Staying loyal: Residents say they remain in the UAE because the country supports them through tough times.
Resilient in the Emirates: For many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE, crises have reinforced their choice to stay. From the Covid-19 pandemic to recent geopolitical tensions, residents highlight the country’s stable governance, reliable services, and strong communities as key factors that have helped them navigate challenges while continuing to build their lives. Across professions and years of residence, a shared sentiment emerges: in tough times, the UAE has provided stability and safety.
“You are not alone”
For Analiza Villao, president of the Filipino Kasambahay Club, the UAE represents both opportunity and security. She notes that during difficult periods, the country has offered protection and reassurance, helping residents like her feel safe even amid uncertainty.
“You are not alone”
For Analiza Villao, president of the Filipino Kasambahay Club, the UAE represents both opportunity and security. She notes that during difficult periods, the country has offered protection and reassurance, helping residents like her feel safe even amid uncertainty.
Stable systems
Bea Avila, a senior facilities coordinator, highlighted how the UAE’s well-organised systems help residents navigate challenges with confidence.
She noted that the country’s efficient services, clear processes, and strong sense of security make even difficult situations easier to manage.
“UAE is not just where I live, it’s where I feel grounded, supported, and empowered to create the life I envision,” Avila said.
Trust and discipline
Eunice Atencio, a senior crewing supervisor with 28 years in the UAE, emphasized how the country’s consistent rules and regulations have maintained order and stability.
She explained that this discipline, combined with equal treatment for all nationalities, fosters a sense of security among residents, even in challenging times.
Trust and discipline
Eunice Atencio, a senior crewing supervisor with 28 years in the UAE, emphasized how the country’s consistent rules and regulations have maintained order and stability.
She explained that this discipline, combined with equal treatment for all nationalities, fosters a sense of security among residents, even in challenging times.
Calm amid tensions
Rowena Sevilleno-Marbella, a senior estimator, says the UAE government’s proactive approach to safety plays a major role in fostering trust.
She points to public alerts, continuity of essential services, and visible protective measures as ways the country maintains calm despite regional tensions.
“I trust the UAE government and see their efforts not just in defending the skies but in maintaining normalcy. Even amid uncertainty, we continue with our daily life and work,” Marbella shared.
She also recalled the UAE’s strong pandemic response, including vaccination campaigns and healthcare support, while noting that the Filipino community, particularly the Church, has helped her stay resilient.
Sense of belonging
J Rom Dela Cruz, a procurement manager who has spent 12 years in the UAE, says both the government and community have been crucial in challenging times.
He highlights that the UAE provides consistent support, while the Filipino community acts as his “emotional backbone,” offering connection and reassurance.
Sense of belonging
J Rom Dela Cruz, a procurement manager who has spent 12 years in the UAE, says both the government and community have been crucial in challenging times.
He highlights that the UAE provides consistent support, while the Filipino community acts as his “emotional backbone,” offering connection and reassurance.
“Over time, the UAE became home because of the community I built here, friends who became family, a supportive work environment, and a culture of respect that makes everyday life comfortable,” Dela Cruz shared.
He added, “Being granted the UAE Golden Visa was an honour, but more importantly, it reminded me that genuine service and compassion can create a real impact.”
Through volunteer groups and everyday acts of kindness, Dela Cruz said that challenges have been easier to manage, making life abroad feel less isolating.
