Day One - Long Flights and Warm Welcomes
The journey to selection, approval, and arrival in Abu Dhabi for the Cultural Diplomacy Exchange was one that over the course of many months balanced on the precipice of my being able to attend. Gratefully, the stars aligned in more ways than one, and after packing my bags, I whisked off by bus from Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea to the capital for a direct flight, where I alternated between being glued to the news and occasionally sleeping in shifts.
Although I have spent time in the Middle East in my career, this is my first trip to the United Arab Emirates, and the experience with Globally has already been one for the books. For our first day, after doing some exploration on the premises and working out, I slowly met other delegates from around the world and enjoyed conversation over meals that flowed as smoothly as if we were old friends, rather than meeting for the first time in person.
With the present situation in Ukraine, I understand the privilege it is to be able to attend this event while other young professionals eight hours away are taking up arms to fight for their families, country, and democracy. Engaging in discussion with the other scholars and practitioners from Young Professionals in Foreign Policy on this trip regarding the current events and international security has inspired additional hope in the next generation and our future.
-Julian Gluck
Whenever you’re flying and are blessed with a window seat, always my goal, you cannot help but look at the world below you. See the clouds, the countryside, the light pollution…you cannot help but notice the quilt that we’ve turned our landscape into…the topography.
This is my first time this far east and the most striking element thus far is the topography, the quilt that makes up this region of the world. Of course there is sand, it is a desert. But when I was confronted with the topography of the UAE, it wasn’t only the physical landscape that left an impression on me. From the moment we arrived at the check-in, I couldn’t help but notice who was at the counter. I was confronted with the ethnic topography that we hear about often, that Emirati’s are simultaneously the governing people and the minority in their country. For me, someone who is obsessed with intercultural communication and exchange, the diversity of the staff I’ve come into contact with (haven’t been outside to walk around yet, forgive me I was in transit for a total of 21 hours) has been amazing! I’ve met people from the Krygz Republic, heard various languages being spoken around me, and have seen a plethora of skin tones that suggest that the stories we’ve heard about expats in the UAE is indeed true.
In addition to confirming the cultural topography of the country, quite swiftly I might add, was my birds eye view showing me that what we write off as just desert is in fact mountains, above ground rivers, small communities in the foothills, and so much more intricate than a sand sea. I am ready to be continually blown away by not the opulence, but the spirit of this country. Thanks for coming along on this journey with us as we uncover more about the UAE and the landscape that they’ve cultivated.
-Andreanna Mond
Even though we are only one day into this trip, I now know exactly why Arabian hospitality has an incredible reputation around the world. The UAE Embassy in Washington DC has gone above and beyond to ensure our travel and stay is the best this country has to offer. My journey began with a warm welcome at the 1903 Lounge, Etihad’s Business Class lounge at the Manchester Airport, where I was able to unwind and enjoy their premium food and beverage offerings. Then, I was able to fast-track to my seat in Etihad’s Business Class. The flight itself was exceptional due to the friendly cabin crew, the exceptional selection of inflight entertainment and of course, their delightful à la carte menu.
Once I landed in Abu Dhabi, I was able to enjoy Etihad’s Arrival Lounge at the airport and was provided an Etihad Chauffeur who drove me to our hotel, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi. Emirates Palace is the perfect location to begin our journey because it encompasses everything this country is recognized by—luxury, generosity, and an affinity for their culture. Not only does the Palace showcase Arabian culture through its architecture, but it also allowed us to engage with locals. I was able to meet a local camel rider who brought two of his animals by the beach and let us ride them. He also served us Arabic Qahwa, a traditional coffee, which was exactly what we needed to fight off our jetlag! The first day itself has shown me the generosity, courtesy, and the genuine warmth the Emirati people have for visitors. I am excited to see what else they have in store for us throughout the week!
-Surriya Khan
