Highlighting yet another member of the diverse Abu Dhabi community this week, come learn more about Kapil Dhall
Tell us a little bit of yourself
I’m Kapil, a passionate hotelier by profession for over two decades and a travel fanatic by choice. I love sharing all my lifestyle and personal experiences on Instagram under @kayd.times.
When I’m not drenched in revenue numbers, you’ll find me cooking hearty meals for loved ones or working out in the gym.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move
Being a hotelier comes with its perks and that is why Abu Dhabi first happened to me in 2015. I joined a stunning property and later went on to explore the neighbouring delightful island of Bahrain where we had a great time.
But soon I realised that Abu Dhabi was home and decided to join another iconic property on Saadiyat Island. Feeling safe, heard and valued as a resident is a rare combination to get for an expat and Abu Dhabi checks all the boxes.
How has living in Abu Dhabi shaped your sense of belonging and community?
With over 80 per cent of the UAE population constituting expats alongside the country’s consistent ranking for expats’ happiness and stability it’s a no-brainer that the UAE capital and country and large are big on building communities where there is a sense of belonging.
Living in Abu Dhabi has exposed us to discipline, care and giving back to the people
Can you tell us about a particular person in Abu Dhabi who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
This one goes to my spouse, I am overwhelmed with the encouragement and support I receive from her daily. Her constant motivation keeps me focused and pushes me to achieve a little extra. The way she is managing her debut book project as an author, despite running the overall home operations flawlessly is just commendable. This gives me a daily dose of energy and keeps me craving more
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
In a heartbeat, I can say that despite travelling to multiple countries there are no sunsets quite like the Abu Dhabi ones. The perfectly painted skies and clouds contribute to my evening drives after work every single evening.
Another personal favourite of mine is the travel connectivity from Abu Dhabi to the world so that stands out for me other than the vibrant beaches, sense of community, and warmth of the culture.
A myth about Abu Dhabi that you would like to bust
Quite a known one to all, people think of the city as one you could just visit for a day or two, and you’d rather explore other emirates because of the myth that Abu Dhabi has very limited things to offer.
It’s quite the opposite though, Abu Dhabi can easily keep you entertained with a number of family and individual activities/attractions to do. From the Yas Parks, Saadiyat Island (the most exotic beach in UAE), SeaWorld to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Zayed Festival or the newly opened Snow World – you name it and the UAE capital has it all.
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Abu Dhabi community in your own life?
Abu Dhabi will always stay close to my heart given my son was born here. To date, I recall those memories and will always cherish my experience.
Otherwise, I would like to highlight one incident where I almost lost my mobile phone while returning from the airport. I immediately rushed to the police station and in a matter of an hour, my mobile was recovered and delivered to me, which left me astounded. That’s how safe and hospitable this beautiful city is.
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