Written by: Beena Yusuf
A recent global survey by medical company Veolar and Magmatic Research has positioned Abu Dhabi among the top locations worldwide for retiring. Notable retiree Brij Bali arrived in Abu Dhabi from Canada back in 2006, engaging in roles encompassing higher education, charity, and corporate sectors prior to his retirement in 2020.
Brij is not just a common retiree: he is a philanthropist, social innovator, mentor to international startups, and advisor to the Canadian Business Council Abu Dhabi. Further, Brij has strived to augment the senior ecosystem in Abu Dhabi with his social enterprise, International Talent Hub Ltd, catering to senior citizens and residents. We shall now explore why Brij chose Abu Dhabi as his retirement haven.
Retirees often base their decisions on societal factors such as safety, financial security, connectivity, and access to healthcare services. According to Brij, the health system in Abu Dhabi is first-class, and his positive personal experiences with it affirm the quality of the healthcare sector. The emirate also boasts unparalleled safety across all societal segments. He recalls times when he inadvertently failed to lock his front door or car and has yet to experience a break-in, something he couldn’t attest to in other countries he had resided in previously.
Abu Dhabi pays considerable attention to its senior citizens as part of its societal development strategy. Improved healthcare and enhanced productivity have led to a rise in actively involved older citizens eager to partake in various development pursuits. An essential paradigm shift is required to accommodate seniors in valued roles within organizations.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahayan, as the current ruling President of the United Arab Emirates, encourages the growth of entrepreneurial ventures and intergenerational connections with the youth. It is worth noting that Brij was leading the national volunteering program, Takatof of the Emirates Foundation, from 2009-2016, generating millions of volunteering hours across the country, engaging seniors and youth alike. Through this initiative and others, such as the UAE ventures, Brij has been able to make notable contributions to the global and Canadian senior and youth landscape while fostering intergenerational connections.
Offering a wide array of events and activities, Abu Dhabi promotes inclusivity and equitability. Major highlights are the arts and culture, theaters, parks, malls, beaches, and fitness events. These societal contributions enhance the grandeur of the emirate, making it a favorable retirement destination.
Additionally, Abu Dhabi recently expanded its visa options, paving the way for long-term retirement visas. The “golden visa” option also offers entrepreneurs the support they need to bring their social innovation dreams to fruition. These expanded provisions cater to everyone – from young infants to senior citizens – making Abu Dhabi an inclusive family unit.
Senior citizens also have numerous opportunities to participate actively in their communities. Thanks to programs organized by Ma’an (Authority of Social Contribution), the Department of Community Development (DCD), and the Family Development Foundation, there is no shortage of activities and events for retirees. Universities and corporations also host a range of activities tailored to suit this age group.
In conclusion, Brij Bali is not just an embodiment of a successful retiree in Abu Dhabi. He is a trailblazer who is passionately involved in enhancing the seniors’ ecosystem while actively contributing to the community. He is a living testament to the emirate’s inviting culture towards its senior citizens, epitomizing the phrase “Connecting the World, Building Prosperity. Welcome to the Global Crossroads of Opportunity, where innovation knows no borders and success speaks every language.”
For more information on Brij Bali and his ongoing work with the International Talent Hub Ltd, please visit www.intth.com and www.inttsh.com or email bb@intth.com.
