Friends like these – celebrities share their thoughts on why they love the UAE

It is not only citizens and residents who extol the virtues of the UAE. The country has long been a favoured spot for celebrities who go out of their way to praise the UAE for its tolerance, safety and thrilling features. It is no wonder they keep returning again and again. In the run-up to National Day on Wednesday, we take a look at some of the sentiments A-listers from around the world expressed about the country.

David Beckham at the launch of Adidas store in Dubai Mall

“I always love coming to Dubai - it’s a special place that’s constantly evolving…Spending some time here today, it was great to get a sense of the energy people have for sport. In Dubai, I’ve met people from all around the world who are united in their passion for sport.”

Jessie J at a British Airways event at Zaya Nurai Island

“I love Abu Dhabi and am excited to have been able to perform for the people who have helped me travel around the world with my music safely and comfortably.”

Margot Robbie a British Airways event at Zaya Nurai Island

“I’ve only been in Abu Dhabi for a day or so but it is a place of beautiful contrasts. I visited the desert yesterday and the vast tranquillity of that landscape is the opposite of the cosmopolitan modernity of the city – it is a beautiful place. I really didn’t expect to be enchanted by the UAE as much as I have been.”

Paris Hilton during her trip to Dubai to DJ at Greg Malouf’s Clé Dubai

“The other day I was looking out at the view, seeing all these incredible buildings and thinking ‘I wish I could find a place here. I love it, I think it’s such a cool place to come to. It’s special, it has a great energy, I love the people — there’s so much going on.”

Boxer Amir Khan during his visit with plans to build the Amir Khan Boxing Academy

“I love Dubai and the UAE. I’ve been coming back here since the first time I visited Dubai, back in 2007. The support and love I get from the people of Dubai and Abu Dhabi; the fans are simply amazing. That is why I want to give something back to the communities here and show my appreciation. The great thing about the UAE is its diversity. Anyone who comes here automatically feels at home.”

Tyrese Gibson during the promotion of his album Black Rose

“The UAE fans and the UAE are very important and special to me. Rest in peace to one of my inspirations HH Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan…I’m so blessed to have met so many beautiful souls in the UAE.”

Shah Rukh Khan during the filming of Happy New Year

“Dubai has been wonderful to us, both personally and business-wise...I just love the way the city breathes and you have something for everyone here”

Abhishek Bachchan during the filming of Happy New Year

“The city always feels like home and some of my family has lived in Dubai for 35 years. The warmth and respect they give me, and especially my family, has always been very touching.”

Najwa Karam during her 2015 concert in Dubai

“I have finished my year and started the new year in the UAE. I always love performing here. The people are wonderful and genuine and it is such a peaceful place.”

Mohamed Abdo during his 2015 concert in du Forum Abu Dhabi

“I remember the late, great Sheikh Zayed would always provide encouragement to us artists and was a big supporter of live music. Every month, he would organise one or two concerts for the people. He did this because he wanted to cultivate a sense of appreciation for music and culture very early. You can see the results of that today, in the following generations where there is now a very healthy arts-and-culture scene here in the UAE.”

Akon at Search Festival Mawazine Rythmes du Monde 2015

“Oh man, I love the UAE. I love going back there and will keep going back until they give me a free pad. I am still waiting for one.”

Will Smith in an interview with Beats 1 Radio

“I love Dubai man, they do it so big in the Emirates, just how they are creating and all. I just love that mentality and mind set!”

Nancy Ajram to Arabian Business in 2013

“If I ever choose to have a second home outside of the Beirut it would be in Dubai. I really love Dubai and I love coming here to visit the malls. I’m always looking around for new fashion collections and I feel like Dubai always has the latest.”​