Introduction Of Ali Saeed Alkaabi
In the bustling and diverse landscape of the UAE, where expatriates make up a significant portion of the population, navigating legal challenges can be daunting, especially for those who find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Ali Saeed Alkaabi, a retired government official, has emerged as a beacon of hope for many of these individuals, dedicating his life to serving the expatriate community after retiring at a young age in 2013.
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Alkaabi’s journey into this vital work began with a simple but profound observation: many expatriates, unfamiliar with local laws and procedures, often find themselves in legal trouble without knowing where to turn. “In the UAE, where 90 percent of the population is expat, this can be especially daunting. Instead of approaching the authorities, many turn to typing centres for advice. I urge everyone to contact the relevant authorities—we are here to solve your problems,” Alkaabi emphasizes.
Driven by a strong sense of compassion and a desire to help, Alkaabi started working within various UAE government entities, where he quickly became known for his willingness to guide expatriates through difficult situations. His work spans a wide range of issues, from assisting those who have overstayed their visas to helping others with more severe legal challenges. His approach is grounded in the belief that most issues can be resolved with proper understanding and communication. Ali Saeed Alkaabi
Helping Those in Need
Over the years, Alkaabi has provided invaluable assistance to thousands of expatriates, although he humbly admits that he has lost count of exactly how many people he has helped. Among the many cases he has handled, one stands out in his memory. A Pakistani expatriate had been living in the UAE illegally for over five years, facing fines amounting to hundreds of thousands of dirhams due to overstaying his visa. Despite the daunting nature of the case, Alkaabi prepared the necessary documents and guided the expat through the legal process. With the help of a public prosecutor, the fine was significantly reduced, allowing the expat to pay a minimal amount and continue his life in the UAE. Ali Saeed Alkaabi
During the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the same expat approached Alkaabi for help finding a job so he could support his family back home. Thanks to Alkaabi’s connections and relentless efforts, the expat secured employment, enabling him to manage his expenses until he could return to his home country in 2023. Ali Saeed Alkaabi
Aiding the Most Vulnerable
Alkaabi’s work has particularly benefited laborers, who often suffer the most from illegal residency issues. Many of these workers are brought to the UAE on visit visas by manpower companies that later shut down, leaving them stranded without valid residency. “Many of these workers have been repatriated with the help of the relevant authorities,” Alkaabi explains.
The Covid-19 pandemic further exacerbated the plight of many expatriates. As businesses and companies closed down, some owners fled the country without formally canceling their licenses, leaving employees in a legal limbo. “Employees couldn’t even cancel their visas, leaving them stranded for years,” Alkaabi recalls. His tireless efforts in advising and assisting these stranded workers have been instrumental in resolving their legal challenges and ensuring they can either continue their lives in the UAE or return home.
A Lifelong Commitment
Today, Alkaabi serves as a member of the Youth Council in Hatta, where he continues his invaluable work. His dedication to helping expatriates navigate their legal challenges has not only made him a cherished figure among the expat community but also a symbol of the UAE’s commitment to justice and support for all its residents.
In a country where nearly everyone may, at some point, unknowingly violate laws or commit minor offenses, Alkaabi’s message remains clear: “We are here to solve your problems.” His work stands as a testament to the power of compassion, understanding, and the difference one person can make in the lives of thousands.
