THE UAE
“Our major aims focus on raising the
standard of living of our citizens and the development of our country. One’s
homeland is like a tree which constantly requires the care and attention of its
citizens. Every UAE citizen is committed to serve his nation and work toward
its prosperity and welfare.” This was one of the many inspirational messages
quoted by Sheikh Zayed.
To build up a great and developed nation from nothing but a barren desert is not an easy task. This was the task taken up by Sheikh Zayed
and Sheikh Rashid after they decided to unite both their emirates. After 5 more
emirates decided to join the union, with a single aim of building up a strong
and developed nation, it was evident that the UAE was going to become one of
the best nations in the world.
The discovery of oil was a major point in the history of the UAE, which
led to the start of fast paced development across all the emirates. High rise
buildings, long and wide roads, and excellent living conditions were all
established within a short period. But never did they know that the UAE was
going to become a global hub. As the job opportunities increased, migration
rates rocketed sky high and the UAE was filled with people of more than 200
nationalities, of which the major constituent is from India. This is the same
reason that we are here. As the population increased over the years, the need
for more development was persistent. Smart transport systems, like the Dubai
Metro, Dubai Tram and Water taxi were introduced.
Large industrial areas, like the Jebel Ali Free Zone Area was developed. Many
different colleges and universities were started. So, the UAE began to gain
international acceptance and importance.
The UAE
wants to be the first in all aspects possible. The tallest building Burj
Khalifa, the largest manmade island Palm Jumeirah and to be one of the few
countries selected to host the Expo 2020 are only some of the major feats
achieved by the UAE. But this doesn’t mean that the rich culture and heritage
is avoided. Many campaigns, festivals and events are promoted and conducted to
spread awareness of its culture and history to all the citizens, especially
focusing on the new generation of young people like us, who live in a world of
luxury. We need to be shown how this country was developed to what great
heights it has achieved today.
Last but not the least, the UAE is a mix of diverse cultures, ranging from America to South
Asia mixed in with the local Emiratis. Interacting with people from these many
different backgrounds enables us to increase our social and interaction skills.
When I came here, I was like an empty vessel, but the UAE filled me up with
knowledge, confidence and dignity.
I feel really proud to be staying in such a diverse, developed and
strong nation. Even though 44 years have passed since that great day on 2nd December 1971, the UAE is still
young. The story of this country is just beginning, and many pages have yet to
be filled. I can’t conclude without paying tribute to the soldiers who put heir
life at risk for the nation. I wish that this nation reaches even more greater
heights in the future.
