This week’s Into-yous features British expat Shelina Jokhiya

Tell us a little about yourself:
I am the owner of the professional organizing business, Decluttr Me. Since 2013, I have been working within homes and offices, providing focused, calm and practical advice, helping clients to achieve the correct organisation balance and clutter free space for their needs.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here:
I moved here in 2005 and worked in the Legal Department as a lawyer at Emirates.
I just applied, got the job and moved here. I had come here on holiday in 2002 so knew what to expect (sort of) 🙂

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
Kenya for a year when I was 16. But our family realised we were meant to be in the UK.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai:
The friends you meet in the first six months wont be your friends later on (or very few of them will be) and be patient.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
How hot is could get and the politeness and tolerance of locals.

What area do you live in?
JVC. Previously Bur Dubai, Jumeirah and Motor City. I have moved further and further away from the sea over the years.

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
Emirates Hills or Jumeirah

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far:
Shukran

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai:
shoi shoi (slowly slowly).

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
Seeing it grow and fall and grow again. There have been so many experiences that it would be hard to list them all. Starting my own business has been a great experience for me.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Somewhere in South America. The only continent I haven’t visited yet.

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My parents, brother, sister in law and my darling nephews. And my lovely friends.

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Nobu at Atlantis is high up and Le Petit Maison and Bu Qtair

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Sainsburys French Mayonnaise and Whispas. They are sent over when visitors come

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
The beach, Bu Qtair, Bastakiya and if it;s my mum she has to go to Meena Bazaar as soon as she lands.