Dubai - Khaleej Times speaks to prominent families to understand what being Emirati means to them.
Published: Sun 27 Nov 2016, 8:03 PM
Renowned writer Khalid Al Ameri is in awe of the visionary leaders of the UAE and said citizens must work hard and not take the country's achievements for granted.
With the 45th National Day approaching, it's important for the citizens to share its message with those who may not be aware about what the country is celebrating on December 2.
Ameri's celebrations start at home with his entrepreneur wife Salama Mohamed and two children - Khalifa and Abdullah. "It's not just about giving them the national flag, but understanding why they should be proud of their country. The stories of Martyr's Day and the National Day are something we need to share with the next generation," Ameri said.
Ameri said it's the 'nothing is impossible' attitude that embodies the true Emirati identity.
"Whether it's having the highest building or diversifying our economy, we don't accept a 'no' and think nothing is impossible. If we can think and work hard towards a goal, we will achieve it eventually. That defines a true Emirati."
Ameri is proud of how much the nation had achieved in short period, and the unique relationship between the citizens and the leaders. He praised the environment of tolerance. "We have more than 200 nationalities, who work here in peace and harmony in tolerance, happiness and progress, making our lives better."
Sacrifices and visionaries
Ameri said the Flag Day, Martyr's Day and National Day all have one theme - as a people we never forget. "We are proud of the soldiers fighting for our way of life and those who are dedicating their lives for the stability and security of generations to come.
"We should never take what we have for granted. To carry this forward, we need to work that hard and be dedicated. And that's what all these days are for."
Ameri also lauded the contributions of the UAE's founder, the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and and Shaikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. "Their work ethics and constant drive for excellence inspires me. You can't help but be in awe."
The writer also elaborated on the UAE's image in the rest of the world. "When people come to this country, they see the glitz and glamour but they don't see what it took to get there. Someone looked at a plain desert and saw what no one else could. I would love to have seen what Shaikh Zayed envisioned back then. One man brought all the different tribes together and a country rose from the desert to create what we have today. If it weren't for that and the current generation of leaders, only God knows where we would be today. Our leaders are constantly redefining our future."
- ashwani@khaleejtimes.com
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