UAE’s multicultural environment ‘wonderful’ for adopted children

Expatriates praise the country’s inclusive nature and the support they have received from Emiratis for expanding their families.

Gerlinde Krupp, a German expatriate in Dubai, adopted two daughters, Sofiya, 9, and Callie, 7, in 2009 and 2012, from Ethiopia. Courtesy Krupp family

DUBAI // Parents who have adopted say the UAE’s multicultural environment has helped their child adjust.

They praised the support of the local community and the appreciation received from Emiratis.

Ester Benbrook, 38, who adopted a son two years ago, said she had received positive comments from passersby.

“I think Dubai is very open to adoption. The only comments we got were all very positive,” said the Slovakian, who also has biological twins.

“The thing about being in Dubai, a multicultural city, is it makes adoption common and normal.

“I have had comments from ladies enquiring about my son, as he looks different because he is from Ethiopia. Once I tell them he is my son and I have adopted them, they say ‘mashallah’.

“In my home country, where it’s not common to adopt a child from a different race, I get very bizarre comments.”

A M, who has adopted a son, said there wasn’t a stigma around adoption in the UAE.

“I’ve had much nicer conversations and smiles on the streets when I am walking with my son in UAE from Emiratis and expatriates than I’ve had back home.

“Adopting here is absolutely wonderful. Also, because there are so many cultures and nationalities, people here are open to many cultures. The acceptance of adoption is great.

“The adoption network here is strong, supportive and beautiful.”

Gerlinde Krupp, a German expatriate in Dubai, said that there was greater cultural acceptance of adoption in the UAE.

“I get a lot of Emiratis coming and telling me that for what I have done I will go to heaven.”

Ms Krupp adopted two daughters, Sofiya, 9, and Callie, 7, in 2009 and 2012, from Ethiopia.

“It was the best decision I ever made in my life.”

She talked about meeting her children for the first time.

“The first time I saw my elder daughter, Sofiya, was across a six-lane road and I knew she was mine. It was just immediate love,” she said. “When we met Callie, our second daughter, Sofiya wanted to come along to see her sister. We felt like Callie always belonged to us.”