Starting with just Dh700, the Bangladeshi expat gradually built a life in Abu Dhabi through years of hard work, determination, and steady progress.
Mohammed Wahid arrived in Abu Dhabi in 2005 with limited savings, a modest salary, and a determination to build a better future for himself and his family. Starting as an electrician earning Dh700 a month, the Bangladeshi expat spent years gaining experience, saving carefully and working towards a life beyond his first job.
Having paid for his own visa, Wahid had to manage his income closely while adjusting to a new country and living far from his family. The early years brought financial pressure, homesickness and the challenge of adapting to a different language, culture and working environment.
Yet he did not view his circumstances as a permanent limitation.
“I never saw it as a sacrifice. I saw it as a starting line,” Wahid told Gulf News.
From Electrician to Entrepreneur
Wahid spent his first decade in Abu Dhabi working for others, gradually building his skills and professional experience. His career progressed from electrician to department in-charge, giving him a stronger understanding of workplace responsibilities, team management and the value of earning people’s trust.
He did not rush into entrepreneurship. Instead, he focused on learning his trade, completing his responsibilities and treating each assignment as an opportunity to improve.
“I did not begin with capital, connections, or a title. I began with a toolbox and a willingness to work,” he recalled.
That experience eventually helped him establish his own events management company, marking a new phase in his professional life.
Managing Financial Pressure and Life Away From Family
Wahid said his early years were particularly difficult because his salary left little room for unnecessary spending. Being separated from his family added to the pressure, while adjusting to a new culture required patience.
He responded by keeping his lifestyle simple, saving what he could and continuing to develop his skills. Working alongside people from different nationalities also helped him build friendships and understand the experiences of others living away from home.
“Those friendships taught me that people everywhere share the same hopes. Every hard day became part of the foundation I stand on now,” he said.
Why Abu Dhabi Became His Second Home
For Wahid, Abu Dhabi offered more than employment. He credits the city with giving him the stability and opportunity to build a career, establish a business, and plan for the future.
“Abu Dhabi gave me what every dreamer needs: safety, stability, and fairness. Here, effort is rewarded. The laws are clear, the city is secure, and the leadership truly believes in building a future for everyone who contributes,” he said.
After spending years in the capital, his connection to the city became personal. It was where he developed professionally, built his business, and established a second home.
“I raised my career here, built my business here, and found a second home here. Abu Dhabi does not just let you dream. It gives you the platform to make the dream real.”
Finding Peace at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of Wahid’s favourite places in Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where he appreciates the architecture and the atmosphere of reflection.
He is particularly drawn to the mosque’s combination of faith, art and learning. Visiting the site allows him to pause and reflect on his life since arriving in the UAE in 2005.
“I particularly appreciate its emphasis on Islamic cultural resources and serving the community. Taking a quiet moment to reflect on my journey and feel thankful for the opportunities I have received makes the place special to me,” he said.
Creating Opportunities for Others
Wahid believes professional success should also create opportunities for people who are still finding their footing. Through his events management company, he supports community and cultural events, creates employment opportunities, and seeks to help young people and fellow workers improve their circumstances.
Having started his own career with limited financial resources, he understands the challenges faced by newcomers who arrive hoping to build a better life. He wants his work to help others access opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to find.
“I believe success means little unless it lifts others. Abu Dhabi gave me a chance, and I want to pass that chance on,” he said.
His Advice to Newcomers in the UAE
Wahid encourages newcomers to focus on steady progress rather than judging their prospects by their first salary. He advises them to develop their professional skills, improve their language abilities, gain practical experience and remain patient as they work towards their goals.
He also stresses the importance of saving early, living within one’s means and respecting the UAE’s culture, values and laws.
“Success here is built step by step. Your first salary is not your final destination. Where you start does not decide where you finish. Be grateful. Abu Dhabi offers real opportunity for anyone willing to work with honesty and heart,” he said.
For Wahid, the path from earning Dh700 a month as an electrician to running his own business was built through years of work, careful decisions, and a willingness to keep learning. His experience reflects the gradual progress that can shape an expat’s life in a new country.
Source: Gulf News
