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For kids, family time is prime time

Ion
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For kids, family time is prime time

This happened 2 years ago…

You know those hand-clapping games – Pattycake, Rock Paper Scissors, or Nanay Tatay? We were playing these games the other night and it really got ‘out of hand.’ 😛 The games got ‘competitive!’ Aya was at the height of cheers, jumping here and there when she suddenly exclaimed in Tagalog, these exact words…

“Woohoo! Ang saya-saya ako sa buhay nato! Wohooo. Thank you, Ama! Ang saya-saya sa pamilya ako!”

Repeatedly… while giving us tight hugs. (Sorry, she’s still learning to speak Tagalog better.)

My wife and I were in awe, overjoyed to hear those words from a child.

Over the years, we’re happy to see that she finds utmost joy in family time and conversations, and not on material things. When Saturday is about to end, she’s less happy because it’s gonna be work week again. She’ll start counting down for the next weekend. When I reach home a few minutes late, she’ll ask why I was late – is it traffic or too much work. She starts the conversation by asking sensible questions like, “How’s office?”, “How’s your boss?”, “Did you finish your baon, daddy?” etc. Then she’ll tell her stories of the day.

So back on that night, when I thought she’s calmed down, Aya added, “You know daddy, family bonding is much better than playing outside.”Our hearts melt.

What Proverbs 22:6 is LEGIT…

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

And one of the ways we “train” Aya is modeling. She sees how we are very conversational, she’s becoming good at conversations too. She sees how we love writing sweet nothings on post-its, she does it too. She sees how wacky and fun-loving her parents are, and yes she’s becoming even better at that.

It’s how you show things. For her, family time is prime.

The one thing that tops all marriage counseling

Ion
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The one thing that tops all marriage counseling

I MET MY WIFE ONLINE

I was in Dubai. She was in the Philippines. Yahoo Messenger pa noon. It all started with her asking about job opportunities here. Ako naman, ibang “opportunity” ang nasa isip ko 😛 Sabi ko, “maganda sya, kwela… pwede!” Kahit ang tawag nya sa ‘kin noon, “KUYA!”

Wala pang mobile data noon so we chat when she’s free at work. They don’t have internet at home so she would go to computer shops on weekends so we could chat. I would also use all of one 25-dirham prepaid card in a 40-minute call for her. In short, we talked A LOT. 

After 2 months of EVERY DAY chat, naging kami. LDR. Not too long after, she decided to go here – not for me but to find work. Finally, after 4 months we met in person. (This was our first photo in MOE.)

Unlike today, unmarried couples living together in Dubai back then was punishable by law. Sitting together in public buses was not even allowed unless you “show a ring on your finger.” So after just 6 months, we decided to get married in the Consulate just to avoid getting into riskier situations.  

Everything went so well for us during the first four years when we don’t have kids yet. The following years though brought us to a rollercoaster ride. Many times we thought we’re doing fine, until some days felt like we’re hitting rock bottom. At some point, we questioned if we really invested enough time to know each other.

It was the time when we started recognizing God’s presence in our marriage that we’re able to address our conflicts one by one. It was when we decided to submit our worries and fears and let Him take control. It was the obedience and repentance that brought us back completely.  In fact, the last three years until today have given us the best days of our lives, even though we do not deserve it. Our God is indeed a God of second chances. Had we listened to the world, I wouldn’t be telling you this story today.

There’s no special occasion today by the way. I’m sharing this because I just remembered that it’s been a year na pala since our last fight – POSIBLE PALA YUN!

Some people make issues about the length of time people spend together before getting married. I remember someone asked me if I’m sure enough about marrying Raqz. Maikling panahon pa lang daw kasi kaming magkakilala. 

Time matters, of course.  But usually, a short period engagement only becomes an issue when other people try to get their assumptions into you. They often equate relationship value to the number of years. Nothing wrong with that, but it is not always the case. Some couples spend “long years, but not longer days.” What do I mean? There are people who broke up after so many years, while there are some who could tell themselves they found the right one, even after only spending months or weeks together.

Different timeframes

Iba-iba tayo ng timeframe eh. 

For me and Raqz, there is only ONE THING that transcends any of the so-called formulas, standards, or assumptions – God’s unconditional love. 

So when the world tells us we’re lacking years, God will fulfill it in the coming years – and it starts at the moment you completely entrust your marriage to God. 

–

Maybe some of you are wondering until now why you can’t work things out kahit “ginawa nyo na ang lahat.” Maybe, my friend, you don’t have to do everything. You may just have to let God do the things. 

Where can you bike in Dubai

Ion
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Where can you bike in Dubai

Dubai is an amazing city for cycling. In fact, it has over 250 kilometers of dedicated cycling paths today and is continuously building more tracks in fulfillment of its vision to promote cycling as one of the great ways to stay fit and healthy.

Whether you are a hardcore cycling enthusiast or a hobbyist who just wants to ride for fun and leisure, Dubai gives you a lot of choices based on your mood – all with the right infrastructure for cycling with a bonus of stunning views of the city skyline, the marina, or the desert.

So where are the cycling tracks in Dubai?

Al Qudra

Arguably the most popular cycling track in the desert, this 2-part cycling track is more than 80 kilometers in length. The first part ends at the 18th-kilometer mark, and the next one links right after. The second track offers breathtaking views of sand dunes.

Location map (to car park)
Rental available: Yes
Amenities: Toilets, bike shop, cafe, supermarket, food trucks (Last Exit)
Lit at night: No

Nad Al Sheba / Meydan

One of the most popular cycling destinations in the emirate, this former camel racing track has three loops of 4, 6, or 8 kilometers.

It also has a dedicated 850-meter course for children with street signs, bumps, and roundabouts to teach young riders about road safety.

Location map
Amenities: Lockers, changing rooms, showers
Lit at night: Yes

District One

This cycling track has 8 kilometers of scenic tracks by tree-lined avenues looping around the community.

Location map
Lit at night: Yes

DXBike

The track offers a magnificent view of the Burj Khalifa and the Business Bay skyline. It has access to Nad Al Sheba main cycling track.

Location map | Facebook | Website
Lit at night: Yes

Mushrif Park

Mushrif Park is one of the oldest parks in the UAE located on Khawaneej Road right next to Mirdif. Before, cyclists have to enter the park (and pay an entrance fee) to use the track. Now, the 5-kilometer track starts outside the park and is free to use.

Location map
Opening hours: 6am to 9pm daily (as long as the park gates are open)
Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Canal Cycling Track

The Dubai Canal is one of the best waterfront cycling tracks in the city. It starts at Marasi Drive and runs through Sheikh Zayed Road across Safa Park and ends at Jumeirah.

You can only cycle on the designated bike lanes and STRICTLY NOT on the walking path by the waters. However, you can bring your bike up the Tolerance Bridge to cross to the other side.

Location Map | Instagram
Lit at night: Yes

Hatta Mountain Bike Trail

Hatta Trail Centre is the first MTB Centre in the Middle East. It is home to multiple cross country routes of various grades that cater to all levels of ability from beginners through to experienced riders.

According to its website, the Hatta Trails are free to ride and are open all year round. Hatta Municipality provides ample parking and guest facilities.

Dubai Autodrome

As of 17th September 2020, TrainDubai – Dubai Autodrome’s weekly cycling night is “on hold” as per @dubaiautodrome’s reply to my question on Instagram. But they are hoping to restart soon, the reply added.

Casual & Leisure Cycling

The Palm, Jumeirah

The cycling path is what’s outlining the outer crescents. Cyclists will love the sea breeze with a view of Burj Al Arab in the 11.6-kilometer long track.

Location map (Atlantis)
Lit at night: Yes

Quranic Park Cycling Track

The Quranic Park is located in Al Khawaneej, near Mushrif Park and Last Exit Khawaneej. The 2.5-kilometer cycling (and jogging) track outlines the park also features some free to use gym equipment.

Location map
Lit at night: Yes

Khawaneej – Mirdif Cycling Track

This track is right next to Quranic Park. According to RTA, this track covers 32 kilometers across Mushrif, Mirdif and Al Khawaneej areas.

Mamzar Beach Cycling Track

An approximately 2.5-kilometer cycling path outside the park, across the calm Mamzar beach.

Location map
Lit at night: Yes

Marasi Boardwalk Cycling Path

This is the side of Dubai Canal where bicycles are allowed. It also offers a picturesque view of Business Bay skyline across the canal.

Location map (car parking)
Lit at night: Yes

Jaddaf Walk 2 Cycling Path

An approximately 5-kilometer walk and cycling path by the creek, in between Business Bay and Dubai Creek Harbor, this is one of the best spots to view the stunning Dubai skyline.

Location Map
Rental available: No
Amenities: None
Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Wharf / Jaddaf Waterfront Cycling Path

Dubai Wharf is another luxury waterfront community situated along Dubai Creek, next to Palazzo Versace in Jaddaf. It has about approximately 4 kilometers of curvy cycling and running path.

Location map
Rental available: No
Amenities: Elevators that fit bikes
Lit at night: Yes

Daria Island Cycling Path

This is just a short 2-3 kilometer cycling path crossing Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Bay Island – where Bulgari Hotel is – ideal for city leisure biking.

Location map (beach parking)
Rental available: No
Amenities: None
Lit at night: Yes

The Pointe Cycling Path

Located 5 kilometers out to sea, this 1.5-kilometer strip of fine dining restaurants and entertainment spot opens its Atlantis-facing promenade to cycling enthusiasts and joggers alike.

Location map
Rental available: No
Amenities: F&B fine dining, retail
Lit at night: Yes

Warqa

This park has a dedicated 3.5 cycling (and jogging) track.

Location map
Opening hours: 6am – 11pm
Lit at night: Yes

Burj Park Cycling Path

Location map
Rental available: Yes (within Downtown area)
Amenities: Shops at Downtown & Dubai Mall
Lit at night: Yes

Bluewaters Island Cycling Path

Location map
Rental available: Yes (Careem at Dubai Marina)
Amenities: Mall, F&B, Retail
Lit at night: Yes

Jumeirah Open Beach Cycling Track

A 14-kilometer cycling and jogging track starting from Dubai Sailing Club to Umm Suqeim, adjacent to one of Dubai’s most popular and oldest beach.

Location map
Rental available: Yes (Careem at Jumeirah)
Amenities: Toilets, showers, changing rooms, refreshments
Lit at night: Yes

Al Nahda Pond Park

A small community park in Al Nahda 1 ideal for family biking.

Rental available: No
Amenities: Mini grocery
Lit at night: Yes

Al Barsha Pond Park

A park with a 1.5 kilometer cycling track ideal for families with small kids

Amenities: Park store
Opening hours: 8:00am to 10:00pm every day
Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Marina Walk

Rental available: Yes (Careem)
Amenities: F&B, Retail
Lit at night: Yes

Sustainable City

‘The happiest community’ in the GCC provides a variety of sports facilities including cycling and jogging tracks, a gym with green equipment, and half-olympic sized swimming pool.

Lit at night: Yes

Public roads with biking lanes in Dubai

  • Bur Dubai
  • Business Bay
  • Jumeirah Beach Road
  • Karama
  • Mirdif
  • Rigga

Things we can learn from moving houses in Dubai

Ion
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Things we can learn from moving houses in Dubai

This was my first ‘space’ in Dubai. It was a part of one room I shared with my parents in Jaffiliya, Satwa. They stayed in one partition, I stayed on the other. This was how ‘Life in Dubai’ was introduced to me. Sabi ko, hala 2 years lang talaga ako dito.

We moved 8 times in 14 years.

  • 2006 – Jafilliya
  • 2007 – Jumeirah 2
  • 2008 – Abu Shagara, Sharjah
  • 2011 – King Faisal, Sharjah
  • 2016 – Muhaisnah 4 – Al Wasl
  • 2018 – Muhaisnah 4 – Wasl Oasis
  • 2020 – Muhaisnah 4 – St. Mary’s
  • 2021 – Dubai South

After 3 months in Jaffiliya, we moved to a 5-room “villa” in Jumeirah in 2007 because the old room is too small for the 3 of us. But my dad’s idea is to rent out the other 4 rooms. After a year, we moved to a 1-bedroom flat in Sharjah because, well, Sharjah’s rent is much lower. The trade-off is, I had to endure the worst traffic situation in the UAE.

Then we moved to a bigger 1-bedroom flat in a new building in the same area. My parents eventually moved to their own space, as I got married and had my own family. We stayed for good 5 years until our daughter had to go to school.

For most of the years of our stay in Sharjah, I was working in Jebel Ali. So I had to endure hours of long commute morning and night. We enrolled her in UIPS, so we moved to a nearby community in Muhaisnah 4 renting a 2-bedroom flat. We used the other room to stock the materials for our business.

After 2 years, we moved 300 meters away to 1-bedroom to save on rent. Then our daughter transferred to St. Mary’s. So we decided to move again to somewhere near the school – so we won’t have to drive dropping her off in the morning.

While in St. Mary’s, the pandemic happened. School shifted online. After that, we decided to homeschool her instead. That decision allowed us to look for a place ANYWHERE. My wife and I said this should be our last move na.

It took us 3 months to finally found a place we both agreed we like. It was 63 kilometers from where we were before. This time, we moved not because of the school, but because we want our kids to have a feel of the outdoors in a good community AND it costs much less than all we’ve been paying for rent in the past. Moving, I think this is not just an OFW thing; it’s more of Dubai being DUBAI.

What all these shifting houses taught me

  • We have a lot of things we stock in the house and when we move, we realize we don’t need all of them. Many of them non-essentials we weren’t even using. You never really know how much stuff you keep until you move.
  • Moving home is an emotional event. As they say, “New home, new adventures, new memories.”
  • The packing and unpacking might be tedious but you can look at it as a reset button you have to make to refresh your mind and body.
  • It could be personal, practical, and spiritual. Moving to a better place allows new (better) habits to grow.
  • Moving is gratifying. It allows you to look at what you are thankful for – it could be the new space, the new memories you’re looking forward to make, or maybe the RENEWED HOPE.

Til the next story….

Why we decided to print our best photos every year

Ion
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Why we decided to print our best photos every year

When 2020 happened, most of what people could remember are the moments of gloom. So I decided to do a little something that would preserve the highlights of the year – I thought to pick a few photos from my phone and print them in a photo book.

For someone who takes a ton of pictures every day, it’s a pain to browse through the phone’s gallery every time we want to look at a particular photo. More often than not, we lose track of dates or folders where the photos are saved. Not to mention, most of those daily snaps aren’t as important as the few ones.

That idea was made possible with the help of an app called Instorya – a Dubai-based tech startup. The mobile app allows you to print photos from your camera roll and/or from your Facebook or Instagram accounts into photobooks. Cool!

The glossy photo books come in two sizes, 6-inch or 8-inch in hard or softcover. I chose the 8-inch hardcover.

How much does the photo books cost

Prices start at AED 139 for 41 pages (including the cover). Every additional page costs AED5 for the 6-inch, and AED8 for the 8-inch. Every book can have a maximum of 105 pages.

Delivery takes 5-7 days upon placing the order in the app.

They also offer subscription-based pricing called Instorya series, wherein they will create a photo book for you every month.

You can get extra creative in every page, like what I did here putting all these photos in a grid not just to maximize a page, but to extend the visual story.

This photobook was one of my presents to my wife last Christmas. She was quite sentimental when she received it.

In today’s digital era, when you have photos printed, it preserves the memory even more. Browsing physical photo albums is extremely magical compared to looking at them on the phone. I think photo books bring them to life.

And as for 2020 memories, it’s really amazing that in one way or another we can always pick some photos that will remind us of things we are always thankful for. 

From here on, we decided that every year we will have at least one Instorya photobook.

Because every picture tells a story…

Here are a few pages from our 43-page photobook:

The Quarantine Birthday
The first haircut and the first trip to Hatta
The magical birthday celebration at Thiptara
Christmas photoshoot and the quarantine baking

The app is available on Apple Store and Google Play.

Things to consider before hiring a cleaner in Dubai

BD Partner
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Things to consider before hiring a cleaner in Dubai

Hiring a housekeeper these days is becoming a necessity especially for busy families. It allows you to delegate a lot of household responsibilities in order for us to be more productive in other areas of our daily lives.

But booking the right house cleaner may not be as easy as it might seem. It is important to understand what you want your cleaner to do, and what you expect from a housekeeping service.

Things you need to prepare before hiring a cleaner

Before you hire, you should know and inform your service provider of the following details:

  • Do you want overall or partial cleaning? Which areas to clean?
  • Estimate the sizes of all the areas or rooms.
  • Calculate approximately how much time should be spent on every area.
  • Think about the kind of chemicals you want to use. Cleaning solutions vary especially if you have animals, or if you are allergic to some chemicals.

How to hire a housekeeper?

You can hire from an advert directy, or you can contact a cleaning company. Both of these ways present different advantages and disadvantages.

When you hire an advertised housekeeper yourself, you have a lot of responsibility. You must control the volume, consumption, and purchase of cleaning products yourself. It would be best if you were on good terms with such a person so that you can trust her. On the other hand, if you disagree with an employee, you will have to look for the person again, which takes a lot of time. 

If you were looking for a person to clean your apartment, you should hire him and take responsibility for tax and accounting obligations. It’s not easy if you do not understand anything about this. Lastly, it won’t be easy to independently choose a person you can trust, especially if you are not good at understanding people.

Contacting a cleaning company to send a person to clean your apartment may cost a little more but will add greater convenience. You are ensured that a professional cleaner with good equipment and high-quality chemicals will do the job. Second, you are always guided and governed with a service agreement.

Be clear with what your cleaner needs to do

It doesn’t matter if you hire a person yourself or contact a cleaning agency, define your needs and clearly express them on paper. Take a piece of paper and write down what you want specifically for each of your rooms. For example, “I want the stairs to be vacuumed once a week,” “I want the closet with clothes to be cleaned once a week,” or “I will not mind if the windows are washed once a month,” etc. It will be much easier to get what you want if you clarify it at the very beginning.

Keep in mind that cleaners are human and should be treated with respect. They will reciprocate you for this. 

However, we are all curious human beings (well, many of us). If you leave invoices, any other documents, and confidential information in a conspicuous place, you give a chance to stumble upon this information by your cleaner accidentally. So, put this kind of thing away and lock it.

Develop trust with your housekeeper 

It is advisable that you are at home when the housekeeper is scheduled to clean. It is very often inconvenient for a cleaner to come in without you in the apartment. Safety should be your top priority.

If you hired a specialist through a cleaning company, then a reputable company should provide obligations in such cases, so be sure to check the contract. Duplicate the keys for your cleaner only if necessary. 

Just because it’s not happening in your life right now doesn’t mean it will not happen at all

Ion
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Just because it’s not happening in your life right now doesn’t mean it will not happen at all

I came to Dubai because of my dad’s invitation. I didn’t have any thoughts of working abroad during that time as I was really enjoying my community activities in Manila. But I trust my father, and took that invitation as an opportunity to help in the family finances SHOULD I find a good job. 

But since it’s not in my heart, I didn’t have a plan. I didn’t even make an effort to research what Dubai looks like, its culture and the job opportunities. Sabi ko bahala na, I’ll give it TWO YEARS, then balik na ako Pinas.

In short, wala talaga akong pangarap mag-abroad.

My first three years were full of harrowing experiences at work. Coincidentally, that was the time of recession. 

With fears of not getting any jobs during my 2-month visit visa period, I grabbed the first job offer that came, just nearly two weeks upon arriving in Dubai. It’s a web designer role. Jackpot I thought, but it turned out to be a horrible experience. Culture shock. One day, I found out that my boss locked me in a room in his home office. I called him fuming mad demanding that he open the door. I never returned the next day, not receiving my month’s pay. The rush of getting a job, without doing any background check, backfired on me. 

I found another job not too long after. But 4 months into it, I was accused of stealing my own documents. I was fired.

After that, my uncle who just flew in to the city convinced me to join him and 2 friends to setup a web design business.  It was exciting and overwhelming, but I ended up not having salary for SIX straight months. Not even a single dirham on my wallet. Good thing, my dad was there I have at least food every day. I had to leave that group to find a job.

Fighting for my rights

Luckily, I found one right away (this was the time I got into a relationship and eventually got married). It was a work-from-home setup fo a small web design company.  I had a great experience while working until the salaries started to get delayed for a month, two months, and then THREE MONTHS. Three months. TWICE. I pleaded but it often fell on deaf ears. I sought for advice even up to the point of calling our then POLO-OWWA officials. They discouraged me to bring the case to higher authorities. They said, “Wala tayong magagawa dyan.” I did not take their NO as an answer. So I took the case to the Ministry of Labor by myself. The officer summoned my boss. But my boss did not show up. He instead agreed that we settle the issue off-court. Then he fired me. But he gave my 3 months salary + 3 months gratuity for termination without reason. He knew I would take the legal route if he won’t give my pay entitlements. 

Then I found another job. It was with an online game startup. The salary delays happened again – three months also. Feels like my employer had no plans to pay. And the culture was very toxic. So I took the case again to the Ministry of Labor. The authority summoned my boss and he showed up. I thought I won’t win because they can talk in Arabic and I won’t understand at all. Appartently, the officer was able to convinced my boss to settle the dispute off-court. He paid me the 3 months due salary. Then he fired me, and gave me the gratuity.

Both employers fired me for asking what is due to me. 

Can you imagine how patient I had been with those salary delays? And can you also imagine how heart-pounding it was to go against the owners of the companies to fight for my rights? 

Unemployment

Seven months of unemployment happened next. During this time, from “walang pangarap” natuto akong mangarap. The question, “how do you see yourself 10 years for now,” sank in. I took it personally. 

I did a couple of freelance website projects to keep a cash flow. That was also the time I started blogging – I thought it’s a good idea to write stories about the situations I had to go through. 

I sent my CV to all design job openings out there, not only in Dubai but also in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman. This was the time I almost got duped by a so-called agency who promised to get me a job in exchange for money. 

This was the time when job hunting was at the most difficult because of the recession. It was not very convenient in Dubai then. Buses were few and weren’t efficient. Taxis were hard to find. No Uber, no Careem. There was no Dubai Metro yet.

In addition to a number of blogs, I created a good LinkedIn profile. And rightly so, I started to receive job inquiries from headhunters. 

Emirates Airline found me on LinkedIn and invited me to a series of interviews for an e-Commerce role. I got the offer! AND I injured my toe in celebration – because why not, it’s EMIRATES. But five days before the agreed start date, they called to say it won’t push through because top management says so. Felt really bad about my fate (and my feet).

Those were the years I had to do multiple exits to Kish.

Seven months after the last job, and 3 years since coming to Dubai, I finally found a work that appears pretty decent compared to the previous ones I had. This one offered a better role and a good pay and my first ever residence visa. FIRST RESIDENCE VISA IN 3 YEARS.

Just as I got the visa stamped on my passport. Emirates came calling. It was from another department. With a difficult heart, I had to decline the offer to honor the newly given visa to me.

Nine months after, the same guy from Emirates called me again to check if I can at least grant him a meeting. We had a couple of meetings and I ended taking the offer. (No jumping celebration this time).

After three attempts by Emirates to get me, I found myself working in the airline as a Senior Software Engineer for four good years. Quite a dream job for me to work in an airline company.

I resigned from Emirates because a better opportunity came. A reputable digital agency found my profile (you guessed it right, on LinkedIn). And after just one meeting, they gave me “an offer I can’t resist.”

I worked for the company for over two years only until another global consulting agency came calling (also via LinkedIn). 

The opportunity was great, not only with the compensation but with career growth as well. Fifteen years ago, I dreamed to work for this company and I never have imagined that it will happen. For over 2 years now, I’m enjoying every bit of my work as a Digital Transformation Consultant here.

You may have known me only as a blogger, but not too many of you know what I do for work. So this is my story.

Why am I sharing this? 

I’ve recently met people who are just at the beginning of their career, and yet they seem lost and overwhelmed already. 

In whatever we do, things may seem unfavorable. But recognize that you are always part of a process. Know that there is a thrilling journey ahead of you. You may get frustrated with the type of work you do, or probably with the salary. But I encourage you to just play it well. Focus on things you can control, and leave the rest to God.

After all these years, I realize that all these happened not because of me but because of God’s grace. Truly indeed his plans are better than ours. We just need to put our trust in him.

We all have different timelines. It’s okay if some people made it earlier than you. It’s okay if you’re taking time. Slow progress is still a progress. 

Just because it’s not happening in your life right now doesn’t mean it will not happen at all.

Top photo from pexels

What are the responsibilities of a Tax Consultancy Agency in Dubai?

BD Partner
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What are the responsibilities of a Tax Consultancy Agency in Dubai?

Are you tired of the complicated tax return filing? Confused about the VAT calculations! Has taxes been turning into a nightmare for you?

Don’t worry. You are not alone.

Calculating tax, filing tax returns, and claiming rebates have been ambiguous tasks for many, including business firms and individuals. That’s what led to the formation of tax consultants in Dubai and every other region in the world. Having their valued guidance and assistance you don’t have to be concerned by the inspection or scrutiny of the Federal Tax Agency (FTA) in Dubai, the authorized organization to monitor and control taxation. 

Accounting firms in Dubai have been playing a vital role in the smooth functioning of business entities in the region. The tax experts and professional agencies will provide all types of support related to tax, including VAT services in Dubai. You can concentrate on developing your business, unbothered about tax returns when you have them with you. 

What are the basic features of a credible Tax Consultancy Agency in Dubai?

You can look for certain traits before selecting the tax consultancy service for your company in Dubai. Don’t overlook these features whilst choosing the agency. For it can turn detrimental for your business firm. 

Experience 

Adequate experience and industry knowledge are essential aspects to look for. The experienced agencies will have expert tax consultants, who will have in-depth knowledge about the subtle factors concerning tax. Being inquisitive, they will be constantly monitoring the amendments and changes in tax rules. By understanding and implementing those whilst calculating the tax and filing the tax return, they will prevent any kind of disciplinary actions or levies from the FTA.  

Identify Frauds

Avoid those stating tall claims, without any firm evidence. We have seen agencies making untrustworthy statements, just to attract clients. Confirm from testimonials or consult the organizations who have been using the help from the said tax agency, if possible, to confirm the proclamations. You must assign your taxation activities only to a committed and reliable tax consultancy agency in Dubai. 

Knowledgeable 

The tax consultancy and the consultants must have a fair idea about your business and the way it works. The knowledge about business activities is crucial for undertaking foolproof calculations, seeking rebates, quoting refunds, and obtaining additional advantages (if any). You can ascertain the agency’s capabilities and the tax consultant’s caliber during the discussion itself. 

Professionalism 

The agency must be professional to the core. Determined to serve the clients reliably, the agency must react to your requirements in an optimistic manner. You can trust your intuition, your gut feeling while discussing with the agency whether it is professional or not.   

Focused

The successful, dependable, tax consultants in Dubai (or any other region) will be focused on the job at hand. Giving adequate attention to even the minor aspect of VAT, income tax, corporate tax, and other duties, they will comprehensively complete the tax formalities. 

What are the responsibilities of a Tax Consultant in Dubai?

A tax consultant or tax consultancy agency is loaded with wide responsibilities. The agencies must be committed enough to comply with all the tasks in time and help you maintain the reputation with the authority, the Federal Tax Agency.

Tax Assistance 

They should assist the clients in filing the tax return. The consultants will prepare the tax papers in accordance with the latest tax laws of the land. And file it on behalf of the client company or individual. A thorough examination of the calculations must be undertaken before submitting the tax return to avoid erroneous submissions.

VAT Services

Calculation of VAT has been a complicated thing for many organizations. How much VAT to be paid, what is the exemption eligibility, and so on are common doubts. The tax agent will know every detail about VAT and he or she will file the VAT on behalf of you.  

Help During Audit

The FTA is authorized to carry out an audit on any firm on short notice or without notice. A tax consultancy agency or agent can represent your entity during such a scenario. The agent will clarify all the queries and questions from the officials. Thus, resolving the issues.  

Submission of Tax Documents to FTA 

At times, the FTA may ask for tax documents, income and expenditure data and other financial information to cross verify the tax returns. During such circumstances, the tax consultant will appear before the officials at the FTA, with the documents on behalf of the company/ individual. As the agency has filed the tax, it is answerable to the authority. 

Hiring a tax consultancy service in Dubai will be helpful for you. Choose the right agency and authorize them to submit tax returns on behalf of you. You can focus on your business to grow it further. Whilst the tax consultant will handle the tax returns perfectly. 

When you’re not confident to speak…

Ion
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When you’re not confident to speak…

Last weekend, my wife did something for the first time. She co-hosted this marriage enrichment fellowship with me – CCF’s Love Lockdown.

When I was asked to host, I “already knew” I would be hosting alone because Raqz will never entertain the thought at all. Rightly so, she rejected it saying, “Ikaw na lang babe! You know it’s not my thing.”

I expected that response. She’s always been the “behind-the-scenes” kind of a person. She doesn’t want to be with me on vlogs or anything to do with speaking or being in front of the camera. She sits art the back when I talk in a crowd.

But I prayed about it. She heard me saying something like this every night, “please give Raqz the reasons that may encourage her to do the hosting with me.” 

Days after deciding she won’t do it, she said, “Babe naisip ko, I need to be with you when you host. Sobrang uncomfortable to for me ha, but I think it is God calling.”

“Thank you Lord,” I said loudly while punching the air in glee.    

For her to step out of her comfort zone has nothing to do with me, or the program, or the people who invited us. She reminded me of our longtime prayer for God to use us in anything that will bring glorify Him. 

It’s all about saying YES to the Lord. It’s about sharing our God-given time, effort, talent or even stories to be used for His purpose. And at the end of the day, it’s not about us, or her comfort zone. It’s about God. 

It’s not easy, but when she looked up, she’s was able to step up.

We praise God because the event went really well and we were able to feel comfortable together, and we enjoyed every part of it. The constant encouragement from our friends and disciplers really helped and we’re thankful for that.

The ray of light

By the way, this photo means a lot to us. 

The sun rays never pass through our window like this. It was the first time we saw these rays from the sky ON THE DOT 5PM when we opened the program. It wasn’t there a minute before we started – and those rays were directed towards us.

We could’ve been bothered by it, but at the end of the program, we shared how we looked at it as God’s way of leading the way for us – one of the reasons also why Raqz felt even more comfortable. 

Bible verse that addresses the lack of confidence to speak

Why I’m sharing this story with you is because we were reminded of this conversation between Moses and God in Exodus:

Moses pleaded with the LORD, “O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now, even though you have spoken to me. I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled.”

Then the LORD asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD?

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Could the sun rays be similar to the burning bush?

Where to get the best treats for kittens?

BD Partner
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Where to get the best treats for kittens?

Kitten treats are perfect rewards for training your adorable furball or introducing them to new experiences during playtime. Sometimes, you want to give the best treats for kittens just because they are so darn cute. However, kitten treats should be given in moderation.

Fortunately, the best treats for kittens are excellent for your cat’s health and growth as they are packed with low calories and healthy protein.  Read on to know a thing or two about your kitten’s treats and where to get them.

Daily Consumption for Kitten Treats

Your feline pets are carnivores, which means they need certain nutrients such as Vitamin B12 and Taurine to be found in animal protein. 

A proper diet with the best treats for kittens can help keep your pet healthy for a long time. As your feline eats throughout the day, a quality, healthy treat is just as essential as the principal meal you give them.  

Thus, cat treats should only make up less than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake. Treats are meant to promote their nutrition and help prevent diseases and health issues and support their overall wellness. You should pick specific treats for specific health benefits you want for your feline, and according to their tastes, preference, and budget.

So, in picking the best treats for kittens, choose a tasty protein-based treat that’s formulated primarily for cats.

What to Look for in Kitten Treats

The best treats for kittens come in three kinds: dry, wet, semi-wet, or semi-moist. Dry treats come in big sizes and plastic packages, so you can control how many treats to give to your pet cats. The packaging also allows you to store the treats over an extended period.

Semi-wet or semi-moist treats are also packed in plastic or cans. These semi-moist treats contain some bits and pieces of edible raw food with water or liquid so your cats can easily eat them.

On the other hand, wet treats are packed in cans to avoid spoiling. Wet cat treats are a little bit expensive than the rest because they usually contain a mix of processed raw meat to satisfy your cat’s taste and improve their health.

You should also take note of what flavor to get for the treats. Most of them come in fish or chicken. Others include a variety of milk, catnip, and even lamb.

Where to Buy Them

The best treats for kittens are available in almost all supermarkets and grocery stores, pet stores, vet clinics, and even online. You can get them online for hassle-free and smooth shopping, or you can visit this page for the best treats for kittens.

Conclusion

Finding the best treats for kittens can now be done easily with just a few clicks.  However, if you are unsure what to give to your little furball, you can visit your pet clinic and ask the Vet for a recommendation.  Giving your kitten some treats will be helpful, especially if you want to train your feline friend at an early stage.  You must give healthy and delicious treats to keep them in the best condition possible.

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