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A world away

Selena Mell sends home her first impressions of a new life in the United Arab Emirates
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Hanna Johannesen makes a new friend in United Arab Emirates.

Former Quesnel principal Selena Mell has relocated to the United Arab Emirates with her daughter Hanna and writes about her impressions.

Rain is a rare occurrence in the Middle East, so I had anticipated the heat when arriving in the United Arab Emirates.  However, it was not until the point when disembarking from the plane, as the warm air and humidity from this hot arid climate suddenly greets you that the reality of where you have traveled finally sets in.

I arrived in late evening, after a lengthy journey which had begun from Quesnel, with other expatriates (expats) from around the globe:  Ireland, Scotland, New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom, United States and Canada. A thousand teachers and administrators of different ages, and with varied degrees of experience and expertise, all embarking on a life journey and educational teaching opportunity of a lifetime.  Teachers seeking to make a difference for children, to share and learn about a different culture, language, faith and country, and to promote the progressive vision for educational reform pioneered by the Abu Dhabi Education Council, in the United Arab Emirates, just four short years ago.

Upon arrival I was grateful, not only to be in the company of other educators, but for the Nirvana travel staff member seen holding up the sign indicating “ADEC teachers” as we arrived at the airport.  From this moment on we were under the care of a gracious employer, who has had the arduous coordinating task of organizing staff to deal with hundreds of residency visas, bank cards, health cards, police checks, health clinic visits, tours of our future family accommodations throughout Abu Dhabi, and assisting with the orientation into our new homeland and educational system.  Abu Dhabi city is an international, multicultural mecca, and I was surprised to learn that the majority of the people are expats, with only 20 per cent of the population being native to the UAE.

The multitude of cranes which dot the landscape are a testament to the rapid growth and expansion plans for an evolving city with a vision set for completion in 2030.  It seems incredible that only a half century ago, such infrastructure was non-existent and built up from a land covered in desert sand.  I had expected Abu Dhabi to have modern infrastructure but was still surprised by its broad boulevards, shops, restaurants, office buildings and apartments, and the unanticipated bounty of regional flora.

Arriving here in August the temperatures have hovered in the mid 40’s, so air conditioned buses, shuttles and taxis are the norm when traveling even short distances.  Another consideration at this time of year, is the significance of the Holy month of Ramadan.  During Ramadan, Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until dusk.  As a guest from another homeland it has been important to be mindful and respectful of customs, traditions and beliefs.  Although we’ve benefited from the provision of breakfast at the hotel each morning, during the day local restaurants, food shops or cafes have remained closed.  Drinking water or other beverage, chewing gum or eating in any public place is not done, even by expats, out of sensitivity and respect for those who are fasting. Once the sun has set, and Iftar begins – an evening meal when Muslims break their fast – the city is bustling and vibrant. As a newcomer to the UAE there have had to be adjustments to time lines for daily schedules.  At this Holy time, and with soaring heat, many of our personal daily outings have been completed prior to noon, but commencing again after 7 pm, often with many expat teachers taking time to nap or rest in midday.

Dress in the UAE is more conservative and modest than many of us may be accustomed. This region is accepting of tourists in western clothing, and many retail stores sell similar fashions as those back home.  As teachers in a public education system we have been advised, that when we are working, to dress in a professional manner, respectful of our local environment and customs. Clothing for women should cover up to the collar bone, down to the wrist and over the ankles, while it is recommended that men wear a crisp shirt, pants and a tie.  Until arriving here, I was unaware of the numerous styles or embroidery that adorn woman’s traditional abayas (a large, loose fitting black cloak) and hijab (headscarf) or that the type of dress selected reflects a woman’s environment, traditions, heritage, religious beliefs, and the personality of her society, along with her personal taste and fashion trends.

In a few short weeks school will begin and I will be faced with a new learning curve as I prepare for my assignment.

There are bound to be moments of disorientation along the way, and I will no doubt make mistakes as I adjust to a society deeply rooted in a unique history, culture and religious beliefs. However, as I embark on this new educational journey and settle aside my western ideologies, guiding words from our orientation session will remind me that when faced with challenges the keys will be in my ability to remain flexible, adaptable and tolerant.

I look forward to the months ahead and anticipate as much positive growth in my own learning, as that of the Abu Dhabi Emirati students.