29/05/2025
Hi Admin, I hope you don’t mind me sharing my story here. I’ve been following this page for a while, and it’s become a safe haven for me to express myself and connect with fellow OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers). Today, I felt the need to write because not all of us are living the celebrated success stories we often hear about.
I moved to Dubai three years ago with big dreams and a strong determination to uplift my family’s life. Like many others, I envisioned earning well, saving, and eventually building a future back home. But reality had its own plans, and my experience has been a mix of challenges, lessons, and small victories.
The job I landed as a sales assistant isn’t exactly what I imagined. The salary stretches thin to cover rent for a shared bedspace, daily expenses, and the remittances I send home to my family. Saving has been difficult, but I remind myself why I’m here and the purpose behind my sacrifices. The work itself has its ups and downs. Long shifts, demanding tasks, and meeting expectations aren’t easy, but they’ve made me stronger and more adaptable.
Living in a foreign country far from family brings its emotional challenges too. Weekends can feel a bit lonely, and while I have friends here, it’s not the same as being with loved ones. Sometimes, I scroll through social media and compare myself to others who seem to be thriving, but I’m learning to focus on my own progress rather than someone else’s highlight reel.
It’s even harder when family back home assumes life here is easy and glamorous. They don’t see the struggles, the tears, or the moments when I question why I’m here at all.
What keeps me going is the thought of my family’s future. They may not see the exhaustion or the quiet moments of doubt, but I know they appreciate what I do for them.
Despite everything, I hold on to hope. I celebrate small wins, like a productive day at work, a friendly conversation, or completing another month with my goals in mind. These little victories remind me that every step forward, no matter how small, brings me closer to what I’m working for.
To my fellow OFWs in Dubai, I want you to know you’re not alone. Many of us are navigating this challenging path together. And to those considering working abroad, I hope this story gives you a more realistic but hopeful perspective. Life here requires resilience and sacrifices, but it also teaches us to endure, to persevere, and to hold on to the promise of brighter days ahead.
Thank you for letting me share, Admin. Writing this has lightened my heart a little. To anyone reading who resonates with my story, may we continue finding strength and inspiration in each other.
Sincerely,
An OFW in Dubai