Explained: How Indian diaspora decided to say 'dasvidania' to Moscow

Employed in Russia, 'corporate refugees' with roots in India seek a haven in Dubai

In Dubai’s upscale and buzzing Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR), Nalini Sinha walks her dogs. “Nyet, nyet, (no, no)” she says in Russian as they sniff at a tourist in the Emirate’s glitzy seaside promenade. “Idi syuda! (come here)” The tourist asks if the dogs are Ukrainian or Russian, saying that she would pet them only if they were Ukrainian. “They’re Indian dogs who happen to have a Russian trainer,” Sinha replies warily.

Nearby, in a plush service apartment of a luxury hotel chain, Atul Kumar’s family stands by their beach-facing window, looking at the crowds of people on the promenade.