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My family and I have been living in Dubai for eight years now, and I read Latika's letter with interest - it raised good points.
But it will be very difficult to imagine these things ie helpfulness, pride in the city etc. in action here. This is because Dubai, by its very nature, is a transactional city. Every relationship or interaction is viewed in terms of what benefit it will offer to both parties. No benefit equals none or minimal interaction. Dubai is often called a "W i i FM" city - "What's In It For Me"!
However much we may talk about being nice etc, this is a reality. Half of the people here are struggling with day to day life - rents, school fees, traffic, no public transport etc., and that too in the absence of any extended family or support systems, which they would have in their home countries. They neither have the energy nor inclination to be nice.
The other half, who have it a little better, feel superior and use their time to interact with people who can help them advance in their careers or make more money. To give an example, one of my friends doesn't drive and as her kids go to the same school as her neighbour's kids, who did drive, she asked for a lift to a couple of school events when her husband was travelling and the lady obliged . From the 'being nice' perspective - makes sense doesn't it? Well, one day when my friend called up to have a chat with her neighbour on something unrelated, she could sense the reluctance on the other's part to even carry on a conversation. My friend then realised that the other lady was apprehensive that another favour would be asked for - so nobody does anything here unless they get something in return! So there you have it!
Thanks and regards,
Disillusioned
Dubai
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