What Dubai Police Told Us At @Gitex?

It was a warm day in Dubai, 30 years ago, when I was still in school. My father and I were buying books from Dar Al Hikma Bookshop on Al Dyafah Street. As we browsed through the shelves, we had an unexpected encounter with His Excellency Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, a figure well-known to many in Dubai. My father greeted him, and the two shared a rich cultural discussion about books and publishing—a passion my father carried deeply.

During their conversation, there was one sentence that I will never forget. His Excellency Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan said, "Our aim at Dubai Police is that people feel happy that they met Dubai Police."

That sentence stayed with me all these years, a reminder of how law enforcement in Dubai strives not only for safety but for community connection and goodwill.

Fast forward 30 years, and I found myself at GITEX GLOBAL Largest Tech & Startup Show in the World , one of the world’s largest tech exhibitions. As I approached the entrance, I noticed a Dubai Police officer organizing pedestrian crossings with remarkable attention. The officer signalled for us to wait as cars passed by, and then, when it was our turn to cross, he said, "Thank you for waiting, everyone. Sorry that we kept you waiting."

I initially thought this act of kindness was an Individual act, but as the days of Gitex went on, I realized it was a consistent pattern. Every police officer showed the same politeness and attention to detail, reinforcing the notion that Dubai Police is truly there to serve its community—not just through enforcement but through compassion and respect.

This little act of kindness, carried out so naturally, tells you everything about Dubai, the UAE, and Gitex. It’s a place where you feel safe, empowered, and encouraged to pursue your dreams. Every interaction, no matter how small, adds to the feeling that you are in an environment designed to help you grow and conquer your ambitions.

In that moment at Gitex, I was reminded of Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan's words. Dubai Police’s attention to detail and commitment to fostering a positive experience—whether in a bookstore or at a major global event—remains unwavering. And as I reflect on the connection between these two moments in time, I realize that this ethos is what makes Dubai so special.