled widely across the Gulf countries) have been prepared for the children and guests in our home. We were the proud owners of an electric fireplace a few years ago but for reasons I cannot recall we got rid of it, only to regret it at this time of the year, every year. It would have come in very handy on *cold* Dubai mornings or evenings.   more ...