Tamara busts some deeply held myths about Abu Dhabi
Tamara Clarke and her young family have lived in the capital for 12 years now, all of whom are enjoying the fruits that the safest city in the world offers.
An accomplished author and journalist, Tamara shares a poignant moment that reinforces the view that the Abu Dhabi community is strong and supportive.
Here’s your chance to step into the world of Abu Dhabi through Tamara’s experiences.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m an American author and journalist living in the capital with my husband and two sons, the youngest of which was born here.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
I moved to the UAE in 2012. My husband is an educator and he’d always dreamed of teaching abroad. When presented with the opportunity to live and work in Abu Dhabi, we thought “okay, let’s give it a try” and nearly 12 years later, we’re still here enjoying life.
How has Abu Dhabi shaped your sense of belonging and community?
Living in Abu Dhabi has deepened my sense of belonging and community. Being an expat here among people from so many different cultures and walks of life has affirmed my belief that kinship is not the only basis for family. You can choose your family and sometimes the most unlikely encounters lead to beautiful friendships.
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Can you tell us about a particular person in Abu Dhabi who had a significant impact on your life and why?
It’s very hard to narrow it down to one person. I’d say, collectively, all of the friends and acquaintances here have left an indelible mark on my life.
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
My favourite thing about Abu Dhabi is that it is arguably the most family-friendly of all the emirates. From residential offerings in a bustling metropolis to all-inclusive suburban communities, there are housing options to suit every lifestyle. Plus, having been voted among the safest cities in the world for several consecutive years, Abu Dhabi provides a special comfort and peace of mind with respect to raising children in the UAE.
A myth about Abu Dhabi that you’d like to bust
That it’s boring. Sure, Abu Dhabi has 5-star dining and nightlife that rivals Dubai but beyond that it’s a treasure trove of things to see and do. The capital is brimming with entertainment, arts and culture from Louvre Abu Dhabi to F1, Mubadala Tennis and the many events held at Etihad Arena including concerts – and my family’s all-time favorite, NBA pre-season games – there’s so much to do in Abu Dhabi!
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of Abu Dhabi in your own life?
In an unfortunate twist of fate, we got a flat tyre on a road trip to Al Ain. An Emirati gentleman promptly pulled over, got out and shook my husband’s hand. He kindly offered to take my children and I to a nearby retail area with shops and restaurants, which was safer for us than waiting for roadside assistance on the side of the highway. We accepted this help from a stranger, which is something we likely wouldn’t have felt comfortable doing in our home country. I will never forget the kindness and generosity shown to us at that time.
To read more stories from Abu Dhabi people, visit Yalla Abu Dhabi
