This week’s Into-yous features Scottish expat Denise McGinty.

Tell us a little about yourself
I have been living in Dubai for the past 14 years. I run 3 companies as General Manager, including Housekeeping Co, and enjoy my life here very much. I originally come from Edinburgh, Scotland, and really miss my culture and weather sometimes!!!

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I came here 17 years ago on a holiday, I fell in love with the place, and came back for another few more visits over the years, before finally packing up and coming here full time.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
Los Angeles.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
Actually, I feel that nobody can teach you immediately how to prepare yourself for life here in Dubai… its an amazing journey of understanding, and one I’m still learning.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
Sand Storms!!!!!

What area do you live in?
Palm Jumeirah.

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
I never think like that!

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
La’Illah Ill’allah… there is only One God.

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
“He’s out of station”… meaning he’s away from his desk… or another is “Hello MamSir”.

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
There have been too many to mention… however the most memorable is meeting and marrying my husband.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
With family, travelling to a variety of places… mountain climbing in Nepal.

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
Mum.

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
So many… I love the Rivington Grill and a Mandi restaurant in Bu’haira, Sharjah… and of course, I love steaks at the Madinat… but home cooking is still the best for me!

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Nothing… but it used to be fresh milk, which I no longer drink – you can get everything here now.

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Beach… Beach… Beach… and then of course, cultural tours like visiting Al Farooq Mosque here in Dubai – the most beautiful place and excellent tour, and of course the old souqs in Deira.
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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).