Elmer (34) is skipper of a 40ft boat that takes tourists on cruises around and outside the Dubai Marina.
While Elmer carefully focusses on traversing the cruise company’s boat through the marina, his two assistants care for the tourists’ safety and comfort on board – ready with another glass of champagne, upbeat music on the sound system, some snacks, and big smiles.
They took us on a lovely tour – to see and breathe the sights and sounds of a hot Dubai evening from the coastal waters of the Persian Gulf.
It was fascinating to sit next to Elmer as he was handling the boat – his gaze fixed on the ocean. He knows his stuff – a true seaman. Being from the Philippines that could be expected.
Elmer is meticulous. And proud. He speaks of his home country with a twinkle in his eyes. He says that one day – when the economy at home improves – he will pack up after his years in Dubai, and return to Palawan – where his family lives.
It’s not easy being away from home, he says. But he needs to do this, to send money every month. For 800 Dirhams monthly, he rents a bed in a room with nine other migrant men. Keeping some of his 4000 Dirham salary for food, transport and basics, the rest is sent home. He has two young sisters in the Philippines who rely on his income to finish their schooling.
I mentioned to Elmer what I saw the previous day – standing on a busy street corner in the searing heat. How I felt looking at the queues of construction workers clambering out of a half-built skyscraper and into the buses that take them to their sleeping quarters after a long day at work.
Initially Elmer did not respond to that – remained silent… eyes fixed on the ocean… Then – as his white teeth glinted in the dark – he said: “I am a lucky one, sir!”
Later that evening I was in a taxi driven by Mohammed, from Bangladesh. Mohammed’s face was one big smile. He could not stop smiling… for this was his last year in Dubai! After seven years – he will be returning home – come what may. He does not yet know how he will be making a living – but he will be going home. For good.
Mohammed was feeling very lucky. Luckier than Elmer.
I would be returning home the very next day.
