Dubai: Nine-year-old Adele Shestovskaya, a Finnish child battling kidney cancer, had one dream: to visit Dubai. She had always admired the city’s towering skyline and sunny beaches through social media. Little did she know that her wish would come true, thanks to the efforts of Dubai’s government under the leadership of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
Sheikh Hamdan’s directives led Dubai’s officials to organize an unforgettable trip for Adele and her family. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, took the lead in organizing the trip. His team worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was covered.
The family’s journey began at Dubai International Airport, where they were warmly greeted by GDRFA officers and Dubai’s travel mascots, ‘Salem’ and ‘Salama.’ These mascots made the immigration process more enjoyable for Adele. At the children’s passport control counter, Adele and her family stamped their own passports, a memorable start to their trip.
The family was then escorted to Jumeirah Beach Residence, where they enjoyed the beauty of Dubai’s beaches. However, their adventure didn’t stop there. Dubai’s authorities had planned a series of unforgettable experiences for Adele. She visited a natural reserve, where she interacted with wildlife, and explored the Museum of the Future, one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. Later, she ventured through the glass tunnels of The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm, surrounded by marine life.
Officials also prioritized Adele’s healthcare needs. They collaborated with Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital to ensure she received the best care during her visit.
Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri expressed his pride in facilitating Adele’s dream. He emphasized that this effort reflects Dubai’s commitment to supporting children with health challenges. The experience involved many partners, including Dubai Airports, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the Museum of the Future.
On their last day in Dubai, Al Marri and his team bid farewell to Adele’s family. Adele’s father, Vitaly Shestovsky, thanked the Dubai team for their hospitality. He mentioned, “We have never experienced such kindness and generosity. This trip has deeply impacted us as a family.”
Adele’s visit to Dubai was a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Though the family had to return to Finland for her treatment, they promised to return to Dubai, a city that made a young girl’s dream come true.
