'Why we love this place!': Dubai government's gesture for Scottish expat stuns netizens online

Amid the ongoing regional tension in the Middle East, the government authorities have been working in all aspects to ensure that the residents are protected and safe. From public appearances to online assurance, ministries and officials have left no stone unturned to ensure that life in the UAE remains normal and consistent, irrespective of the larger geopolitical tensions looming overhead.

In this situation, social media influencers have been doing their bit to support the country with videos refuting rumours that life in the region has been immensely impacted by war. One such influencer, a Scottish influencer, was recently appreciated for his efforts by the Dubai government with a surprise gift hamper. Dylan Ferguson, a real estate agent working and living in Dubai had just returned from a trip abroad to find numerous gifts at home.

He shared that he received merchandise from the authorities for being vocal in his support of the emirate and the UAE. “I've just come back to my apartment and I've received a gift from the Government of Dubai. They've sent me this note along with all of this stuff here," said Ferguson in an Instagram video. The gifts as he showed included a bunch of Dubai merchandise, a hat, a power bank and some Dubai chocolate. He read out the note that arrived with the gifts where the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism shared that the gifts were a token of "our appreciation for your continued advocacy for our city."

"Over the past few days, we hope you've seen the way “Dubai prioritises the safety and well-being of its citizens, residents and visitors, and at the same time maintains world-class service standards. We look forward to continuing to work with you to tell the world real, powerful stories about Dubai and its people," read the note. Ferguson claimed he was speechless and the gift was one of the "most amazing things I've ever seen."

"To know that I'm actually appreciated by the government for showing my support online and showing the true story of “Dubai and its people here is, I can't tell you that feeling," he said. He asked which other place in the world would send a gift to an expat for "making little videos on Instagram" that were showing and sharing the truth. He said people wonder why residents love Dubai "so much" and why the residents are advocates for the city, and it was because of initiatives and acts like these. "Like knowing there's a government that appreciates you being here is amazing. And you get that feeling just living here. You feel like part of the family just when you live here. So yes, something I can't quite explain and it's hard to explain when you don't live here," he explained. “But you know what? We're going to keep supporting. That's why the support keeps coming. So Dubai, keep doing what you're doing and never change,” he added.

Social media reacts to Dubai government's initiative

Numerous netizens recounted online how the UAE government and authorities in the city have always been appreciative of all residents, regardless of whether they are expats. They added how such acts were not about publicity but positivity. "As a healthcare professional, I was randomly awarded a golden visa by the UAE government for coming here to work during the pandemic. They did this quietly. I was blown away. That’s true respect and appreciation and that’s why I’m still here," shared one on Instagram. "Thank you for sharing Dylan! My kids and friends are working in Dubai too and I feel assured that the Dubai government is really taking good care of all of you," wrote a netizen worrying for their friends and family.