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The Relentless Chase: A Friend's Ordeal with a Debt Collection Agency and a Call for Change

  Jane, (not her true name), lived and worked in the vibrant UAE for many years. Like many, she relied on credit facilities for various needs, being the major financial provider of the family in the Philippines.  However, life can take unexpected turns. A job loss when the company closed and some challenges faced by some family members, coupled with her unforeseen health issues, left her in a precarious financial situation, struggling to make ends meet. Years passed, and while she always intended to resolve her debts, circumstances kept her from doing so. Recently, she was contacted by a third-party debt collection agency regarding a very old credit card debt. What followed was not a professional attempt at resolution, but a relentless and deeply distressing experience that I feel compelled to share, hoping it sparks a much-needed handling of debt collection practices and the human cost involved. The Pressure Cooker Tactics The agency's approach was far from empathetic. Despit...
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Finding Peace in my New Space

Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of nowhere, and sometimes in the middle of nowhere, you find yourself.  I do not know who wrote this. I remember watching a movie on chaos -- chaos, then peace. Nowhere in the middle or middle of nowhere, both seem apply to me, but I find peace, and in peace, I find myself. Forty days ago, I moved into my new room. After nearly eight (8) years in my old landlady’s two (2)  flats, it feels strange — like breaking in a new pair of shoes. There’s a mix of excitement and awkwardness, but mostly, it’s about learning to adjust -- again (I thought I am used to it). My young landlord and his wife? Incredibly kind. They check in on tenants and actually listen when we need something. My flatmates are polite and easy to live with. There’s no laundry timetable, no silly fights over washing time. I can wash clothes anytime, day or night — Monday to Sunday. I love that, because it means no smelly pile of clothes waiting for “my turn.” The only catch...

A Race Against Time: UAE's Amnesty Deadline Looms

  As the 31 October 2024 deadline for UAE's amnesty program approaches, a wave of uncertainty washes over the thousands of residency violators who have stepped forward to rectify their status. While the initiative has been a beacon of hope, concerns remain about whether two (2) months is sufficient time for all to comply. Obstacles to Rectification Several significant hurdles have impeded the process for many who wish to stay: Job Market Challenges:  While some companies have offered support, job mismatches and delays have hindered smooth transitions.  Passport Issues: Expired or lost passports require renewal or replacement, a time-consuming process. (Thanks to UAE government -- the minimum passport validity is reduced to one month. Read related article here .) Academic Credentials: Obtaining attested academic transcripts, especially for those who have lost or misplaced them, can be a lengthy and costly endeavor.  Financial Constraints: Many amnesty seekers la...

A Guide to Navigating the Amnesty Process for Visa Violators in Dubai

Understanding the Amnesty Process The UAE amnesty will start on 1 September 2024 and ends on 31 October 2024 (period of 2 months).   Amnesty programs offer a unique opportunity for visa violators in Dubai to regularize their status and avoid legal consequences.  "Everything will be handled at approved typing centres across the UAE, making the process easier and more user-friendly compared to the last amnesty,” said Nissar Thalangara, president of the Indian Association Sharjah (Read more >> ). "Overstayers can approach approved typing centres from September 1 to collect and submit their applications."   No tent this time. It is important for visa violators to come forward, have courage, and transform fear to freedom. As Soledad O'Brien said, I've learned that fear limits you and your vision. It serves as blinders to what may be just a few steps down the road for you. The journey is valuable, but believing in your talents, your abilities, and your self-wo...

Rebuilding Lives: Support for Visa Violators in the UAE

  The UAE government has announced an amnesty program for visa violators that will take effect on 1 September 2024 to 31 October 2024 (two months).   Here are some recommended actions for visa violators to help navigate this process, and s ome suggestions to the government (current residence and country of origin), some private entities, and supporting / dealing with families back home. Before Amnesty: Gather Information : Stay updated on the amnesty terms and conditions, eligibility criteria, and required documents, and potential consequences. Consult Legal Experts : Seek advice from immigration lawyers or legal consultants to understand the process and potential challenges. Prepare Documents : Collect necessary documents such as passport, visa, and any relevant employment or residency papers. Create a Plan : Develop a plan outlining your goals, financial situation, and potential next steps after the amnesty. During Amnesty: Register : Follow the designated procedur...

UAE Amnesty Program, Possible AI Usage and Utilization of Collaborators

  The UAE government has announced an amnesty program for visa violators in August 2024, that will run for two (2) months starting 1 September 2024.  As of this writing, there is no announcement yet as to  specific amnesty program related to AI or artificial intelligence.  However, given the country's history of offering such initiatives, it's advisable to keep an eye on official government channels and news outlets for updates. Per Arabian Business online , "The Authority declared its intention to employ advanced technology and AI to execute the decision and simplify procedures, aligning with the directive to reduce governmental red tape." When a new amnesty program is announced, the UAE government intends to  employ AI to streamline the process and make it more accessible. Here's how AI is likely to be used, according to AI: 1. Online Registration and Verification : Automated platforms : The government may launch online portals where individuals can register t...

Craving Comfort: A Filipina's Night Out, Food Nostalgia, and the Weight of Homesickness

Feeling overwhelmed and burdened, I decided to go for a late night turtle walk nearby with a friend for some fresh air which I badly needed. We ended up at Mayon Restaurant in Deira, Dubai, UAE,  a familiar haven of Filipino comfort foods. The restaurant was filled with the warmth of camaraderie, and my friend's impromptu singing performance added to the lively atmosphere. I sang, too, like nobody was watching, as if I were not out-of-tune. It was good for my lungs. Stress reliever, too.  Our peaceful dining experience was interrupted by a group of networkers eager to share their business opportunities. While I appreciate their enthusiasm, it's disheartening to have a meal disrupted by sales pitches. To find solace, I turned to our foods. I ordered mussels with butter and garlic which is good for my thyroid as a decade ago, I suffered from hypothyroidism. Mussels are rich sources of of selenium, iron and iodine, all nutrients essential for normal thyroid function and hormone p...

UAE's Two-Month Amnesty: A Lifeline for Overstaying Residents and Tourists

  The UAE's recent announcement of a two-month amnesty for visa violators is nothing short of a humanitarian gesture. This initiative, set to commence on 1 September 2024, offers a much-needed lifeline to countless individuals who have found themselves on the wrong side of the law due to unforeseen circumstances. Why Do People Overstay? Understanding the root causes of visa overstay is crucial to addressing the issue effectively. Common reasons include: Financial hardship : Job loss, economic downturns, or unexpected expenses can make it difficult to renew visa or return home. Family emergencies : Critical situations back home might necessitate extended stays. Legal issues : Pending legal matters can prevent individuals from leaving the country. Health concerns : Unforeseen medical conditions can hinder travel plans. Fear of repercussions : Fines, deportation, or legal action can deter individuals from regularizing their status or leaving the country. Language and cultural barrier...