In an increasingly globalized world, many Singaporeans have ventured abroad, carving out unique lives filled with adventure, success, and new experiences. Among these expats is Azah Rahman, who, despite geopolitical tensions, has chosen to raise her family in Dubai. Her story reflects the complexities of life away from home and the meaning of safety and stability in a foreign land.

The Dubai Journey Begins

When Azah and her husband, Fahmi Latiff, initially moved to Dubai in January 2013, it was meant to be a brief two-year stint. Fahmi secured a position with a French maritime company, while Azah worked in early childhood education in Singapore. Like many expatriates, they planned to return home after gaining overseas experience. However, time and life in Dubai reshaped their perspective. What began as a temporary adventure evolved into a long-term commitment to their new life in the UAE.

Contrary to the common misconceptions that Dubai is merely a desert filled with camels and inherent dangers, Azah’s experience reveals a polished, modern city akin to Singapore. From the efficient metro system to the overwhelming cleanliness, Dubai offers a lifestyle where the unexpected becomes the norm. Although the weather lacks the regular rainfall Singaporeans cherish, the sense of organized living feels remarkably familiar.

Embracing Diversity and Work-Life Balance

One of the most notable aspects of living in Dubai is its remarkable multiculturalism. Schools may boast students from 130 different nationalities, requiring a shift in expectations regarding work culture. Unlike Singapore’s fast-paced environment, where efficiency is paramount, Dubai encourages a more relaxed approach to work. Azah recalls moments when colleagues express disapproval of her late emails, emphasizing the importance of family time instead.

This cultural shift has fostered a healthier work-life balance for Azah and Fahmi. Their days no longer consist of exhausting hours; instead, they find themselves enjoying leisurely evenings at the beach and late-night dinner outings. Together, they launched a new business after Fahmi’s company closed its Dubai branch, focusing on ship repair and expanding into markets in Singapore and West Africa, thus solidifying their roots.

Raising a Family with Consciousness

Azah and Fahmi’s son, Omar, who recently turned ten, is growing up in a lavish environment markedly different from their own childhoods in Singapore. Dubai’s international schools often expose students to a life filled with material comforts that Azah worries might spoil her child. The couple actively strives to instill humility in Omar, showing him videos of individuals less fortunate and emphasizing the importance of appreciating what he has.

Although they encourage Omar to engage with his Singaporean roots through culture and community events, they also want him to experience everyday life back home. Each return visit to Singapore includes using public transport and connecting with family, reminding him that life is not always about luxury.

Redefining Safety and Stability

Life in Dubai has generally felt secure for Azah and her family. Strict regulations maintain order in the city, contributing to a perception of safety. However, recent events in the Middle East have prompted them to reevaluate their understanding of safety. As tensions rose and missiles were intercepted near their home, they experienced a unique blend of fear and solidarity among the expatriate community.

Despite the unsettling circumstances, the rapid response of the UAE’s defense systems has inspired confidence in the governing structures maintaining security. Azah emphasizes that Dubai has proven resilient in the face of crises, reaffirming her family’s decision to stay.

In conclusion, while Singapore holds a special place in their hearts, Dubai has become a place of growth, opportunity, and family bonds. Azah and Fahmi continue to build their lives in Dubai, nurturing their son while navigating the complexities and uncertainties of living overseas. They celebrate the beauty of their unusual journey and the sense of community they’ve built, finding stability and a renewed appreciation for life, even amid external challenges.