While many consider retirement a period of calm, rest, and tranquility, Emiratis are finding in this life chapter a new beginning and a launchpad for achievements filled with passion and creativity. They confirm they have gained more time than they ever imagined to realize deferred dreams and projects, perhaps due to work-related stress and commitments. The time has come to execute them during this golden period, proving they are still active and not 'past their prime.'The success stories of these Emiratis are diverse: ranging from a passion for collecting classic cars, which through perseverance and determination transformed into a successful professional venture, to confidently venturing into real estate entrepreneurship. Others chose to document reality and capture the gems of Dubai and the nation through the lens of an experienced journalist, and some even attempted to popularize a lesser-known sport among various segments of society. These narratives highlight that retirement is a true beginning for a new chapter of activity, movement, achievement, and contribution.A 'Mercedes' EnthusiastIt all began with Emirati Muhammad Hassan Al-Tahiri, who retired from the Dubai Police, known for his collection of rare classic cars, especially 'Mercedes,' and his professional expertise in restoring and maintaining them. Today, he owns a distinctive collection of 27 classic cars from this brand, dating from 1956 to 1986.Al-Tahiri consistently pursued his hobby until, after retiring, he decided to turn it into a profession. He confirmed in an interview with 'Al-Ittihad' newspaper that cars are his cherished professional and creative space that brings him happiness, serving as a unique cultural and heritage bridge to connect with the community and inspire others. He added: 'A person without a hobby cannot retire, lest they face a sense of emptiness. As long as one is healthy, giving back does not stop, even after retirement.' He continued: 'Movement is a blessing, and work, diligence, and perseverance are the keys to achievement. Our wise government has never fallen short with us and continues to provide us with great opportunities to invest our talents and experience in various fields.'One of 'Dubai's Eyes'On another front, Muhammad Sultan bin Thani has become a well-known media figure by cementing his long journey, which started in the late 1980s at several Emirati newspapers, followed by over 27 years at the Dubai Lands and Property Department. He has effectively become one of 'Dubai's eyes,' telling the story of the place's living treasures and jewels with voice and image. For this 'unconventional' media work, which successfully captured the public's attention on social media platforms, he received high commendation in recognition of his tireless and spontaneous efforts to document the pulse of life in Dubai and its people's stories.Bin Thani stated: 'I don't see myself as a content creator; I am a conduit for content and the experiences of others, with complete spontaneity and sincerity.'As many view retirement as a stop for quietude, rest, and peace, Emiratis have found in this life chapter a rebirth and a launchpad for a career brimming with passion and creativity. They affirm they now possess a previously unimaginable amount of time to achieve long-postponed dreams and shelved projects, possibly hindered by work pressures and obligations. The time is now to realize them in this opportune moment, demonstrating they are still productive and far from 'expired.'The success stories of these Emirati models are varied: from a passion for classic car collecting that evolved into a successful professional venture, to confidently stepping into real estate entrepreneurship. Others chose to document reality and capture the essence of Dubai and the nation through a seasoned journalist's lens, while some worked to introduce a niche sport to the public. These stories' protagonists emphasize that retirement is, in fact, the genuine start of a new era of activity, movement, achievement, and contribution.
