A Cuban recognizes a Cuban anywhere in the world: A fun encounter at an outlet in Dubai

An unexpected encounter between Cubans at an outlet in Dubai goes viral on TikTok, showcasing how Cuban identity brings compatriots together, even thousands of kilometers away from the island.

Cubans in DubaiPhoto © @wawawa_dkuba / TikTok

“I ran into some Cubans in Dubai,” shared a young islander who encountered fellow countrymen while visiting a shopping mall in the United Arab Emirates. The spontaneous and cheerful moment was shared on social media and has not gone unnoticed by users.

The video was posted on TikTok by the user @wawawa_dkuba and shows the moment when he recognized the Cuban accent of some customers in the Day to Day outlet store in Dubai and decided to approach them to say hello.

“Wow, you’re Cuban!” exclaimed one of the protagonists upon confirming the other's origin, leading to an enthusiastic exchange of greetings and laughter. The short clip has gone viral, reflecting how Cuban identity transcends borders and remains vibrant in every corner of the planet.

Although the names of those involved are unknown, the shared enthusiasm among strangers made it clear that, no matter how far they are from the island, Cubans always find a way to recognize and connect with each other.

The meeting took place at the popular shopping center Day to Day, known for offering affordable products and attracting shoppers from various nationalities.

The video has received hundreds of comments celebrating the spontaneity of the moment and the unmistakable energy of Cubans, even when the distance from the island is as great as that which separates Havana from Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Identity Abroad and Life in Dubai

How do Cubans recognize each other abroad?

Cubans often recognize each other abroad mainly by their accent and way of speaking. Sometimes, a simple exchange of words is enough to identify another compatriot, leading to warm reunions full of laughter and greetings. The Cuban identity transcends borders and remains alive in every corner of the planet.

What is the life of Cubans like in Dubai?

Dubai offers a cosmopolitan and diverse environment, where Cubans experience a blend of cultures, languages, and lifestyles. Despite the cultural and geographical distance from Cuba, Cubans in Dubai find ways to maintain and celebrate their identity, whether through spontaneous gatherings or businesses that reflect their culture, such as the barbershop "Habana".

What challenges do Cubans face when migrating to Dubai?

Cubans emigrating to Dubai face challenges related to adapting to a culturally diverse and economically different environment. Language diversity and the high standard of living are aspects to consider, in addition to the stark contrast between the opulence of Dubai and the conditions in Cuba. However, many Cubans manage to integrate and thrive while keeping their cultural identity alive.

What impact does the Cuban community have in Dubai?

The Cuban community in Dubai contributes to the cultural diversity of the city, enriching its social landscape with its energy and creativity. Businesses like the "Habana" barbershop not only provide services but also promote Cuban culture and become meeting points for Cubans and other nationalities interested in their culture.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.