Saadiyat Island is Mark’s place to be
Tell us a little bit about yourself
I‘m a 30-year-old marketing & communications professional by trade, and I have a passion for sports, travel and food. I originally hail from Johannesburg, South Africa, but Abu Dhabi has been my home for the past two and a half years.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
The move happened in 2022. I was looking for a new challenge and a chance to re-engage with the rich Middle Eastern culture – having lived in Muscat and Dubai in the past. Abu Dhabi, with its booming business scene and vibrant mix of people, also really appealed to me as a new chapter. In addition, having the year-round sunshine again doesn’t hurt!
How has living in Abu Dhabi shaped your sense of belonging and community?
Honestly, it has been amazing. Abu Dhabi is a real melting pot of cultures, and I’ve met some incredible people from all over the world. There’s a strong sense of community here, with plenty of events and activities to connect with like-minded citizens and expats. Even though I wasn’t born here, I feel a real sense of belonging – Abu Dhabi has become a true home for me.
An important note: I wasn’t too hasty this time round to seek and find a South African community, which may be the easier thing to do for some, instead, I trusted the notion of meeting new types of people and allowing myself to step out of my comfort zone. It has been worth it, more than what I expected.
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Can you tell us about a particular person in Abu Dhabi who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
I have an incredible colleague named Sara, she hails from Lisbon, Portugal, and made the move to Abu Dhabi at a similar time as I did. When I first arrived, everything felt a bit overwhelming considering how proactive and fast-paced the Abu Dhabi market had become to get out of the Covid-funk, and straight into tourism and business.
Sara went above and beyond; showing me the ropes, introducing me to people, corporate societies (groups) and even inviting me to celebrate Eid with an Emirati client’s family. The genuine warmth and willingness to help made the transition so much smoother.
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
The desert is probably an easy answer to steer towards, but in all honesty, I love Saadiyat. I play golf, I grape and dine, I see the sights in and around the Island – I have fallen in love with it. If I won the lottery tomorrow, I would buy an apartment there the same day!
A myth about Abu Dhabi that you would like to bust
The biggest misconception I keep coming across is that Abu Dhabi operates at a “slower” pace than most big cities. But I think this deserves to be defined better. I wouldn’t label it as a “slower” pace, but more efficient. It’s an innovative hub, a pioneering ‘idea machine’ – there is never a slow news day in Abu Dhabi! There’s less traffic, the drives between attractions are easy and comfortable, the variety of activities on each of the respective islands are world-class and never-ending – I could go on, and on. Yas Island, as an example, speaks for itself, and there is a reason the F1 has this ripple effect across the emirate in a unique way; everyone and everything works in tandem.
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Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Abu Dhabi community in your own life?
The spirit of Abu Dhabi truly came alive at a recent community barbecue hosted by friends. It was a beautiful mix of families from all over the world, sharing delicious food, laughter and music.
However, on that particular day, there was an added layer of excitement – the Rugby World Cup final between South Africa and New Zealand! My South African pride was soaring, and with a touch of friendly rivalry, I made a wager with a Kiwi friend. The winner could shave the loser’s head! Thankfully, South Africa emerged victorious, and I got to give my friend a good-natured haircut.
But the story doesn’t end there! In true South African spirit, I turned the tables and offered him the clippers, asking him to shave my head too – all in good fun! Needless to say, it was a hilarious and unforgettable moment for everyone involved.
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