Life in Dubai Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Undefined Declarations

Random Post: Planning versus Improvising

I must admit, I have a crazy obsession with lists. I make lists for everything; from to-do lists for the next day’s tasks, to grocery/random shopping lists, to future plans lists. My uncontrollable compulsive obsession with lists even gets me writing lists for the topics that I want to discuss with the people that I meet! sometimes these people are ones who I meet for the first time for business, but many times, they’re just friends who I’m catching up with over lunch or coffee!

I’ve always been super organized, and overly systematic in my thoughts, my plans and my life in general. Now while this may not necessarily be a bad thing, or anything to be worried about, the conflict that I face when dealing with others who don’t follow the same pattern of thinking or lifestyle was my main inspiration to write this post.

Anyone who lives in Dubai knows that it’s a melting pot of different ethnic groups, religions and nationalities. Each with their own set of values, cultures and lifestyles. This strong multi-cultured kaleidoscope obviously has its advantages and challenges. It’s always interesting and insightful to learn about other backgrounds and cultures, to hear stories from different voices and nationalities, and to connect with others who share your triumphs or successes.

At the same time, dealing with people from multiple parts of the world can be challenging and draining at times. Some of the differences between cultures can cause serious conflict between individuals, and lead to immense stress and misunderstandings. The value of time and planning are one of the main concepts of clashes between people from different cultures and backgrounds.

While some of us might be punctual to the minute when it comes to time, others may not think it’s a big deal if they showed up 20 or 30 minutes late to an appointment or a meeting. Planning is another one. While I like to plan the next day’s tasks well in advance, and arrange any meetings with people accordingly, those individuals who I’m meeting with may not have given that appointment much consideration and will therefore end up cancelling at the last minute, because they found out that they had other “commitments” and so won’t be able to make it.

For someone who occasionally plans their casual conversations with friends and family, I find it difficult to understand people who act so spontaneously and who make their plans up as they go about their lives. Not only do I don’t get them, I also try my best to avoid meeting them or working with them, resort to distancing myself from them, and sadly, I also loose most of my respect for them.

I’m not saying that relying on your wits and doing things randomly is a no-no at all times. Sometimes, being spontaneous leads to fun experiences, gets you to explore new things, and even brings the things that you need the most your way!

This is why, I think a balance between planning and improvisation is the best way to go. You shouldn’t be totally against going with the flow, as you never know where that might take you. Making room for spontaneity is essential in keeping our lives rich and vibrant, away from boring routines and monotonous activities and lifestyles. So, despite not being totally against being spontaneous, I am a firm believer in planning and setting daily goals for yourself.

I always wonder how non-planners know when they’ve reached a specific goal that they have set for themselves? Or do they not bother with setting goals and working towards them in the first place?

In my opinion, the only way that you can progress and improve yourself and your life is by setting definite goals, working towards them, and then changing them along the way. Not sure how that works for people who don’t like to make plans. I tend to set all types of goals for myself; personal, career, financial. And in the end, they are all connected to make up who you are and what kind of life you are – will be – living.

I always aim big, then lower my goals according to reality. I set very high standards – sometimes unrealistic or unachievable – and then work my way towards them. Until I either reach those exact goals, others that are close, or decide on new goals and work towards those.

OK, for the sake of not wanting this post to turn into a self-help book (article in this case), I will end my post by asking you to tell me what type of person do you consider yourself to be – an avid planner or someone who likes to be creative and make things up as they go along? Do you mostly rely on your instincts and just do what feels right for that moment in time? or do you have endless to-do lists and planner books filled with daily tasks, and plans for next year’s summer holiday maybe?

I would love to hear your views on this 🙂

Love,

The Rebellious Saudi Diva xxx

UD Review: Pilates with Tribefit ME!

It was my second time to visit this fitness center which brands itself as a “Fitness and Social Club”. My first visit was during an outdoor yoga event organized by the “Mother, Baby and Child” magazine. Needless to say, it was a highly rejuvenating and relaxing experience to do yoga at a terrace, when the weather was breezy and cool. This time, I was back to Tribefit to check out their Pilates class.

From my personal experience and after two visits to this hip and contemporary fitness club, here’s what I think makes this club different from others and why you should consider visiting:

They offer classes at a professional fitness level, for intermediate to advanced trainees, by highly experienced and motivational instructors.
The club is spacious, with funky and cool interiors, and a number of studios for the different group exercise classes they offer.
There’s an organic food specialty cafe inside the club.
The club regularly organizes social and fitness events for both its members and non-members.
It’s located within short walking distance from the JLT Metro Station (Marina side). Which makes it perfect for those who don’t drive (like moi), or who prefer to take the metro for its convenience.

Now, from my personal point of view, how did I feel about Tribefit’s concept and venue?

The yoga studio where we had our Pilates class had floor to ceiling glass windows, with a view of the Marina-JBR bridge. So it felt like I was in the heart of new Dubai, surrounded by life – as pedestrians walked by over the renowned bridge. It also made me feel nostalgic to my London days! Everything about that studio, the view from those huge windows, the people passing by…all of my surroundings at that moment in time could only translate to one thing: a trip down memory lane to my days in London town 🙂 So if any of you readers are going through some kind of nostalgia for your London days, then I would suggest a simple trip to Tribefit 🙂
Anyone who has lived in Dubai as a single person might have gone through the process of endlessly looking for a compatible partner, only to be left hopeless and disappointed. Well, guess what? there’s a secret place where you can get fit, have fun while doing it, AND get to meet new people who share your interests, love for fitness and positive outlook on life! I believe that anyone who is single and looking for love in the city of Dubai, should give Tribefit a try and see where it goes.

How was the Pilates Class?

The instructor was very friendly and she encourages you to work hard in class, in a very motivational and friendly way.
The class is like one big family. Everyone was so friendly – including the trainer – Kate. The ambiance of the class was very social and friendly.
You will definitely experience the difference in this Pilates class from others. It’s designed for advanced students, with some of the moves being too challenging for not-so fit people like me! However, I was told that the level of difficulty increases as the week goes by. And since I was there on a Thursday, the class was quite intense!
Since some of the postures are too advanced, Kate would guide us on the alternative move for beginners. Which was great. So she would demonstrate the move for the various fitness levels of the students in class. That way, no one has an excuse to lay around on the mat and do nothing!
As this is an advanced form of Pilates, you are certain to feel the results after the class. It is more of a fitness/strengthening/calorie-burning exercise. And not your typical Pilates class.

Check out these two experts in their best headstand split pose! P.S. They are loyal Yoga and Pilates students 🙂

Anna and Tariq doing the headstand split!

Extra Points:

The Yoga studio was beautifully dimmed during our class, with color-changing lights in the ceiling. The ambiance was so relaxing and soothing.
The music playlist was excellent during the class, and it helped in synchronizing the moves to the song beats. Cool factor: high 🙂
Mats, towels of big and small sizes, and lockers are provided to all students. So are showers, sauna and changing room facilities.
Being a big fan of Elken Cafe, I must admit that having a branch of that cafe in my fitness club does score high in my books 🙂
As I mentioned earlier, the location is key for folks who don’t drive – like me. So being able to walk a few steps to the club from the Metro station is a huge plus for me!

Hip and Modern Interior at Tribefit Marina

Who should join Tribefit?

If you’re looking to meet new people and make new friends while socializing in a casual, friendly and positive environment.
If you’re single and are looking to meet new people in a different setting to the typical bar/club scene.
If you live in or around the Marina area, and don’t drive!
If you’re sick and tired of going to your building’s gym, the neighborhood gym, or of walking on the treadmill at your home.
If you can’t stand walking, jogging, or running in the midst of Dubai summer. And are fed up of doing the rounds at the Marina Promenade.
If you hate the loneliness that comes with using the gym equipment and working out on your own.
If you need highly experienced and professional fitness trainers to motivate and guide you to achieve those new year resolutions which you can never seem to reach with every passing season, or year!
If you want to work out in a hip, contemporary and upbeat environment. Where you can meet a friendly and positive crowd.

Contact:

Check out Tribefit’s web site, Facebook Page, or attend one of their social events! Their next event is on Tuesday, August 19. It’s a Bikram Yoga event at 7:30 pm 🙂

I personally look forward to visiting this uber cool and happening club sometime soon to try out another class. And at a future date, I would like to become a member and try out my luck in the Tribal love scene 😉

UD Review: Brunch at Le Rivage in Ocean View Hotel

Sweet Olivia and I at Brunch at Ocean View Hotel JBR

If you asked me what I did on a typical Friday afternoon, I’m not sure if I would have a definite answer. Many people spend their Fridays visiting family or having brunch with friends, or just lounging by the beach on a nice sunny day. Being single and living alone in this city, I would say that I put more effort into organizing going to concerts or parties with friends, attending art or community events, or just simply going out for a casual dinner, movie night or walk at the Marina promenade.

This Friday though, I got invited by friends to the brunch at Le Rivage Brasserie at the latest addition to the JBR walk hotel scene: JA Ocean View Hotel.

If you decide to head out there for brunch, I would strongly recommend that you sit outside. There’s a nice terrace area with a very chilled vibe. You will still be able to hear your all-time favorite hits being played by the live band inside. So don’t worry about missing out on that. My friends and I all agreed on the fact that the live band playing at the brunch was actually very good! It was so entertaining hearing them play every time we went indoors to fill up our plates from the extensive buffet.

The brunch has a wide range of International dishes to satisfy all your moods and preferences. It also features live cooking stations, which I must admit that my favorite was the eggs Benedict one 🙂 The sushi station offered a good selection of various sushi roll options – another favorite of mine.

One thing you don’t want to miss at this lively yet relaxed brunch is the wheat grass and Andalusian gazpacho shots. They were incredibly refreshing and we couldn’t help but go back to the buffet for more!

Of course, no brunch is ever complete without dessert. And this one will keep you wondering whether to stack up on fluffy freshly made waffles, divine date pudding cake, or just indulge in fresh fruit skewers dipped in chocolate syrup and pistachio or almond flakes!

What can I say…next time I get an invite to go to a brunch, I will not think twice about over-eating! It’s only a once a week affair, right? 🙂

Check out my previous posts on the JA Golf Resort and Spa – my favorite destination for a mini getaway in Dubai 🙂

Ciao for now X

My Heavenly Valentine’s with Yoga Fest ME :)

My plan for the day involved working on my essay that’s due this Monday, then going for two yoga sessions at Dubai’s coolest outdoor yoga event: Yoga Fest, before going back home for more essay research. But after my visit to the event, I changed my original plan and decided to write this post instead of working on my University assignment, because I didn’t want people to miss out on this great event!

Yogafest is a free sustainable community event that takes place once a year in Dubai Internet City’s Ampitheater. The event brings together teachers and yoga enthusiasts in a peaceful outdoor setting. All while supporting charities and great causes.

The outdoor setting of the event was so peaceful and perfect for doing yoga, pilates or meditation. The DIC Ampitheater is located at the lake side, which means that you get to do yoga beside a lake with a nice fountain. While doing our Yin yoga, I could hear the sound of the birds chirping. That added more serenity to the already relaxing experience.

Throughout the event’s two days, you can attend classes for free at the different tents spread across the green patches of grass. Being able to lay on the grass is a great luxury for us here in the UAE, so me and my friend Olivia were happy just being in the great outdoors and breathing some fresh air.

All the classes at the event are free except for the Pilates and family tent classes. Those have limited space in them and are therefore not included in the day pass. You can find all the information about registration and the classes schedule on the web site.

I can’t even begin to describe how well-planned and organized this event was. And this comes as no surprise when you know that the founder of this great community initiative, Elaine Kelly is a fitness teacher with a strong corporate background.

Although the event only takes place once a year, there is a regular full moon yoga every month at the same location. It is also free of charge….the next one is on the 14th of March. So mark your calendars now!

But since my friend Olivia and I enjoyed our yoga sessions so much, I would suggest that you head out there tomorrow and not wait for next month. It’s the best way to spend your day or afternoon or evening and you will leave feeling energized and blessed.

Olivia’s friends who saw her after the yoga sessions told her that her skin was glowing. I felt more at peace with myself…more positive and thankful for my life. I even decided to write this review instead of postponing it to next week, because I wanted to share my experience with the readers before the festival ended.

So, if you could take some time out tomorrow to do one thing, let it be a visit to Yogafest 🙂

In the end, I want to wish all the single people out there a great Valentine’s…one in which they learn to love themselves more and appreciate the simple things that life gives us every day.

And remember to always embrace life and your present situation, whatever it is…even if you are tired of being alone. There are so many things to discover and explore….endless experiences and moments of joy to share with others.

One of the things that I like about being single is being able to constantly learn new things and try out different experiences…so if I ever meet someone interesting and compatible, he must be up for full moon yoga at Yogafest’s tranquil outdoor tent 🙂

Yogfest's tranquil outdoor setting — Yogfest’s tranquil outdoor setting

Olivia in a moment of pure bliss and peacefulness

For more information, check out the Yogafest ME Facebook Page.

UD Review: SRT Basic Course at Illuminations Dubai

Introduction:

In keeping with the topic of this post and aiming to live at a lighter level, I will try to keep this post light, simple, short and sweet 🙂

I’ve always been a fan of spirituality and well-being, so I was delighted to hear about Illuminations from a friend who shared a competition from their Facebook Page with me. The competition was for a Basic SRT Workshop held at the center’s location in JLT. As if getting the chance to attend this insightful course wasn’t enough, I even got the opportunity to meet some lovely individuals who shared my life situations (past and present), experiences and obviously interests!

About Illuminations:

Illuminations is a well-being center which offers a great variety of holistic-based self-development workshops and seminars, meditation sessions, holistic training programs, private consultations and even a collection of holistic products.

They are located in JLT, Fortune Executive Towers, just outside the Dubai Marina Metro Station.

What is SRT?

SRT is a spiritual healing process that has its roots from the Spiritual Response Association in the US. SRT was founded by Robert E. Detzler.

What is SRT Used for?

SRT can be described as a fast and simple form of meditation. It gives similar results achieved by meditation, only in a much shorter span of time. So you end up feeling lighter, with more inner peace and clarity within a very short period of time.

By practicing SRT, you are clearing blocks to mental, emotional and physical healing. The benefits to using this spiritual healing practice are endless, and they cover almost all aspects of a person’s past, present and future life.

I personally believe that this type of therapy which gives immediate positive results is essential for our fast-paced lifestyles.

My Testimonial on the SRT Basic Course:

Since I plan to keep this a light post, let me share with you my honest opinion about the course:

“I was delighted to find out about Illuminations through a Facebook competition that a friend has shared with me. Even more so since the well-being center is located only a few minutes from where I live. The two and a half-day course added a great wealth of knowledge about a new form of spiritual healing that I wasn’t even aware of. The spiritual response therapy course is a shortcut to meditation and its results can be achieved almost immediately. In today’s fast-paced and modern lifestyle, SRT can give you fast and effective results in no time. The healing and clearing process takes place during the days of the course, even with beginners who have no previous experience with meditation or spiritual healing practices.

I was surprised yet pleased to find myself getting intense dreams at night after practicing the methods of SRT throughout the day of the course. Those dreams were directly related to the topics that I wished to resolve with my SRT practice. On the last day of the course, a friend from my building who saw me as I was heading out to the center greatly complimented me on how my face looked glowing. She could see a radical change in my complexion to the better. My emotional well-being has also drastically improved after only two days of taking the course. I found myself getting things done in a timely manner and was feeling more positive and upbeat overall.

Lastly, the course allowed me to meet great new people and make new friends including the instructor. It’s always lovely to meet a group of people who share your interests and life experiences, and possibly tribulations and struggles. My weekend spent taking the basic SRT course was one of the best weekends that I have had in Dubai. It’s one that I will always remember. I honestly look forward to the next workshop with Lukas Putz and to sharing lunch and good times in my area with a genuine and interesting group of people.”

Talk by Lukas Putz on Health on Tuesday 11th of February:

Lukas, the instructor of our SRT Basic course is giving a talk on health tomorrow evening. I strongly recommend this talk for anyone who is even slightly concerned with healthy eating habits and a new way of living. Lukas covered a bit of health during our SRT course, and I can honestly say that what he said was greatly insightful to say the least.

Here are the details for tomorrow’s health talk at More Cafe:

Talk: How to Change Your Life – Tuesday 11th Feb

This is a 2-2.5 hour talk by me on how to improve your life simply by making the right food choices. I will be revealing the reasons why we should not be eating certain foods and how these foods affect our bodies both physically and emotionally.

Venue: More Cafe, Al Marooj Rotana (opposite Dubai Mall)

Date: Tuesday 11th Feb

Time: 6.30pm-9pm

Cost: AED50 (includes a welcome drink)

This talk will be the first of a series of talks each focusing on a particular health related subject. They will include such topics as Acid vs Alkaline, Nutrition workshop, How to cleanse your body and more.

An SRT Advanced Course is coming up soon…

February 14 – 16th – SRT advanced course.

The venue takes place at illuminations and the timings are:
Friday: 10am – 7pm
Saturday: 10am – 7pm
Sunday: 6pm – 10pm
Price: 1895,- Dhs
Kindly contact illuminations on info@illuminationsworld.com

Illuminations Web Site: http://www.illuminationsworld.com/

Illuminations Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/illuminationsworld

For further Information, check out: www.spiritualresponse.us

All the best and Happy Healing!

Motivational Evening at Katsuya Dubai Mall: Media in the Making

I was delighted and honored to be invited to a social event hosted by the lovely Anita Buys at the newly opened Katsuya restaurant in Dubai Mall. The dinner event brought together 15 career-driven women from alternative areas and saw us conversing over many interesting and media-relevant topics. I must say that my favorite topic of discussion that evening was the one involving comparison between journalists and bloggers. Being a blogger and journalism student myself, I constantly face the dilemma of choosing between being a full-time blogger or journalist. As I’m still unsure which one of those career paths will open more doors for me. Listening to views from more experienced media professionals and bloggers definitely helped give me an extra insight into both worlds.

Anita and I would love to meet more inspirational women from the media industry and hear more success stories in Anita’s future events. So if you work in PR/events/print media/online media/blogging or any other relevant industry and would like to join us in the next Media in the Making event, please contact Anita on her e-mail address:

anitabuys2020@gmail.com

Have a look at some photos from our wonderful and inspirational evening at Katsuya Dubai Mall…

Nada from Undefined Declarations Blog and the lovely Anita Buys

A Blogger's Essential Habit: Taking Pictures! — A Blogger’s Essential Habit: Taking Pictures!

Beautiful Outdoor Terrace at Katsuya Dubai Mall

Amazing view of the Dubai Mall Fountain and Souk Al Bahar

Hollywood Rolls - SIMPLY DIVINE! — Hollywood Rolls – SIMPLY DIVINE!

Interesting and engaging discussion at Media in the Making dinner

Nada from Undefined Declarations Blog Enjoying the Evening at Katsuya

Prior to this amazing evening at Katsuya Dubai Mall, I have been to this Japanese dining hub with my American friend from LA. My friend who is a big fan of Katsuya and has been to many of their U.S. branches, has been waiting impatiently for the Dubai Mall branch to open. So once I found out that it was officially open, we went there for lunch on their first official opening day. I’ll be writing a review on that great lunch that I had with my friend Nia on that first opening day soon. So stay tuned for that.

In the end, I would like to thank the lovely and dynamic Anita Buys for organizing and hosting this event. Special thanks to the friendly and welcoming team at Katsuya Dubai Mall for their warm and generous hospitality that evening.

Signing off with a note to say that all dreams are achievable and that everything is possible with a little bit of determination, hard work and optimism. Add to that: a lot of patience 🙂

UD Recipe Story: Nia’s Mexican Salsa and Guacamole Dip

I’ve always been a huge fan of Mexican cuisine, so I was very excited when my Mexican American friend Nia suggested to make some authentic dips at my place.

Nia’s recipes for the traditional salsa and guacamole dips are authentic ones, that have been passed on from one generation to another. It’s so generous of her to share with us these original and one-off recipes that only real Mexicans know how to make!

Let’s start with the ingredients for the salsa and guacamole dips:

Avocados: choosing the right type of avocados is essential to the success of this recipe. You need to look for Mexican or U.S. avocados that are: smaller in size, dark green in color, and tender at touch.
White onion
Large tomatoes
Cilantro
Lemon
Fresh green chilli peppers
Fresh garlic

How do I make Salsa Dip?

Fry four whole tomatoes in a frying pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add the fresh chilli peppers and garlic to the pan, and fry them along with the tomatoes until the tomatoes are soft. You need to make sure that you toast the tomatoes until they become soft and you are able to mash them with the spoon.

Add the chilli peppers and garlic to the pan

3. Once the tomatoes are soft, put all the ingredients in a blender. Add chicken stock powder (Nia brought this from the States), salt, and cilantro.

4. Blend the mixture until it turns into a liquid. This salsa is meant to have a liquid texture, so turn up the blender speed to the max 😀 Luckily, my blender has a “Dip” setting, so we used that. We also used the standard high speed setting to bring the dip to the texture we wanted.

Nia blending away... — Nia blending away…

Et Voila! You’ve got your authentic Mexican Salsa Dip!

How do I make Guacamole Dip?

As I mentioned earlier, the main element in making a good guacamole dip is choosing the right type of avocados. Trust me, I’ve once tried to make guacamole with very hard and dry avocados and the result was not edible! So make sure that you:

Get smaller avocados that are from Mexico or the U.S. only.
Choose the ones that are dark green in color, but not too dark because those are too ripe and will not be OK to use.
Touch them to see if they are tender and soft. Because that’s how they should be.

2. You start off by scooping out the avocado from the peel into a medium size bowl.

Nia scooping out avocados for our guacamole :) — Nia scooping out avocados for our guacamole 🙂

3. In a bowl, you add the avocados to the chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, chopped cilantro, some salt and lemon.

Adding the ingredients for the guacamole dip

4. Bonus Tip:

When mashing the mixture, separate it into two bowls. In one bowl, you can mash it all you want until it turns into a “dip” texture and all the ingredients have been mixed together. You can leave half or less of the ingredients in their solid, whole texture to add them to the mashed mixture. This will give your dip an extra edge as it will have some crunchy pieces that give it a fresh and wholesome texture and taste 😀

Lastly, present your dips in some dip bowls or any other bowls that you might have. We added ready-made sour cream to our third dip bowl 🙂

You can have your dip with sour cream chips, regular corn chips or fresh cucumber and celery sticks for a healthier snack 🙂

I hope that you will try and make this recipe one day, as it was truly tasty and so fresh! I even used the left-over salsa to make a Mexican-style shakshooka the next morning!

A big thank you to my sweet and adorable friend Nia for the recipe and the kitchen work….Hopefully we’ll cook up an authentic Mexican meal one of those days….Stay tuned to the blog for more recipes from our cozy kitchen X

All the ingredients for a cozy night in... — All the ingredients for a cozy night in…

Undefined Declarations’ List: Top 10 Mostly Used Arabic Words

Since I’m a native Arabic speaker, my expat friends regularly ask me about common words and how to say them in Arabic. I must admit that Arabic language and specifically the pronunciation of words can be quite tricky. That’s why I decided to compile a list of some widely used Arabic words and their meaning in English.

I also plan to write a List post every week, so please feel free to suggest ideas for my next post. Whether you’re confused about the way some groups or communities act, why Arab women tend to dress up and wear too much make-up, what do Saudi people have for breakfast…whatever the dilemma you are facing, I will try my best to provide an explanation and help simplify your time spent living in the Middle-East 🙂

If you still haven’t seen my first Top 10 List post, you can have a look at it here and learn some basic facts about the Gulf region.

Moving on to today’s topic, I present to you my list of the Top 10 Mostly Used Arabic Words:

1. Ahlain, Hala Wallah, Ahlan, Sabah El Khair.

The first three words mean: Hi. But they are more used in a Saudi accent in this example 🙂 The last word in the above line means: Good Morning.

2. Keefek?, Keef Halek? The answer: El Hamdellah bkhair.

The words “Keefek” and “Keef Halek” mean: How are you? The answer means: Thankful to God, I’m OK.

3. Baba, Mama.

Baba means: Father, and Mama means: Mother. However, this is also relevant to the community and could change according to where the person comes from. This is how a spoiled Saudi girl calls her parents :p

4. Habibi, Habibti, Hayati.

Arab people in general are very emotional. They like to use the above words when speaking to random strangers even if they don’t know them that well or are despising them at the moment!

Definition: Habibi means my love and is used for a male. While Habibti is used when speaking to a female. The word Hayati means: my life and can be used for both girls and boys. Didn’t I tell you Arabs are highly emotional beings? 🙂

5. Shukran, Afwan.

Shukran means: Thank you. And Afwan means: You’re welcome.

6. Ma El Salamah, Tesbah Ala Khair.

Ma El Salamah means: Good Bye. It also means with good wishes or safe and sound. Tesbah Ala Khair means: Good Night.

7. Forsa Saeedah.

Definition: Nice meeting you.

8. Yallah.

Yallah means: Let’s go. But can be used in a sentence to tell someone: come on, hurry up, or “oh well“.

9. Khalas.

Khalas means: it’s over, all set, or to end a conversation when you don’t want to talk anymore about a specific topic 🙂

10. Inshallah, Mashallah.

Inshallah means: God Willing. It’s the equivalent to saying: Hopefully. And Mashallah means: Praise God. And it’s similar to saying: Touch Wood and so is the verbal way of touching wood in the Muslim world 🙂

Bonus:

I was out for dinner with my dear friend Pinay Flying High when I mentioned to her that I plan on writing this post. She suggested that I include her favorite Arabic word: Shuhada.

Now although Shuhada is an Arabic word, it is pronounced differently depending on the Arab country the person is coming from. But since the Lebanese Arabic dialect is considered one of the easiest ones to learn and master, most non-Arabic speakers pick up that accent and use it in daily conversation.

Being the Saudi Diva, I would have to include the Saudi version of the word “Shuhada” and that is: Drum roll…..Aish Hatha? 🙂

I hope that you found these basic Arabic words useful and that you will try to practice using them the next time you are chatting with an Arab 🙂

Random Post: Where is He?!

In Dubai, I can say that I mostly live the expat life. This means that although I’m Saudi and from this region, my lifestyle is not exactly similar to that of most local or Arab people. Since I’m single and living alone, I get the opportunity to explore the places and do the activities that I choose to do. I spend my free time doing things that I usually plan in advance with my expat friends. Yes, most of my friends are expats from different nationalities and backgrounds. And most importantly, I get to meet new people on a regular basis. I think that one of the great aspects of living in cosmopolitan Dubai is the possibility to meet and network with people from all around the world, to exchange cultural knowledge and to build an ever-expanding network of friends and business contacts.

Now I can’t complain much, because I’ve always enjoyed being independent and free from my parents’ obsessive controlling ways, but these days, I can’t help but feel exhausted, tired and in a way…hopeless!

Maybe it’s the accumulated stress of taking an undergraduate course at a University located at the other end of town from where I live, trying to update the blog whenever I get the chance, and making sure that my Facebook Page stays alive and my followers engaged and entertained.

But lately, I have been feeling an increased sense of loneliness and solitude creeping up on me, I am no longer enjoying my personal space and freedom as much as I used to, the idea of being single and free doesn’t appeal to me that much, and most of all, I’m fed up and tired of all the responsibilities that come with being single in the city!

Actually, it’s not my first time to talk about this subject, you might remember my post on my visit to a legendary spiritual temple in Hong Kong. While there, I even prayed for a husband and specifically made the prayers on the male statue which is believed to save single women! you can read all about that post here.

They say that you’ll meet that special someone when you stop looking and start doing the things that you love most. Well, that’s precisely what I’ve been doing all of my life! I was never actively looking or putting effort into that area of my life. I was always focused on career and education, and am proud to say that I still am. I constantly had other priorities in life, and still do!

So could it be that that’s the main reason that the Universe still didn’t bring that person my way? that maybe I need to start putting more effort into attracting him into my life? do I need to implement or follow some strategies that will bring us closer together? 😀

Here’s a short video from Sex and the City that summarizes what I’m trying to say in this post (note: the early dating part doesn’t exactly apply to my story):

Sex and the city – Charlotte

Of all the elements that being single brings, the one that I mostly despise is having to act as both a lady and a man in one person’s body. By saying this I am talking about the endless responsibilities that come with living alone and having to do everything by yourself. Therefore, if you are ‘the one’ and you happen to be reading this, I would highly suggest that you are prepared for the following responsibilities:

All technical and computer related issues.
Handling the payment of utility and services bills.
All legal matters (anything that requires preparing important documents and submitting them to official entities. Example: Visa application process).
All rent related issues. These could range from looking for an apartment, to viewing it, to negotiating a contract, to signing the agreement and everything in between.
Setting up stuff, assembling furniture, connecting electronic devices. (and of course maintenance and fixing when anything goes wrong).
All travel bookings, hotel reservations and other travel related arrangements.
Help in grocery shopping and general stuff around the house.

Now that I’ve got that sorted out, I would like to ask you ladies (single, engaged, married): What are your views on being single and emotional stability and security? Do you think that it’s possible to be single and living alone and still feel emotionally stable? how do you cope with loneliness in the city? who do you turn to for moral support? how significant is sharing your life with a partner is to you? at what stage of your life did you feel at your most happy and secure?

And finally, in searching for or finding that special someone, what did you find has worked most for you?

I conclude this post with the ever popular Rihanna and “Where Have You Been”:

Where Have You Been- Rihanna

A huge thank you to the highly talented photographer at Pink Pepper Photography for the images used in this post 🙂

Stay tuned to my Facebook Page for more images from that fun photo shoot at Pink Pepper Photography studios!

Random Post: Life in JLT, Dubai

Introduction

Followers of my blog might assume that I live a hassle-free lifestyle and that I’m constantly doing luxurious activities and getting pampered at high end spas or beach clubs. But the truth of the matter is, that there are always two sides to any story. And that’s what this post is all about: The other side of my lavish Dubai lifestyle.

So allow me to use this blog and writing this post as a form of therapy. Since well I need to let it out, and no, telling every person I meet about my noisy neighbors is still not enough relief!

When I first viewed my current studio apartment, I thought it was perfect; it was compact (which meant easy maintenance), it had a balcony with a relaxed view of a lake, it was on a high floor (just like I wanted), it’s within walking distance to the metro station (I don’t drive, so that’s very important for me), and another great selling point to me was this: the building was brand new so no one has stayed in the apartment before me.

There’s one highly significant point that I didn’t notice though, and it makes a great impact especially when you live in a small studio apartment in a building that doesn’t have sound proof walls nor is built using good quality materials. And that point is: the neighbors.

Short History and Facts

When I first moved to the apartment in 2011, there was a Lebanese couple with their toddler staying in the apartment opposite my apartment.
Occasionally, you would hear the kid crying and the mother screaming at the top of her lungs at him. Which lead to more crying by the child.
A year or so ago, the mother had a second baby (girl). So now the crying comes from two kids, and the screaming from one or two parents (depending on who’s around).
Recently, she hired a nanny. But sometimes, she kicks out the kids with the nanny out of the apartment. That’s when they sit in the corridor and the noise or nanny’s singing voice become even more clear.
A previous neighbor of theirs went to their apartment once and asked the lady if she could help her with the little kid. As she felt that “something unusual” was going on in their home.

The amount of negative energy in that house is immense. The only time it’s peaceful and quiet is when they are out or if it’s very late and the kids have gone to sleep! most of the time, I have my radio switched on, but as soon as I turn it off, I would hear the noises of the mother shouting at her kids or the kids crying and screaming.

I do tend to work from cafes on most days of the week, but it’s nice to stay in and relax at your home every once in a while. Well, guess what? I can’t do that now! so I have to keep myself and my schedule fully occupied in order to spend more time outdoors than at my own home!

OK honestly I do that mostly because I also need to be out there all the time since I’m still building my career and my blog and everything. But if I had a proper desk at my place and a quiet atmosphere, then I wouldn’t have to keep looking for new wired cafes to go work at!

I’m not an expert in parenting or motherhood, but isn’t it common sense that when you scream at a child from the top of your lungs in a hysterical tone of voice (and possibly use other forms of abuse), they will only cry harder and continue crying for a longer period of time?

I mean hasn’t she figured that out by now? I think for her own health and sanity, she should try other ways of disciplining her children and making them behave the way she wishes.

So while I am getting ready for my next stress-relieving massage treatment, glamorous dinner, or lazy day at a posh beach club, I would hear the ongoing disturbing noises from my disrespectful and shabby neighbors. Or more recently, the maid’s enchanting melodies of ABC or Twinkle Twinkle Little Star!

What does the future hold?

My rent ends next year in April, and when I told a friend about my noisy neighbors and that I plan to just renew my tenancy for this year, she was shocked and said: “and you will tolerate it all this time?”

Well, let me just say that I have a high tolerance for agitating and irritating situations and people. Since I have dealt with a good number of them my entire life.

I know that I’m looking forward to moving to another building next year. Hopefully to a one-bedroom that will save me any new drama or noisy neighbor surprises. What I’m not looking forward to though is the hassle of moving to another place, with all of my furniture, kitchen appliances and of course, personal belongings. And the cherry on top of it all is this:

I have to do it all by myself.

Final Thoughts

Are some of us destined to a lifetime of suffering? sometimes, it seems that we can’t escape from bad situations or people no matter how hard we try to avoid them or cut them out of our lives. Maybe we tend to attract challenging situations on a regular basis. Which means that we are constantly growing and learning and developing into more mature, wise and compassionate human beings. After all, suffering does make you more humane and tolerant of others.

The next time you see me in a negative or down mood, don’t ask the reason behind it. It will most probably be my mental neighbors 😀