I visited Modern Utopia

by Raihane KHOUISSAT (Algeria)

A leap into the unknown United Arab Emirates

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Hello, My name is Rayhan and I am about to recount my travel story to the city of my dreams. Dubai, or as I like to call "Utopian city". When I first got my visa which read "to Dubai - UAE", I could not believe my eyes and had to stare at it for minutes. Two days later, I was heading to Dubai, the world's most desired destinations. The plane landed and the only thing I could think about is let myself live the moment and enjoy the fresh air that is new to my lungs! What first captured my attention was "multinationals" literally invading the streets; there were Indians, Pakistani, British, American, South African, Chinese, Japanese, maybe Koreans, and we Arabs coming from different Arab countries such as Algeria, Tunisia, Morroco, Lebanon, Egypt, and so forth. I was impressed by how diverse the UAE society is embracing all these people of different races, backgrounds, and cultures; yet, everybody seemed to be enjoying their life as if they were home. It was then, that I decided to enjoy the seven days I had to stay there and try to visit as many places as I could. My first destination was Dubai Mall. It was tremendously big and captivating. The shops inside it were nothing like those we have back home. I found all sorts of clothes, shoes, games, food, beverages, and so forth. Though my family members insisted on me taking photos or filming for them, I could not help it but let myself drown into those moments that my eyes were the only camera! Next to it Burj Khalifa appeared, as high as the sky, welcoming me to the utopian city. Of course, I had to take a picture for nobody would believe I have been there. Then, I walked on the streets, tried different foods, and bought many clothes and souvenirs. I cannot tell about you, but what I loved the most about this city was food, specifically "healthy food". I could buy all sorts of fresh fruits, natural juices, fat-free milk, and digestives snacks. The fact that I could be healthy even while traveling just made my whole trip. To me, Dubai is a utopian city! why? Because albeit I enjoyed myself as you could see, I could not feel "lively". There was always something missing out there. I felt like life there was too perfect. It dawned on me how superficial wealthy people could be; living in such luxury as if getting new jewels and brand cars were all they could really invest in. I was not able to foster a desire of coming backing to Dubai. It felt so not me. It was more like a seven-days dream trip that will eventually fade. Honestly, I was a little disappointed but still managed to overlook that and just appreciate every single moment of life. Thank you for reading me.