![This picture taken on February 2, 2021 shows a view of the Dubai Creek in Dubai. / AFP / Karim SAHIB](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/RWWYRYZMLEM4LHMCYDDLKXPN2U.jpg?smart=true&auth=8ad313e32013d2627bc6b6818967a37c68b5e2f6453ea7cbf4aac222791c0079&width=400&height=225)
This picture taken on February 2, 2021 shows a view of the Dubai Creek in Dubai. / AFP / Karim SAHIB
This picture taken on February 2, 2021 shows a view of the Dubai Creek in Dubai. / AFP / Karim SAHIB
Why the UAE is still open
Some have resented the relative normality in Dubai in recent months, but its freedoms were hard won