Emirati’s Simple Question Highlights Dubai’s Community Spirit for 27-Year-Old Resident

In April 2023, 27-year-old Harikrishnan Valloli found himself in a Dubai burger shop, reflecting on his family’s journey from Kerala to the UAE. As he stood in line, he noticed an Emirati man ordering food ahead of him. After a moment of contemplation, he decided to express his gratitude, a decision that would lead to a memorable exchange.

Harikrishnan recalled how his parents arrived in the UAE nearly three decades ago, armed with ambition but little else. Their sacrifices and the opportunities they seized laid the foundation for the life he enjoys today. When the Emirati turned around, Harikrishnan felt compelled to say, “thank you.” This simple gesture initiated a conversation that resonated widely after he shared it on social media.

The Emirati man inquired about Harikrishnan’s well-being, asking, “Are you sleeping peacefully? Is your family safe? Are you all okay?” Harikrishnan confirmed that his family was safe, emphasizing that this was precisely why he wanted to express his gratitude. The man responded with reassurance, stating, “Don’t worry about anything. We all are here for you, always, and no matter what happens, this country will always stand with you.” This exchange served as a poignant reminder of the journey Harikrishnan’s parents undertook in the 1990s.

From Kerala to Dubai

Harikrishnan’s mother, a structural engineer from the Palakkad district of Kerala, has contributed to Dubai’s skyline through her work on significant projects, including the iconic Burj Al Arab. After nearly 25 years with the same company, she continues to excel as a senior structural engineer, having once been ranked among the top engineers in the region. His father has also made a name for himself in the restaurant industry, establishing his own ventures.

Born two years after his parents’ arrival in Dubai, Harikrishnan attended Delhi Private School in Sharjah and later graduated from Manipal University Dubai. Reflecting on his family’s journey, he noted that they came from humble beginnings and never anticipated achieving their current success. He attributes their growth to the opportunities provided by the UAE.

Now a Sales Manager at Springfield Properties, Harikrishnan owns multiple properties and resides in a villa at the age of 27. He emphasizes that Dubai’s greatest gift is not material wealth but a mindset that encourages ambition and growth.

‘Dubai Taught Me Never to Settle’

Harikrishnan believes that the mindset instilled in him by his parents has been crucial to his success. Growing up, he often saw luxury cars and questioned why his family did not own one. His parents consistently reminded him, “You are the investment.” This philosophy has shaped his self-belief, even in challenging circumstances.

He credits his mother with fostering a growth mindset and his father with teaching him financial management. Living in Dubai has further reinforced his belief in aiming high. Harikrishnan stated, “Dubai teaches you that if you have the best platform available, why would you settle for less? We keep pushing each other. We hype each other up. We tell each other we can do bigger things.” This mentality is cultivated through a community of individuals striving for success.

In 2019, he faced skepticism from relatives who doubted his potential due to his academic performance. This criticism became a personal challenge, and he now credits Dubai for helping him transform that confidence into tangible achievements.

Safety That Cannot Be Measured

While opportunities are vital, Harikrishnan emphasizes that the sense of security in the UAE is paramount. He highlighted the swift response to crises as a significant factor that enhances the business environment. “As a businessman, speed matters,” he remarked. “We value speed very highly. That’s one thing this country does exceptionally well. Even during difficult times, things continue moving.”

Beyond infrastructure and economic growth, he appreciates the human aspect of Dubai. After sharing his video online, he received numerous messages from Emiratis and residents expressing gratitude for articulating their sentiments. “The beautiful thing is that we don’t feel like expats,” he stated. “A lot of Emiratis messaged me personally and thanked me for my words. That’s the beauty of this country.”

‘What Alternative Do You Have?’

Having spent his entire life in Dubai, Harikrishnan believes the emirate’s most significant achievement is its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds. He noted that exposure to various cultures enriches daily life and fosters a unique blend of experiences.

For him, the growth of Dubai parallels the growth of its residents. “If the country grows, I grow. That is the beauty of it,” he remarked. The conversation he had at the burger shop, amidst regional conflicts, encapsulates what makes Dubai special for him. The Emirati man did not discuss business or success; instead, he asked, “Are you sleeping peacefully?” This question reflects the essence of community and support that defines life in Dubai.

Source: www.emirates247.com

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Published on 2026-06-13 07:58:00 • By the Editorial Desk