Though Norwegians miss their forests, lakes and fjords, they feel at home in the warm climes of the UAE and appreciate the easy comforts it offers, as Esha Nag finds out.
Aashild Grant, Homemaker, Abu Dhabi
I am still very new to the UAE. We moved to Abu Dhabi only in January 2007. But I like it a lot and want to stay here. I am not very fond of winter and the weather in Abu Dhabi suits me fine. I also like the life in the UAE. It's an easy life and there is so much to do. I do miss my son who lives in Norway. My daughter lives with me and she has also settled down well. When I moved here I wanted to learn Arabic, but I still haven't managed to find time for that. I am involved with a lot of ladies groups. I am part of the committee planning the Norwegian National Day celebrations on May 17, and right now I am busy with the preparations. I am also interested in Oriental carpets. My trip to Dubai three years ago sparked an interest in falcons as well when we were staying in a desert resort. My husband also shares the interest. It has taken me to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital where they train and nurse falcons.
Tor Johannessen, Business Support Manager, Borealis, Middle East and Asia
Abu Dhabi is now the centre of a lot of activities, and it's a good time to be here. The only problem is you never get a taxi! I miss the mountains of Norway, the blue skies and the fresh air. Here, if I want to get a feel like that, I take a walk along the Corniche. In Norway I was used to a different kind of a lifestyle. I could go hiking or skiing, and these physical activities ensured that I was fit. Here I hit the gym almost everyday without fail to keep myself fit, especially since there is so much temptation in the form of a variety of good food. We have good friends, so socialising is not a problem. I have travelled to Jordan and Oman and also within the UAE. It's a very beautiful country and I am enjoying my stay here.
Gunn Johannessen, Housewife, Abu Dhabi
I came to Abu Dhabi in February 2005. I enjoy living here. When the heat in summer gets a little too much for me, I go off to Norway. But otherwise, I love the social life and the easy lifestyle. I have a lot of friends here, and all of them are from Norway. The one thing I miss about Norway is its fresh air, which instantly refreshes me whenever I land in my country. Living here I've come to love Arabic food, especially the Arabic bread, and I intend to learn how to make it before I leave. When we have visitors from Norway, we take them for a drive to the other emirates. I love going to the Emirates Palace Hotel, Lulu Island and the Heritage Village.
Solveig Ramberg, Reiki Master, Abu Dhabi
I love living in Abu Dhabi. I came here two years ago and found this to be a very pleasant place with honest and friendly people. I have always been very curious to learn about the culture of the region. In Saudi Arabia, where I used to live before coming to the UAE, I wore the abaya. So it was easy access to local homes and culture. I had a lot of friends there. Here it is comparatively easier to mix with people and there are not too many restrictions. I am a vegetarian, and my Arab friends have largely influenced my eating habits. My favourite Arabic food is hummus, the sweet rice and the lentil soups.
Erik Aaberg, Managing Director, Jotun Paints
I have been living in the Middle East since 1999. Before moving to Dubai, I lived in Saudi Arabia. It's been exciting as well as challenging to be a part of Dubai's fantastic development. I live with my wife and life is quite hectic here. Soon my daughter, who is a lawyer, will join us in the UAE. Though I miss the natural beauty of the forests, lakes and the fjords of Norway, I do enjoy the warm climate here and love going for a ride on my Harley Davidson. During weekends I try and play golf and go sailing in the sea. I hope to return to Norway one day, but for the time being I am happy here, trying to make the most of the sun, the sea and the delicious Arabic cuisine. My favourite food is the tender lamb curry, hummus and the tabouleh.
Per Helge Pederson, Technical Manager, Mideast Ship Management
For the last eight years Dubai has been our home. I grew up on a small island in north Norway and have been fond of fishing both at sea and on rivers. That's one thing I really miss in Dubai. I also love playing football and golf and try to keep up when I have the time. I like the fact that in Dubai so many people from different backgrounds live in peace. It's easy to live here, and the lifestyle is very hassle free. Also, there are good schools in Dubai. I think we adjusted to life here very fast, in about just half a year. I love to barbeque and my favourite foods are grilled hammour, prawns and salmon.
Espen Ostmoe, VP, Borealis ME & Asia
I have been living in Abu Dhabi for the last five years. It offers excellent living conditions in a safe environment and is also highly tolerant of foreign cultures. It is incredibly exciting to experience such a highly dynamic society, both in the business and public sectors. The visionary leadership and their tremendous capabilities to turn their visions into realities are a perfect recipe for success. Masterplanning has been lagging behind in some areas, but I see things are changing. I wish Abu Dhabi had a better strategy to tackle littering and waste management. What I miss most about Norway is its variety of seasons and obviously family and friends.
