@theuaetimesofficial: Motivational speaker and entrepreneur Nick Santonastasso has revealed how a simple experience at a Dubai beach convinced him to make the UAE his home. The American, who was born with Hanhart syndrome and has one arm and no legs, said the encounter made him feel included and respected. During a visit to a beach, he noticed three separate restroom entrances marked for men, women and People of Determination (POD). Unfamiliar with the abbreviation, he approached a nearby worker to ask which facility he should use. The worker smiled and explained that the POD restroom was intended for him, adding that the UAE uses the term 'People of Determination' rather than labels such as disabled or handicapped. Santonastasso said the response made him feel seen and included in a way he had rarely experienced. He had initially visited Dubai for nine days, but said he had decided by the third day that he wanted to relocate permanently. The experience reinforced his view of Dubai as a city that prioritises accessibility, dignity and inclusion.

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Wednesday 11 November 2026 18:11:00 GMT