Faisal Maher Sawalmah is using Twitter’s live video-streaming application Periscope to change misconceptions about the UAE. And with his videos getting up to 3,000 likes, he’s making notable progress.
Despite temporarily being blocked earlier this year, Periscope is taking off in the region. In an interview with The National in September, Benjamin Ampen, Twitter's Dubai-based head of sales for the Mena region, said: "Periscope was mentioned more than 19,000 times on Twitter in the UAE last month, with about 8,804 of the tweets originating in Dubai."
As one of the early adopters of Periscope, Maher Sawalmah says it allows him to share his pride in his country – his account has more than 1,400 followers.
He does this by sharing live footage of some of the UAE’s unseen or unheard places, working with Ahmad Al Suwaidi and Mohammed Suboosi, who also contribute videos. Maher Sawalmah says he loves to film at Gerard Cafe in Jumeirah, Dubai, and that his viewers also like footage of areas such as Nad Al Sheba or Lahbab, which show simpler parts the UAE. Maher Sawalmah also wants to educate people abroad via the app, which can be downloaded for iPhone or Android.
“One girl watched our videos and got inspired to show and break the misconception of how Emirati women are treated. False ideas about women [include] that they can’t drive, work, go out and so on.”
The 23-year-old Emirati, whose parents are both doctors, is currently studying architecture at the American University in Dubai.
“I wanted to become a doctor or [work] in the medical field, but I do not have the patience for it, and my father concurs.”
According to Maher Sawalmah, who has always had an interest in new technologies, educating people in the way he does with his videos is important for society.
“There are many ways to use Periscope in a positive way,” he says. “ I just want to give my country a beautiful image.”
What's your favourite food?
Cheeseburgers, because they are cheeseburgers.
What's your favourite building in the UAE?
The Burj Al Arab.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
Thailand – I love it because of the people, the food and the ambience.
Describe yourself in four words.
Positive, logical, friendly and a charmer.
What do you do to relax?
I chill in my room – it’s my fortress of solitude, my sanctum sanctorum.
Who inspires you and why?
My mother, because of her ambitious personality and the example she sets for me and my sisters.
What music are you currently listening to?
Animals by Dr Dre from the album Compton. I just love the beat.
What are the five things you never leave home without?
My phone, keys, wallet, earphones and garage key.
What is your favourite movie and why?
The Grand Budapest Hotel. I like the acting and cinematography in the movie. It's a great story with a fantastic cast, and it shows the beauty of a 1930s European setting.
malshamsi@thenational.ae
