Story of Babel and the Impending Property Bubble Burst in Dubai

...And they said, "Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth." (Gen 11:4, NKJV)

Every Christian, I suppose knows the story of the tower of Babel. People never cease to become self-centered. They want to show everyone that they can rule and rely their knowledge and possessions. Most, if not all, including Christians, failed to acknowledge that they are just mere creatures and the Creator is still in control and sovereign.

What happen to Dubai? The last couple of years, we see a tremendous development and progression in terms of infrastructure, both horizontal and vertical. It even aimed at breaking almost all the records in terms of infrastructure. The tallest building. The biggest mall.

Does that make them a power to behold? I do not think so.

Like the story of the tower of Babel, Dubai is trying to make a name for themselves. They are trying to make themselves known the whole face of the earth so that all peoples will say you are such a power to reckon with. But, God would not allow that. He is still the ever powerful and mighty God. He alone deserves our praises and worship and no one else.

In this global crisis, which started in the US, the Europe, and now around the globe greatly affected Dubai. This event just showed how vulnerable Dubai is. The latest disclosure by the head of the Ministry of Finance of Dubai, the Dubai government's debt is equal to 148% to their GDP translating to a $40M debt for each citizen. US debt to GDP ratio is at 57%, while UK is at 40%. You do not need to be a genius to figure out how deeply indebted Dubai is.

The rumor stating that the property bubble in Dubai is about to burst is deafening among the investors and real estate industry. People are speaking in different forecast and estimates, that the ordinary people seemed to become confused of what is the real score. Some will say, everything is still under control, while some say that it is already out of proportion. Like, the babel story, people are confused.

Who knows the future of the real estate industry in Dubai? My apology to those speculators who have invested in Dubai property, but this is the real score. The real estate industry is as dark as the "alcetran."

Lesson: no one knows the future except God, the Creator. Hence, let us all put our trust in Him, and in Him alone.

Early Morning Meet

5:45 AM on November 15, 2008 my mobile phone rang. It was my photo buddy, Jun on the other line telling me that it was so cold at Jahili Park. He was already there while I just got up from bed.

This was our second meeting together with other photography enthusiast in Al Ain. New to the group is Dave and Bro. Ross. I am now so excited to see the group grow in numbers. So, those who read this blog and happens to be in Al Ain, loves photography, or knows somebody who loves photography may PM this author and inquire of our next meet up.

The group decided to organize a seminar on the basics of digital photogaphy. Tentative schedule is on December 6, 2008. Details will be annouced later by Mr. Jun Salcedo. You may also visit his multiply account here.

Nice meeting you guys.

Photography Buddies in Al Ain

On November 1, 2008, finally found some people who shared the same passion with me in photography. I have been looking for these people since I arrived here in Al Ain, and now finally found them.

Here is our group hug during that first meet up at Jahili Park, Al Ain City.



I hope and pray that this will not be the first and last, but the beginning of a series of meet ups for us to share knowledge and techniques in photography. By doing so, we may progress together with our skills in Photography.

If you are from Al Ain City and having the same passion with us you may PM me and I am glad to give you details on our scheduled future meet ups.

Thanks to Brother Jun of Tawam Hospital for spearheading this group. See you in our next meetings.