A dream came true for nine-year-old Adele Shestovskaya, a Finnish girl battling kidney cancer, when she was given the chance to visit Dubai—a city she had long wished to see after admiring its beauty on social media.
Her unforgettable journey was made possible by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, directing officials to organize a special experience for Adele and her family.
The family stayed in the vicinity of Jumeirah Beach, where they enjoyed the stunning coastal views. Adele’s adventure continued with visits to Dubai’s most iconic attractions, including a natural reserve, the Museum of the Future, and the glass tunnels of The Lost Chambers Aquarium.
Dubai authorities also ensured Adele’s health was a top priority, arranging medical support through Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital.
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), expressed his pride in fulfilling the Crown Prince’s directive, highlighting Dubai’s commitment to making children’s dreams come true, especially those fighting serious illnesses.
“We are honored by the trust placed in us by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed in creating a memorable experience for this child and her family. This reflects Dubai’s commitment to caring for children battling illnesses,” Al Marri said through WAM.
Adele’s father, Vitaly Shestovskaya, also expressed gratitude to the Crown Prince and Al Marri, for the warmth and generosity they have shown to his family.
“Our visit to Dubai has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We spent an incredible week here, and even now, my children keep saying, ‘We don’t want to leave Dubai.’ However, we must return to Finland to continue Adele’s treatment, but we will definitely come back to this beautiful and welcoming city,” he said.
