The loud and proud Irishman talks us through the ups and ups of living in Abu Dhabi
As part of Abu Dhabi People, this week we turn the spotlight on Declan Garrett. An Irishman heavily involved in the community, he’s the chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Wolfhounds football club as well as the Head of Safety and Security at Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island.
Take a look at his journey in the UAE capital so far.
Tell us a little bit about yourself
My name is Declan Garrett and I am from Ireland. I am chairman of the Irish Wolfhounds soccer club and also act as Safety and Security Section Head at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
I moved here in 2017 to join the Department of Tourism and Culture. I had previously worked in the National Gallery so the development of the museums on Saadiyat Island was a fantastic opportunity to develop my career and be part of the development of the cultural sector in the UAE. I was very impressed by their vision and ambition and motivated to be part of their journey.
How has living in Abu Dhabi shaped your sense of belonging and community?
Obviously, the job I do is very connected with the vision for the city and I have been happy to have played a part in implementing their strategy within the context of my professional life.
On a personal level, the Irish and English communities and beyond have a very special bond. Sport brings so many people together and with the GAA and football scene here it’s like being part of a big family. You meet some amazing people and forge lifelong friendships.
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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?
It would be unfair to pick a particular person as there have been so many people that have had a positive impact on my life here. Everyone I’ve come into contact with here have been great. You form different personal and professional relationships. They all have had an impact in their own way and different personalities bring different perspectives and memories.
What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
There are so many but I guess it is probably the ‘can do’ attitude of the emirate and their vision and ambition, and they get things done.
A myth about Abu Dhabi that you would like to bust
Abu Dhabi is not Dubai. People in Ireland assume Dubai is all that’s here. I’ve given up correcting the “how are things in Dubai” questions at home!
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Abu Dhabi community in your own life?
Oh, there are so many but the one that always springs to mind is Christmas 2020. I got Covid the day before and had to quarantine for ten days. On Christmas Day Mike Lake of MA Buckleys brought me Christmas Dinner. Not withstanding the Santa Claus outfit he appeared to the door in, it was a genuine act of kindness and one I won’t forget.
And I have had the pleasure to have experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Emirati people many times also and many other memories with the community through professional and personal interactions.
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