Filipino Expat Calls Abu Dhabi Her Home After Almost Four Decades in UAE

A Filipino expatriate who moved to the UAE in 1987 has built a successful life in Abu Dhabi, progressing from domestic work to establishing her own salon business.

Lita Laguerta Ohanachome’s journey highlights the importance of community support, lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

After nearly four decades in the UAE, Ohanachome remains close to the Emirati families she has served throughout her career.

Many regular customers continue to visit her salon, while their children and grandchildren have also become her clients.

For Ohanachome, Abu Dhabi is more than a workplace. It is her second home, where she has raised her family and developed lasting relationships.

From Domestic Helper to Salon Owner

Ohanachome’s life took a new direction when she began working for an Emirati family who recognised her hairdressing skills and encouraged her to develop them further.

With their support, she established her own salon in Abu Dhabi despite having limited funds to start the business independently.

The opportunity helped her achieve financial independence and build a stable career.

Over time, she developed a loyal customer base, with several Emirati families continuing to support her business across generations.

Her relationships with customers have grown beyond professional connections.

Ohanachome has described feeling like a grandmother to some of the children who have visited her salon since they were young.

The generosity and encouragement she received from local families have played an important role in helping her feel at home in the UAE.

Why She Continues to Live in Abu Dhabi

Although Ohanachome has considered returning to the Philippines, leaving Abu Dhabi has become difficult because of her strong personal connections to the city.

The support she has received from Emirati families has helped her establish a life beyond her professional responsibilities.

These friendships have become an important part of her extended family.

Feeling safe, respected and welcomed has also contributed to her decision to remain in the capital.

Having built both a business and a family in Abu Dhabi, she feels deeply connected to the city and its people.

Abu Dhabi Corniche Holds Special Memories

Outside work, Ohanachome enjoys spending time with her family and visiting popular destinations around the capital.

The Abu Dhabi Corniche holds a special place in her heart because of the memories she has created there.

The waterfront has been a favourite destination for family outings and UAE National Day celebrations, strengthening her connection to the emirate.

She has also helped relatives and friends relocate to the UAE in search of new opportunities, allowing them to experience the possibilities she discovered herself.

A Life Built on Opportunity and Friendship

Ohanachome’s journey from domestic helper to salon owner demonstrates how opportunity, determination and community support can shape an expatriate’s life.

Since arriving in the UAE in 1987, she has built a business, raised a family and developed friendships that have lasted for decades.

Although returning to the Philippines remains a possibility, her strong ties to Abu Dhabi continue to influence her decision to stay.

For Ohanachome, the emirate has become much more than a place to earn a living. It is a home shaped by family, friendship and a lasting sense of belonging.