This week’s Into-yous features Indian expat Arun Bablani.

Tell us a little about yourself
I am an outgoing person with a true zest for life. I have been in the advertising, media & events industry for over 8 years. I love to travel and meet new people. Recently, I have been investing time in learning new talent forms including photography and golf.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I was born in India and brought down to Dubai after a few days. I finished my education here and have been working for 8 years now. My family has been in the Middle east for over 40 years now and moved here as my grandfather took up a job in Bahrain initially.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
Just Dubai.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
best advice to give – – Learn to battle the heat or move!

What surprised you most about Dubai?
The pace at which it is growing.

What area do you live in?
Zabeel Road

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
The Burj Khalifa I guess!

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Yaaaaaniiii – “As in….you know what I mean”
Wallah Habibi – “I swear my dear/love”

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
Besora’a – “Hurry up”

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
Being able to witness the opening of:
1. Burj Al Arab
2. Burj Khalifa
3. Palm Island
4. Atlantis Hotel
5. The World Islands
6. Ski Dubai
7. Dubai Mall
The list is never ending! They have put Dubai on the map! Big Time!

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Bangkok – for the New Year’s Eve

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My Brother. He live’s in Canada.

What is your favorite restaurant in Dubai?
Zuma, the Japanese restaurant near Sheikh Zayed Road, DIFC.

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
I guess the organic food, but back home you just call it food!

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Burj Khalifa, Heritage Village and Burj Al Arab

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The team at Expat Echo Dubai would like to feature you in our Into-yous section

Please complete our 5 minute interview and submit your answers along with a profile picture (in JPEG format).