Ali captures the captivating beauty of this city through his lens
Those of you who have been following our Instagram pages, and indeed, reading our magazine, may have heard of Ali Ahad.
A keen photographer, not only is his Instagram account superb, but even some of his photographs have made the cover of Yalla Abu Dhabi magazine.
Want to know more?
Let’s get to know Ali Ahmad.
Tell us a little bit of yourself
I’m Ali Ahmad, working as a Service Delivery Manager in an IT firm based in Abu Dhabi. Beyond my professional role, I’m a passionate hobbyist photographer. Alongside my wife and three kids, I call Abu Dhabi home. In my spare moments, I indulge in photography, capturing the captivating beauty of this city through my lens.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
Before relocating to Abu Dhabi, I worked at a software house in Pakistan. A friend of mine, already employed in Abu Dhabi, informed me about a job opening. Intrigued, I applied and underwent a series of interviews. To my delight, I received the offer letter within a week. Without hesitation, I accepted and commenced my journey to Abu Dhabi. On the 19th of February 2012, I landed in this vibrant city, and since then, it has become my home.
How has living in Abu Dhabi shaped your sense of belonging and community?
Living in Abu Dhabi is a great chance to explore many different cultures and traditions, which helps create a strong feeling of belonging and community. People from all over the world live here, including locals from the UAE and people from other countries. Everyone is welcomed warmly, especially by Emirati locals who are known for their hospitality. Sharing experiences like navigating the city or joining cultural events brings people together and helps them bond. Also, community projects encourage people to work together, making Abu Dhabi a friendly and inclusive place to live where everyone can feel part of a diverse community.
Can you tell us about a particular person in Abu Dhabi who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
In Abu Dhabi, where diversity thrives and people from various backgrounds intersect daily, it’s difficult to pinpoint a single individual who has had a significant impact on my life. Instead, the essence of Abu Dhabi lies in the continuous exchange of knowledge, experiences, and interactions with a multitude of people from different nationalities, cultures, and religions.
Each encounter presents an opportunity for learning and growth, as I am constantly inspired and enriched by the perspectives and experiences shared by those around me. Whether it’s a brief conversation with a stranger or a deeper connection formed over time, every interaction contributes to my personal development and understanding of the world.
In Abu Dhabi, the diversity of individuals and the richness of their experiences collectively shape my journey, reminding me to embrace the beauty of continuous learning and the value of every encounter, no matter how fleeting.
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
The desert and especially darkest sky in UAE. If you go to Al Qua, it’s in the desert, far away from busy cities. At night, there are no bright lights around, so the sky looks dark and full of stars. It’s a peaceful spot where you can see the beauty of the night sky without any distractions. It shows us how calm and beautiful the desert can be, away from the noise and lights of the city.
A myth about Abu Dhabi that you would like to bust
One myth about Abu Dhabi that needs busting is that it’s just a city of luxury and wealth, without much culture or history. Abu Dhabi has a rich heritage, with its roots deeply embedded in Bedouin traditions and a thriving arts and cultural scene. Beyond the glamorous skyscrapers and lavish lifestyles, Abu Dhabi offers a diverse tapestry of history, art, and tradition waiting to be explored. From the ancient forts and historic sites to vibrant souks and contemporary art galleries, Abu Dhabi has much more depth and diversity than the stereotype suggests.
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Abu Dhabi community in your own life?
Before Covid, I had the opportunity to attend mass iftar at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi on a couple of occasions, and it was truly remarkable to witness the level of hospitality and organisation extended to thousands of people.
The event was impeccably organised, with rows upon rows of tents elegantly set up to accommodate the large gathering. Despite the vast number of attendees, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie as everyone came together to break their fast.
The generosity and inclusivity displayed during the iftar highlighted the strong sense of community and hospitality that defines Abu Dhabi. It was an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impression, showcasing the spirit of togetherness and compassion that thrives within the UAE’s capital city.
To meet more Abu Dhabi People, visit Yalla Abu Dhabi