How a Dubai dad turned his daughter's joy into heartwarming children's book series

Khaleej Times

19-06-2025

Safder Nazir never imagined that a quiet weekend, writing at his desk, would mark the beginning of a legacy. But in 2023, the seasoned tech executive and father of five published The Adventures of Layla, a heartfelt children's book inspired by his youngest daughter. Layla, now eight, was born with Down's Syndrome — and it's her joyful spirit, fierce determination, and magnetic presence that shaped not only the pages of a book, but the very soul of a family.
'I wrote it for her — and for children like her,' says Nazir, 53, who has called Dubai home since 2003. 'Layla is a gift. I wanted the world to see her that way too.'
The Adventures of Layla isn't a book about disability. It's a celebration of curiosity, courage, and slices of experiences from Layla's life. The first story, Layla at the Beach, is based on one of her favourite places and her unique experiences — from packing her backpack to finding a disability parking space. The upcoming sequel, Layla and the Party, recounts a touching moment when Layla lost her helium balloon and simply said, 'Why can't Daddy get it back when he can do everything?'
'These are the moments that stay with you,' says Nazir. 'They're funny, profound, and entirely her.'
Though many know him as the senior vice president for public sector at a global tech firm, few realise Nazir's quieter role as an author capturing tender memories in prose. The books subtly weave in themes of inclusion, resilience, and diversity — not by making them central, but by celebrating Layla simply as the star of her story.
A father's purpose
For Nazir, Father's Day isn't just a date on the calendar — it's a time for reflection. His journey into fatherhood began decades ago in Manchester, England, where his two elder daughters were born and raised. He moved to Dubai with his wife Carla, a teacher, in 2003, building a life grounded in love, values, and spirituality. Together, they raised five daughters: Raihaanah (25), Sumayyah (23), Ameerah (18), Safiyyah (16), and the youngest, Layla.
Nazir and Carla were in their mid-forties when they discovered they were expecting Layla. 'We thought we were done,' he chuckles, recalling the surprise when Carla informed him she was pregnant again. 'But Layla was always meant to be. I believe every soul destined to be born will arrive, no matter what we plan.'
Like many older parents, they were offered advanced prenatal testing. One test suggested their daughter may have Down's Syndrome, and termination was suggested as an option.
Nazir's response was immediate and resolute: 'That was never an option.'
And so, Layla arrived — reshaping not just his schedule, but his soul.
From her earliest days, Layla began redefining expectations. Though initial concerns included a hole in the heart, possible developmental delays, and other challenges, she defied most of them with courage and light.
'She might not be the fastest runner in school,' Nazir says, 'but she's strong in spirit, and she loves physical activity. She has changed all of us. Her presence influenced everything — even my eldest daughter's career path.'
A late talker, Layla spoke her first word at four. Inspired by her sister's speech and language therapists, Raihaanah pursued the same path and now works with the National Health Services in Manchester. Sumayyah is following her own calling in dentistry, after a degree in biomedical science. Ameerah, also influenced by Layla, is studying to be an occupational therapist, 'We raised them with one principle: serve your community. That's where gratitude and fulfillment come from.'
The idea of legacy runs deep in Nazir's parenting. From teaching his daughters how to assemble furniture and handle car repairs to ensuring one-on-one bonding time — he's instilled confidence and independence in every daughter.
'He is their only male role model and he is determined to be the best one possible,' says Carla.
Their household was built on small rituals with big meaning. One conundrum he faced was which child to greet when he returned home from work. He solved it by lining them up — youngest to eldest — so that there would be no complaints. 'This is a path we follow for everything,' laughs Nazir. 'Youngest to oldest.'
The heart of the home
Despite the challenges of raising a child with special needs, Safder exudes calm and certainty. 'I never worried too much. I don't stress about milestones or timelines. My belief is that each child comes with their own provision — their own destiny. My job is to do my part and raise them with love, respect, and guidance.'
Layla isn't just the youngest — she's the heartbeat of the family. Her laughter fills their home, and her resilience reshapes perspectives. One of their favourite pastimes as dad and daughter, was running together in their compound — from one lamppost to the next.
'I taught her to pace her breath, to keep going. On sports day, it became a prompt for her when we shouted out: just one more lamp-post.'
Managing five daughters across different life stages hasn't been easy — but it's been deeply enriching. From errands and road trips to solo meals, Safder ensures they get individual quality time.
Even now, with three daughters living abroad, the family remains closely
knit. 'They come home often — and always make time for Layla.' In their
home, Layla isn't treated as someone different. She's included in everything, encouraged to try, and celebrated for being exactly who she is.
A digital legacy
Beyond his books, Nazir is quietly compiling a digital archive of Layla's life — short videos, reflections, milestones. Not for likes or views.
'It's for her to look back, to see how far she's come. To believe that she can do anything.'
And she already is — in her own time, in her own way, cheered on by a father who sees her not through the lens of limitation, but love.
'I dote on all my daughters,' Nazir says. 'But Layla… she's different. She's changed me. She's taught me patience, perspective, and joy in the simplest of moments.'