The dictionary definition of a Third Culture Kid (TCK) is “children who were raised in a culture outside of their parents’ culture for a significant part of their development years.” No wonder Dubai is a hub for TCKs.
Dubai TCKers are quite unique in that they had the fortunate opportunity to grow up in a convenience-driven city, with the ability to order pretty much anything for delivery – what kid doesn’t dream of McDonald’s on speed dial?
They’ve grown so used to the city crossing construction boundaries that they don’t even bat an eye at the latest, crazy building proposal (we’re looking at you, Tower Dubai).
So whether you’re a third culture kid who’s spent the majority of their childhood here, or have just hung around long enough to become one of us (chants), then here’s a list that you can probably relate to.
Hanging out on a man-made beach before heading to an indoor skiing slope is totally normal.
Having to pump your own petrol is weird and you don’t like it.
You eat five times more delivery than you should.
Grocery shopping is for newbies. You have yours delivered by a man on a tricycle.
Summer heat does little to phase you.
Speed limits are merely a suggestion.
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You respond to most requests with “Inshallah”.
Supercars are boring. Numberplates? Eh, slightly cooler.
“35 degrees? Ah, it’s cooling down a bit.”
It’s all about TGIT – Thank God It’s Thursday.
Yallah, wallah and inshallah are part of your regular vocab.
School closes when it rains.
