A Moment With
Recently , I have seen many reading clubs for adults but none for kids except at school . Perhaps a children ’ s museum for 4-16 year olds could help in further promoting this initiative . Another idea for useful learning ; could be for parents to participate more by spending time with their children instead of sending them with the housemaids just for playing at community gardens during winter .
In 2017 , the advanced library , which will be opening in Dubai , will be a hub for printing books , reading , cultural events , innovations and sharing knowledge .
Although it is a challenging initiative , we can make it work . Let us look at how can we challenge children , teenagers and adults to read . Despite the technologies existing in our daily life we should try to make reading more enjoyable for everyone . We should also examine the role of parents in making reading a habit at home .
We can measure the Year of Reading by the end of 2016 . However , if we give this initiative serious consideration , I am convinced that we will receive greater benefits in the years to come .
Who was your favourite teacher and why ?
When I reflect on my school days and the massive effort of my teachers , I really appreciate what I have accomplished in my life . My favourite teachers were Arabic , English and Geography . Both Arabic and English teachers exposed me to reading . They encouraged me to read a lot . In addition , the daily challenges from my Geography teacher , led me to read and explore the beauty of the world .
Share with us two common misconceptions about Emirati people and culture that others may have , that you would like to correct ?
The first misconception is that Emiratis are not hard workers . We work hard , whether it is in government or in the private sector . Evidence of our commitment to hard work can be seen in what we have achieved since December 2 , 1971 , our National Day . We contribute to the wealth of our country in all areas of industry . Our country ’ s growth over the past 4 decades can be summarised in 4 major phases . Firstly , 1973 oil was representing 90 % of the GDP . Secondly , our education system was at its early and typical learning stage . Thirdly , in 1990 ’ s United Arab Emirates qualified at the FIFA World Cup in Italy , leading to worldwide recognition of the country by its major landmarks , specifically the Burj Al Arab in Dubai . Finally , 2015 was the Year of Innovation , where Emiratis at all levels participated and introduced many initiatives to help the government and private sector to enhance the quality of life in the UAE .
The second misconception is that Emiratis only celebrate Islamic occasions ( Ramadan , Eid Al Fitr , Eid Al Adha ) and other religions are not welcome to celebrate their festivals . Although , the majority of the population is Muslim , we celebrate the festivals with our brothers and sisters by exchanging gifts , food and much more .
How do you pass on important Emirati traditions to your children ?
Respect : Regardless of age , race , identity and religion , which are the main principles that my parents taught me .
Hospitality : We are trained since childhood to be welcoming and generous , especially when we receive guests at home .
Sharing is caring : Involve the children in the family first , in order to keep the family together . Children learn first at home before they are able to contribute to society .
Honesty : We learnt to be honest . I always tell my children that honesty is the key to a clear conscience , a peaceful soul and mind .
What is one thing that you would like to see happen for young people in order to help them to have a more secure future ?
“ The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step ” - Lao Tzu
Besides staying connected to our heritage , I would love young people to study what they love . With knowledge , they can lead the country to a better future .
What is the one thing that you would like the world to know about Abu Dhabi ?
Abu Dhabi is a warm welcoming destination . There is a wide range of activities to be enjoyed around the year , such as Book Fairs , Exhibitions , Classical Music Festivals , Camel Races and Dates Festivals , Hunting and Heritage Exhibitions , Qasr Al Hosn Festival , Desert Safari , water sport activities , Formula 1 , remarkable concerts and attractions . Additionally , there are a number of upcoming attractions , which will enrich everyone ’ s experience .
What is the best advice that you have received ? How has it helped you ?
The best advice I have received from my mother is “ Do your best , God will do the rest ”. This contains two parts . My part is essential . By following this advice in my daily life , by the grace of Allah , I have accomplished many tasks without the fear of failure and I hope to accomplish even more by doing the right things .
Faisal receives congratulations at his MBA graduation .
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After The Bell May - Jun 2016