I see the Phoenix rising and will I see it fall

In Egyptian and Greek mythology a bird called the Phoenix, rises from the ashes of its predecessor and lives for nearly 500 years. At the end of which it burns itself and its nest so another Phoenix is born. The Phoenix represents immortality, rebirth and the Sun.

I see the Phoenix rising out of the arid desert and melting sand-dunes, a riot of iridescent hues and blazing lights. Taking the shape of sky scrappers, lands on water and colorful buildings rising on top of each other. An advert strategically placed says it all: "History Rising", and so the Phoenix continues to rise.

The heartbeat of the old land no longer beats with emotion. The landmarks are torn down. The flame roundabout a distant memory. The clock tower round-about one of the few standing testaments for us old timers. One by one the new has eclipsed the old. The warmth and the hospitality of the locals is replaced by commercial ideas to attract tourists. No longer do we see familiar faces. No longer does it take ten minutes to reach another section of the city. The skyline is marred with mechanical cranes and every corner of the city sees construction.

Sheikh Mohammed's vision of Dubai is commendable, yet at the rate this vision is being brought to fruition is worrisome. It is usually said that what rises this fast, falls just as fast. Already negative news is circulating regarding the endless number of construction projects but at the same time Dubai is being hailed as the fastest growing city of the world. Where there can be steady growth, with a strong infrastructure, there is nothing but expediency. For how long will it remain?

Some of us old timers have decided to move on to other shores or return to our countries of origin. Others are hanging on, trying to find venues to manage the escalation in the standard of living. The new that are pouring in, regard Dubai as a money making market. They arrive in flocks to live in the fantasy land that Dubai is being portrayed as. Most old-timers just shake their heads at the current state of affairs.

Growth is good but like everything else it comes at a price. What price will the city of Dubai pay?

Will I see the Phoenix burn itself in my lifetime?