Bashir Siman would have loved to celebrate his OBE with his entire family, but he settled for a big box of chocolates instead.
The Iraqi-born merchant banker's children study abroad, so Mr Siman, who has lived and worked in the UAE for a decade, quietly commemorated his appointment with his wife and some sweet treats.
The banker, who was recognised for supporting British financial services in Abu Dhabi, is one of three people named on Queen Elizabeth's 2012 birthday honours list and awarded medals for their work supporting the UK in the UAE.
"I think that it's a great honour and recognition. It doesn't change anything materially, but it changes the way one looks at one's responsibilities," said Mr Siman.
Working in the financial services sector, the special representative to the UAE for UK Trade and Investment said the new title would push him to worker even harder.
"The development of the financial services sector in the UAE over the past 10 years has been tremendous. I am very happy where I am. I think I'll just do more of the same."
Also made an OBE was Peter Michelmore, 61, a senior partner at the Middle East branch of international law company Reed Smith LLP.
Having celebrated over the weekend, Mr Michelmore, who was honoured for supporting British business interests in Abu Dhabi, said he was keen to share his delight and pride with his colleagues.
"It's super, very flattering and lovely to have. But there are a lot of people who have helped and who have been very supportive, including the British Embassy and the UK Trade and Investment team at the embassy."
Having worked in the UAE on and off since the late 1970s, eventually settling in Abu Dhabi in 1997, Mr Michelmore said it has been fascinating watching the country grow.
"It's constantly evolved and constantly developed over the years, and it's just a fascinating country.
"We're fascinated by its development and we're very keen to promote the relationship between the UK and the UAE."
Also on the queen's list is Julie Richards, who was made an MBE for her role serving UK-linked schools and colleges in the Emirates. She said being recognised for her work as a teacher at Abu Dhabi Men's Higher College of Technology and as the chair of the board of governors at the British School Al Khubairat, the latter of which is a voluntary position, was "breathtaking".
"I celebrated all day yesterday and all of today. It's been absolutely amazing and I am just over the moon."
After being sworn to secrecy and unable tell anyone about her nomination for several weeks, finally being allowed to break the news to family and friends - as well as the staff at Al Khubairat - was a welcome relief for the mother of two.
But all after the excitement dies down, she has vowed to continue working as normal. "I don't think it will change anything but, obviously, I'm very pleased for myself. It's a real honour. I'm also really pleased for the school."
Dominic Jermey, the British ambassador to the UAE, was full of praise for his three compatriots.
"Peter Michelmore, Julie Richards and Bashir Siman are outstanding members of the British community here in the UAE.
"They have each made a significant and unique contribution to the growing partnership between the UK and UAE and I was thrilled to see their service recognised by Her Majesty the Queen in such a special way during this year of her Diamond Jubilee.
"Congratulations to all three of them."
