Third culture Dubai

‘Third Culture Kids’ is the name for those who feel they have more than one nationality 1 Comments

1

© ITP Images

View slideshow

• 
• Picture 1 of 2
• 

Leilani Coughlin, 24, Chinese-Filipino/Greek-Scottish

‘My mother is Chinese/Filipino and grew up in the Philippines, and my dad is Greek/Scottish and was raised in the UK, so I’m technically four different nationalities! I moved here in January. One of my best friends from Sri Lanka grew up here so he suggested it. I saw my chance to make a mark in the job world!

‘I guess culturally I’m mostly English, but then I’m also always aware that I’m not completely so. It’s not a bad thing – I guess it’s what makes me who I am. There’s a mix of different cultures and nationalities here. The area I lived in England is not the most ethically-diverse place. I feel quite comfortable here in Dubai because I know I’m among a real variety of different cultures, all mixed together.

‘Although Dubai is very westernised, it’s still enough of a change from the UK for me. But it’s a shame that learning about the UAE culture here isn’t pushed a bit more. I think even the events that are designed to show off the local culture are too touristy.’