This week’s Into-yous features British expat Nidhi Mittal.

Tell us a little about yourself
I am a hyperactive mother of two young boys who, along with my close friend Amber, decided to start a children’s play area called Zebra Crossing that contained the ideas (soft play, creative activities, fresh food, personalised birthday parties) we believed kids would enjoy. I have always wanted to have my own business and I feel Dubai is a great city for entrepreneurs to give their ideas a go.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
We moved to Dubai in 2003 from London, as my husband was transferred here with his company.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
No, Dubai is my first expat experience.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
Use sun-block in the summer!

What surprised you most about Dubai?
The cosmopolitan and friendly nature, it is a unique environment.

What area do you live in?
I currently live in Jumeira 1, two minutes from the beach and around the corner from Mercato Mall, and all the shops and cafes on Beach Road. Perfect!

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
At the top of Burj Khalifa.

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Habibi.

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
Khalas.

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
The varied nightlife, from chilling with shisha to buzzing night clubs.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Brazil – my husband promised to take me there 12 years ago, and I am still waiting. I hope he reads this! 😉

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My family back in India.

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Buddha Bar – the food is outstanding, and the ambiance is always electric.

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Five Star chocolate bars.

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Apart from Zebra Crossing, it would have to be The Dubai Mall Promenade by The Dubai Fountain and Souk al Bahar’s restaurants.
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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).