When airport immigration officials request passengers to step aside, it generally raises concerns about visa issues for travelers. However, this was not the case for Abdallah Al Balushy at DXB, who engaged in a conversation with a woman in a wheelchair preparing to board her flight home.
This heartwarming incident was shared by Heba Mustafa Saleh, a radio host on Alarabiya 99 in Dubai, and daughter-in-law of the woman involved.
“After she passed through security, an immigration officer named Abdallah Al Balushy, whom I want to commend, stopped her for a chat and then gestured for my husband to come over,” Heba recounted during a radio broadcast.
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Al Balushy inquired about the duration of the woman’s stay in the UAE. Upon learning that she had been in the country for under a month, he questioned, “Why is she leaving us so soon? Did we disturb her in any manner?”
When informed of her departure due to medical appointments, Al Balushy expressed remorse: “I apologize; I approached her because I noticed you saying goodbye and wanted to give you another chance to bid farewell. We would love for her to pray for us and forgive us for any shortcomings. We eagerly await her return.”
This warm interaction captured the attention of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, who shared the video of the radio host recounting the story, stating, “A salute to those who bring happiness or joy to a traveler’s heart. This reflects the Dubai we aspire to.”
Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, frequently acknowledges dedicated employees whose efforts enhance people’s experiences and improve government services in Dubai.
In March, he recognized a customer service staff member at a vehicle inspection center in Dubai’s Al Qusais area. He shared images of the “hardworking young man” known for efficiently handling transactions, which earned him praise from customers for his “cheerful” demeanor and helpful approach.