Find out why she never wants to live anywhere
Originally from India, Sunaina has made the capital of the UAE her home and shares with us why she loves this city so much.
Time to meet Sunaina.
Tell us a little bit of yourself.
I am Sunaina Riyaz, an Indian expat leaving in Abu Dhabi with my husband and kids. I am a fun loving and lively person full of energy. Currently, I am an Abu Dhabi blogger on Instagram and the unseen face behind my page ‘Munch_Freak’, which is mainly based on my passion, love for food and the beauty of this city, which has encouraged me to show all the happenings around Abu Dhabi through my content.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
Born and bought up in India, I have been living in Abu Dhabi for the past 20 years. I can’t imagine leaving this city as it’s my favorite place to call home. As an expat this country has given me all I need, and living here has made me realise that dreams do come true.
How has living in Abu Dhabi shaped your sense of belonging and community?
Abu Dhabi is the first city I visited in the UAE and I was instantly connected so much that I have never thought of relocating from this city. It has given me a lot, shaped me to be who I am today. It is the perfect city to live in.
Can you tell us about a particular person in Dubai who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
The UAE has always been the centre in welcoming and accepting people from all around the world. Abu Dhabi is recognised by its dignity and its name from the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan (Father of Nation); the vision he has set for the people is remarkable. I just simply admire his vision and kindness to people from every background without discrimination, as well as being helpful in all ways.
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
I simply love Abu Dhabi city and I have so many reasons to do so. I just love to be here, connect with new people from different backgrounds, culture, tradition, food, and the way this place has taught me everything. I am enjoying every bit of it. This city has given me so much; cherish every moment with joy.
A myth about Abu Dhabi that you would like to bust.
That there isn’t much to do in the capital is one myth I hear a lot from people who do not live here. But Abu Dhabi is a happening city where it has everything we want; there is no need to drive all the way to Dubai just because they are not aware of what’s happening here. We in Abu Dhabi have our own way of presenting things and reaching out.
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Dubai community in your own life?
We have created so many memorable moments in this city. There is no doubt that it’s one of safest city to live in. I can recall an incident that happened a few years back when my little boy went missing in one of the malls in Abu Dhabi and I couldn’t find him for a long time. I reached out to the authorities; they comforted me and checked the CCTV and couldn’t figure out where he was. I was panicking, but the authorities acted so quickly and found him in a candy shop.
We are so carefree in UAE because back of our mind we always have that strong feeling of safety, helpfulness, and close bonding with the society. What more do you need in life?
To meet more people in Abu Dhabi, visit Yalla Abu Dhabi
