Why am I like this?

*If you’re from Dubai, or really love Dubai, then you will probably find this post judgemental, if not offensive. Just a warning.

A few nights ago, M and I were chatting about Dubai and I realised that something about the country leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Perhaps Im just too judgemental. I havent ever been there, so perhaps I cant feel the way I do, but somehow I just do. I do know a few people who have visited the country, either for holidays or business and what I feel is largely based upon what they saw as well as things I’ve read and seen in pictures and on TV.

Im not quite sure how to approach this.. ...essentially the lifestyle and culture freaks me out. Whenever I see a picture of Dubai, I see objects that attract attention. Whether its buildings, or cars, or entertainment arenas, they all seem flashy. I believe in modesty. Beauty without the boasting. Yes, many countries in this world show off in some way or the other, with gorgeous architecture, lavish gardens and other flashy what-nots, but somehow Dubai takes it to the extremes? Am I wrong? Perhaps I cant say that only about Dubai. But seriously, man-made islands and the world’s tallest building? Perhaps its the fact that its an islamic country and yet the culture seems so contradictory to Islam? Ok, perhaps those responsible for the developments were not muslim, but the rest of the world sees Dubai as an islamic country. Now a liberal and great commercial hub at that, but still predominantly Muslim.

Then there is my view of muslims here in SA, returning from Dubai and bragging about aspects that isnt quite Islamic, yet seem so enthralled by objects of beauty or science, or even culture that is anything but something to brag about. Yes the science behind creating the islands, were fascinating and innovative, but I cant seperate the science from the intention to create it. If I have to brag about the way they’ve done it, its as if Im saying the project itself was cool, which I dont really, because I dont believe in messing with nature just to be different. You just dont mess with nature on such a massive scale. There are many examples outside of Dubai too, when it comes to messing with nature, and I sure wont brag about the science thereof either. Science will always be amazing, so why rave about it, when the reason for the use is so obvious. The intention is important for me. I wont marvel at something which doesnt have pure intentions. The same goes for anything else. Einstein created the science behind atom bombs and he is pretty bright and I will always think that his discoveries were excellent, but I wont think the same of those who used his science to actually create the bombs. Their hard work had dangerous consequences and what was really the intention?

Basically I see a flashy culture which doesnt sit well with me. Dubai is Dubai and I dont care too much about it. But I realised that I would feel uncomfortable living there, or working there. if thats wrong, its wrong, but I feel that way. M thought it was a bit drastic, and I can understand why. I just never thought I would feel so strongly about it. Il visit the place, no problem, but Im not sure if I would want to contribute to the economy. When I see the West, I see it, and its all fine, since Im not expecting anything specific, but when Im faced with an Islamic country, suddenly I have certain expectations, which I probably shouldnt have. To put it simply, the culture just puts me off and in general any kind of boasting, especially extreme boasting and where loads of money are involved.
Is that not a waste? Is the economy the only thing people think about?

Now you’ve probably got a million counter-arguments, but hey, this is just more about how I feel and my inability to understand it :) I know that so many countries and cities do absolutely crazy out-of-this-world things, so Im equally baffled as you as to why I feel so strong about Dubai.

Whats your thoughts? If you’ve ever been there or know more about the country, please share. You might just sway my thoughts.