#3 Sand Dunes memories in Dubai

Living in Dubai has been an amazing journey, filled with the fondest memories and the best days of my life. While I was born in India, my early years were shaped in Dubai, where I had the privilege of experiencing a rich tapestry of cultures from a young age. Looking back, I can't help but smile at the adorable memories captured in a photo of me as a child with my dad on Dubai Beach – a snapshot of carefree days and innocence. From costume parties at the age of three, where I hilariously dressed as a spider, to navigating the vibrant cultural mosaic of Dubai, my childhood was a blend of studying, making friends, and attending lively birthday celebrations. Despite the youthful focus on academics, some of my most cherished recent vacations involved quality time spent with family and friends.

Dubai, with its expansive malls housing everything from Gucci to Ralph Lauren, offered a unique shopping experience. However, my discerning taste made the quest for the perfect pair of shoes a bit challenging. Eventually, I succumbed to a pair of designer shoes, carefully avoiding sharing the cost with my mother. The diverse discounts and variety, though, made the hours spent shopping pass swiftly. One unforgettable adventure during those holidays involved parasailing. The feeling of soaring into the air, surrounded by peace and quiet, with a breathtaking view of the clear waters, remains etched in my memory. Despite the occasional gusts of wind, the experience was exhilarating, leaving me yearning to relive it.

Reflecting on my stay in Dubai, I can't overlook the warmth and simplicity of the friendships formed during my childhood. The shoutout to my lovely friends in Dubai resonates with the carefree and active lifestyle we enjoyed, even in the sweltering heat. Moving to Bahrain, another jewel in the Gulf, presented a different yet equally enriching experience. Manama, the capital city, became our home, and the plush surroundings provided the backdrop for a vibrant life. While the weather was undeniably hot, the camaraderie among families and neighbors, predominantly Indians, made every evening enjoyable.

Bahrain, with its simple and caring people, left an indelible mark on me. The beauty of Arab girls, both in nature and appearance, fascinated me. Learning the Arabic language in school, surrounded by a diverse group of Arab, American, and Indian classmates, broadened my understanding of different cultures. Amid the vibrant life, the shadow of wars and conflicts in the Middle East cast a somber note. Bahrain, too, faced challenges, and the innocent lives caught in the crossfire saddened me deeply. These experiences reinforced the importance of appreciating life, embracing diversity, and spreading love and kindness across borders. As I reflect on Dubai's growth over the years, I'm eager to return with my family, relive my childhood moments, and create new vacation memories. The city that witnessed my formative years holds a special place in my heart, and I look forward to rediscovering it through the lens of nostalgia and the joy of shared experiences.