This week’s Into-yous features Indian expat Jency Varghese.

Tell us a little about yourself
I have an engineering background and am currently working with Thomas Bell Wright International Consultants as Controls Engineer. I am highly patient, focused and determined to find solutions in whatever I do in the most efficient way be it from finding a good beauty salon around Dubai to developing engineering solutions at office. My career started with selling books to corporates and then being a sales executive. Of course I did this to have some money in my bank account. However, I did not lose focus and I am now happy in what I do and that is being an engineer. I live for the moment and am highly engrossed in what I do. So if you find me giving you my full attention, it is not that I am weird but only because living completely in the moment is my principle.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I was born in Khorfakkan, Sharjah and spend my whole childhood in Dubai. At the age of 18, I went to India for my Bachelor’s degree. I returned back to Dubai when I was 22 to be with my family here.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
I haven’t been an expat anywhere else.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
I was not given any best advice. I tried to figure this out on my own and that is have some money in your bank account, avoid spending what you earn and spend when necessary. If you wish to pamper yourself with something expensive, then go ahead and do so when you really deserve it and not because the whole crowd does it.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
I am surprised by how many friends I have of different nationalities and how amazing it is that Dubai can hold them all together because of the respect it has for different cultures and nationalities.

What area do you live in?
I live in Al Aweer, Dubai which is where I lived from childhood. I consider this as my first home because this area and the home I live in holds good memories.

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
I will only refurbish the home I live. I would be devasted if I had to leave that home. If I had to leave (God forbid) I will consider a villa in Al Warqaa. I like places that are away from the busy city life.

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Khallas…. I love the effect it has and how everything works when I use that word in my sentence.

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
Oh Shucks! This is used to usually give out a bad news or responding to a bad news.

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
The beach close to Burj Al Arab. I went there on Valentine’s day and it was the most beautiful time ever. And also, my best adventure in Dubai would be the tandem skydiving at Skydive Dubai

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Europe: Italy for sure

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My sister Jeny

What is your favorite restaurant in Dubai?
Vanellis for pasta

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
I do miss the herbal shampoos and face mask that I get to buy only from India.

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Beach, Wild wadi, Dubai Mall and the walk between Dubai mall and Souq Al Bahar because these are places I really enjoy.

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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).