Inclusive spirit
By Vinay Varma
Abu Dhabi has been my home since 1970. My family and I share a profound love for this city.
When I first arrived here, the Indian community was relatively small, and there were limitations on what we could bring with us, including holy books and deities. The tremendous progress that the UAE has made, especially in embracing diversity, is truly remarkable. The magnificent BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi is a testament to that inclusive spirit. It will undoubtedly contribute to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity in the UAE.
Varma is the owner and MD of Chhappan Bhog, an Indian restaurant that has branches across the UAE.
Playing fair
By N. Sikki Reddy
Whenever I play in the UAE, it feels like I am playing in India. There is so much support for Indians out there. I have played two major tournaments in the UAE: the Abu Dhabi Masters in October, and the Badminton Asia Championship in Dubai in February. Badminton is picking up in the UAE. I see a lot of young talent. There are not many senior players they can look up to, so they are keen to learn the game from us.
The UAE is a good place to be from a tourist’s perspective. I am glad that the ties between our countries are at their best. I hope it gets even better.
Reddy is a badminton player.
Flying the royalty
By Ramandeep Oberoi
When I came to the UAE more than 20 years ago, there were very few Indian pilots in the aviation industry. Most pilots were from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Things have changed now, with many Indian pilots and engineers joining companies here.
I came to Abu Dhabi as a helicopter pilot and instructor in the oil & gas industry. After five years as instructor, I was chosen to work with the UAE president’s family. Although I had flown many politicians in India as a VIP helicopter pilot, the privilege to fly the royal family of the UAE was very satisfying. The UAE and its leaders have a good level of trust in India and Indians.
Captain Ramandeep Oberoi is chief operating officer of Falcon Aviation.
Pioneer doctor
By Dr Zulekha Daud
I am privileged to be a pioneering health professional in the UAE, which has been my home since 1963. I am grateful to the rulers of the UAE and the Indian government, which conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman on me in 2019, for the support and recognition of my efforts in developing the health care sector.
We employ thousands of people with varied backgrounds at our hospitals, clinics and pharmacies. With business and cultural exchanges, the India-UAE relations are now stronger.
Daud is the first female Indian doctor in the UAE and founder of the Zulekha Group.
Women feel safe
By Kushboo Sundar
The India-UAE relationship has always been strong, and it will become even stronger under the BJP government.
The UAE offers something new to every visitor. I visit the UAE two or three times a year, and every time there is something new. Travel to Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Ras al-Khaimah, and you get the feeling of being secure. A woman feels so safe.
Laws are strict. Everyone in the UAE is friendly to Indians. You never feel that you are away from home. It makes you comfortable and safe.
Kushboo is an actor and politician.
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