Dubai Student's Heartfelt Letter Touches Sheikh Hamdan and KHDA

Apr 11, 2026

63 min

Apr 11, 2026 09:31

Why a 10-year-old Dubai student’s letter moved Sheikh Hamdan and KHDA officials

## A Young Student's Gratitude

Shanaya Badlani, a 10-year-old student at Ambassador International Academy in Dubai, recently gained recognition from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, for her heartfelt letter. In her message, written in Arabic, Shanaya expressed her gratitude for the safety and happiness she experiences living in Dubai.

## Learning Arabic

Shanaya credits her ability to express herself in Arabic to the engaging teaching methods at her school. Her teachers use games, stories, and conversations to make learning the language enjoyable. She also utilizes online tools and applications to enhance her skills, which has boosted her confidence in writing and speaking Arabic.

## Recognition from Leadership

The highlight for Shanaya came when she learned that her letter had reached Dubai's leadership. During a virtual meeting with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), officials conveyed Sheikh Hamdan's regards, leaving Shanaya and her family overjoyed. Her principal, James Lynch, praised the letter as a reflection of the school's values of empathy and gratitude.

## Inspired Aspirations

This experience has further inspired Shanaya, who dreams of becoming a doctor. She aims to embody the values of kindness and helpfulness, reflecting the sense of belonging and opportunity she feels in Dubai.

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