50 Years in UAE: Indian Expat Leaves Amid Security Fears
After five decades in the UAE, Abidh CK departs for India, citing regional security concerns as a key factor in his decision to leave.
A journey that began with just Dh10 and a borrowed visa has reached its final chapter. Abidh CK, a veteran Indian expatriate, has officially departed the UAE after exactly 50 years of residency, marking the end of a half-century defined by immense personal growth and witness to the nation's rapid transformation.
Originally from Kerala, Abidh arrived in Dubai on November 10, 1976, at the age of 16. His early years were defined by the hustle of the traditional retail sector, starting as a salesman in a Sharjah textile shop earning a monthly salary of Dh700. Since then, he has seen the region evolve from manual commerce to an era driven by artificial intelligence.
From Dh10 to a Community Pillar
Abidh’s life in the Emirates was not just about professional survival, but about building a legacy. He became a significant figure within the Malayali community, establishing the web portal keralauae.com to serve as a resource for fellow expatriates.
His personal milestones were deeply intertwined with the UAE's history:
- Marriage: He married Sahira at the age of 22.
- Family: His two daughters, Buraida and Fahima, were born in the UAE in 1986 and 1988, respectively.
- Legacy: He departs the country accompanied by six grandchildren, carrying a lifetime of memories.
Shifting Regional Landscapes
While Abidh expressed profound gratitude for the opportunities provided by the Emirates, his decision to return to India was heavily influenced by the current geopolitical climate. He cited a fundamental desire for peace and security as the primary driver for his departure.
His exit comes at a time when anxieties regarding regional stability are mounting across the Gulf. Recent tensions have included:
- Missile strikes targeting Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.
- Drone attacks reported near the borders of Oman.
- Ongoing incidents involving Houthi forces impacting civilian and energy infrastructure.
"While I remain thankful for my time in the Emirates, the shifting regional landscape has prompted me to reassess the long-term viability of remaining in the Gulf."
As Indian diplomatic missions navigate increased challenges regarding worker welfare and repatriations amidst these tensions, Abidh’s departure serves as a poignant reflection of the growing concerns felt by some long-term residents regarding the stability of the broader region.