I owe you the revelation of two things: 1) “You” are a powerhouse within yourself and whatever comes your way, every one of us is created to tackle it! 2) No problem in this world is without a solution.

The unknown land, me away from family, and the oncoming challenges – all doable and worth it. The struggles were intense, but my inner voice was enormously strong, something that many of us do not know or have not experienced. Be with me from 2007 to 2017 as I take you through the roughs and riches, the storms and sails, the dawn to dusk of the Emirates!!

Though the book describes the darkest of minutes and days, some scaring me even now, for the celebrations and days of joy, I have made it quite pictorial for you to know that behind the dark clouds, waits the light, the dawn!

The Emirates showcases the glitter and the promise of jobs with a good salary. Coming from a humble background as a secretary for most of my work life, getting a job overseas was not part of the plan. Life challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they are supposed to help you discover who you are or what you can truly achieve and perform. I have always wanted to have the best for my family and that is what pushed me to take this challenge, not aware of what I am signing up for! I must say I had some of the best years in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The best of work opportunities, the best of people connections and friends. Friends who became family. Huge life lessons. If I were to summarise the positives of my eight odd years, it made me ‘Bold’!

Tackling my phobias, fear of being almost kidnapped, hatred from other nationalities and some of our own, the greed of the job position, making friends and bonding relations that are life in the unknown land, battling the doubtful eyes of neighbors, loneliness to the core and silence to kill, the homesickness that I could choke on, my pillow always soaked wet with tears, being viewed as easy prey by some, the challenge of having to adjust to a bed space, hating myself for what I could not control, snoring! Situations that challenged my passion, commitment, and truthfulness.

In 2007, my journey began with Al Ain, the largest UAE City, its simplicity and beauty are enchanting. Then came the opportunity at Abu Dhabi the largest among the Emirates and finally the glittering and tempting Dubai.