DUBAI // The economic growth of a country and the crucial role that the government plays in that process was the central focus of Sunday’s tour of the emirates.
The journey began bright and early at Dubai’s financial centre in DIFC, where the students were given an insight into how it runs and what makes it so successful.
It was an eye-opener for most of the teenagers, with many eager to rise to the level of excellence required.
This was followed by a presentation at the Prime Minister’s Office, where they were told about the high standards needed to run a modern city.
“We’ve moved from the heritage aspect of national identity to the present with this visit to Dubai,” said Ayesha Al Bakoush, who represents Al Bayt Mitwahid and is the leader of the journey.
“Today the focus has been on the government and business side of things.”
With just over a week to go until the National Day celebrations, the organisers hoped the pupils on the Journey of the Union would be inspired by what they saw.
“We want them to understand that anything is possible if they set their minds to it,” she said.
“Dubai is the perfect example of this ambition and I think the pupils understand that.”
Following the visit to the Prime Minister’s Office they were taken to another symbol of Dubai’s growing global presence – Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport.
“They are going to see first hand how the airport operates and what goes on behind the scenes, to see what makes one of the world’s biggest airports run,” said Ms Al Bakoush.
They were then taken to see a glimpse of the future with a look at how Expo2020 was shaping up.
“The whole day has been amazing for me,” said Sheikha Al Bayraq, 15, from Umm Al Quwain, who wants to be a writer.
“I get a lot of pride seeing these achievements in Dubai and the fact that there is this desire to always strive to be the best.
“It’s really inspiring and it shows what can be done when you have someone who has a vision and by working together you can achieve anything.”
nhanif@thenational.ae
