This week’s Into-yous features South African expat Sandhya Lalloo-Morar

Tell us a little about yourself:
I’m a designer and stylist. I use to have my own design studio and manufacture my own clothing line in South Africa, I did for almost 10 years. I simultaneously lectured in fashion at the university for 9 years. I recently completed a masters degree in design and graduating with distinction. I enjoy freelancing in different creative fields it keeps me energized.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I moves to Dubai over 2.5 years ago, my husbands company relocated him here.

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

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai:
I wasn’t given any advice .. I just take things as they come

What surprised you most about Dubai?
How quickly areas develop.

What area do you live in?
Dubai Marina .. its very beautiful

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
In those amazing villas on beach road facing the sea.

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far:
Inshallah – god willing .

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai:
yalla

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
being in the desert and watching the sunrise over the soft dunes.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Japan.

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

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Zaroob on Sheik Zayed Road

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Perinaise from Nandos. Its a very tasty chilli and mayo mix.

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Everywhere.