I have checked the thread archive and found few recent and resourceful threads on Dubai, so I thought I'd poll my peeps and see what you have to say. Two questions: first, for those who have worked there, what is the experience like? What were the types of engagement and issues you encountered; how did these differ from the norm. Second, do those of you with a bit of experience regard having Dubai on your CV as a risk? Any chance a future recruiter might look at it and wonder whether I couldn't cut it back home? Quick backgrounder: four degrees, 1:1, dean's honours in the MBA, good experience in change management, healthcare, and service operations. Thanks

Depends on how you go- with an established firm on assignment or to do a transformation job is one thing, just wandering over there and doing a few unrelated short term contracts another. And if you're female, don't bother- it is a complete nightmare

Thanks for your reply, Nikki. I'm a 35 year-old male. I would head over having signed with a larger company for a permanent position. How uch time did you spend there? I have heard that it isn't a pleasant environment for women.

Young and dynamic workforce. Great pay. I wouldn't make a career of it, but it's a decent gig for a few years. Difficult for women, though, as nikki says.

Hi all, could u please give more details why is dubai difficult for women?thanks a prioriA

Just so that female readers aren't scared off too easily, I have one female friend that has just joined PwC in Dubai and seems to be doing very well/ enjoying herself. Another female friend (ex-IBM) has been out for a year and is now working in an in-house role. Both were UK based before. Of course there are cultural issues you have to overcome and challenges to face that you wouldn't face in the UK - but I'd say female colleagues experienced these problems when working on projects in South Africa, Japan and Eastern Europe - so not a problem unique to Dubai by any means.From what I can see the range of consulting opportunities there is expanding significantly right now - and where there's fast growth there are usually significant career progression possibilities too. So don't be put off!!Tony Restell (Top-Consultant.com)

Tony - could you kindly give some reasons why it may be difficult or more problematic for women?

men in the middle east are basicaly mcps and racists.

Dubai itself isn't too bad for women, the workforce is really mixed and the local Emirati women go out to work and indeed often show up their male counterparts.The influence of Saudi Arabia and Islam in the rest of the region is the problem, women are basically 2nd class citizens (though if you ask a local Muslim they'll say the fact that women can't drive, rarely work etc. is because they're so "special) and so in consultancy if a woman is sitting there telling a man what to do they simply ignore them. There is also a huge problem with racism in the region, even highly educated 2nd/ 3rd generation Indian/ Pakistani from the UK are treated as people to shout at and pay a third of what the white people earn (consultancies and pay equally, they're about the only ones who do, even some big multinationals take advantage of this disgraceful situation).If you find the right company you can avoid both these problems, but it's a sore but true point to say that Dubai is much easier if you're a white or Arabic male.

Oh, and on the career progression point, there is amazing things going on over here at the moment, I did 6 years consulting out of the UK and it's so much more exciting here (starting new companies, growth strategies, market entry strategies, new product and service development etc.). The money in the region is being used to buy up assets around the world so in a few years time when things are stagnant in Europe and the US these guys will be driving the big deals with the Indians and Chinese.

iS THERE MUCH OF A CLUBBING SCENE THERE?

Just about every big name DJ comes regularly (well, from my limited knowledge anyway!)

Hi,I've been working in strategy consulting in the middle-east for over a year now. All my 'gigs' have been in Saudi Arabia although i've been based in Dubai. The kind of work happening in the region is amazing. There's a buzz which is exciting. Methinks, Dubai or working in the region shouldn't be too bad on your CV, especially because of the kind of work you'll be doing (hopefully). Personally, i've been fortunate to get all top-level long-term strategy cases so far. That said, while moving here, one needs to be prepared as the infrastructure in Dubai (Saudi seems to be better, relatively), is always playing catch-up. That impacts your quality of life.3 nightmares to watch out for (in Dubai)- 1. Getting a driving license can be a nightmare if you don't have one which is convertible. This results in you having to depend on cabs, which ain't pretty (longest i've waited is 2.5 hrs). Although it may seem like a minor issue, it frustrates me everyday (when i'm on the beach) at least twice. Of course, consulting firms prefering to locate themselves in the busiest and poshest areas doesn't help.2. Finding a suitable place to stay is another nightmare. You'd be lucky if you can balance price, location and quality of accommodation. If your firm takes care of your accommodation, half the problems are solved. 3. Traffic - This is not unique to Dubai; nightmarish nonetheless. In addition, driving on the roads can be pretty shoddy, with people generally experiencing at least 2-3 close encounters everyday. This explains why it has been made so difficult to obtain a license.If you can manage to organise yourself well in the city, you'll love it. As regards the issue of women - generally it's ok as long as the firm has a balanced distribution of work across geographies. This is not the case with some firms. They tend to have cases in Saudi Arabia (representing 60+% of the GCC economy) where partners seldom consider staffing women. It's a pity clients there are devoid of some outstanding talents. Alright, that's my 2 cents worth.All the best,KB

Come over here Pear. I am sure that you would do well here. Just make sure you get drunk and abuse a policeman, raise your middle finger at a local or drink outside during Ramadan.......

Some good points from KB, if you're joining at a mid to senior level you should be able to afford good housing, though expect to baulk when you see the prices at first even if coming from London/ NY.To clarify, a convertible driving license is usually a big European country, US, Australia etc. You can just take a translated copy of your license along and exchange it. If you're not from these countries, you're forced to take driving lessons and a test before they'll give you a license, this can take months. As a note to a note, also you need to have a passport from the country you have the license from, being e.g. Lebanese and having a UK license won't get it exchanged. It might seem racist, but if you've been to Beirut you'll know why!

driving in Egypt even worse. I was on the phone to an Egyptian guy who was complaining to me about having to re-do his driving test so that he could drive here, although he had been driving for 20 years. I did sympathise until I realised he was speaking to me on his mobile while taking his test!!

I find its far too hot in these Gulf states to drive a convertible...I think I'll go for a hard top license..

I find its far too hot in these Gulf states to drive a convertible...I think I'll go for a hard top license..

KB, Which consultancy are you working in? Also any idea where i can find a list of consultancies with offices in Dubai?

Dubai's image hit by rape trialhttp://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/62db024c-8cd6-11dc-b887-0000779fd2ac.htmlI think it explains quite well at which stage Dubai is, with all its internal contradictions.

Yes, a total disgrace that trial. This place is 90% westernised but the wrinkles of a Western/Islam culture still being worked out. Search for "Dubai" and there's threads on companies here.

- Most will only take you at post MBA level- this is a dollar pegged economy so salaries will not seem too great if you are paid in euros or UK pounds- the tier 1 are here. Same rules apply as in Europe. - the 2nd tier are improving but have traditionally struggles to pay competitivelyUltimately if you are fixated on Dubai as a location. a year in consulting followed by a cheeky migration into a bank/govt company might make some sense. It is not all it is cracked up to be. If you are haoping to save money, you are in the wrong place. If you want to learn, gain some experience and have your patience tested....

Does anyone know what top-tier strategy consultancies are paying for pre-MBA positions?Any info would be appreciated.

unless you are already here, you are very unlikely to be hired at pre-MBA level. There are plenty of graddies in the region and no need to fly people over

to NG - Can't reveal firm name. Almost all big guys are here i think. Tier 2/3 - you probably need to check on their websites.To sandra/ hmmm - kinda agree with "Dubai Consultany", except the post-MBA bit. Demand for Arabic speakers, especially, is quite high.

Thanks. I am already interviewing with a few firms and would like to know what salary I should negotiate.

Make sure you do your due diligence and find out as much as you can about the companies you are talking to. Particularly true here. Get proper 3rd party advice rather than just listening to those you are interviewing with

To warning - thanks for the heads up. I am interviewing with two of the McK/B/B; do I still need to be careful about what they would offer me or can I simply trust them ?Thanks again.

For pre MBA and a top tier firm you could expect around 25k AED a month which includes housing.Others correct me if I'm wrong.

Not true - local graduates are not really rated by top-class employers. Even for junior positions a European pre-MBA will be preferred to a local.

I disagree, they want a mix. Although the local market or Arabs aren't as well educated, they have a big advantage in that they speak Arabic. English is fine in the UAE, but most of these firms spend lots of time in Saudi and the likes and an all-English speaking team is simply not possible.

this disgraceful situation also exist in Germany France and Italy! the democracy centers in western civilization! And living in Europe, I can assure you women are still treated as second class citizens in the board rooms - it is just being done inplicitely. so dont worry about work conditions in dubai. It s as good or bad as anywhere else in the world

Togiski - you're fired!

Hi;As a young girl working in the Middle East area I have to confess there are so many challenges for women working in this region. The reason is actually the cultural difference and how men like to take power. If you are a male then I would say Dubai is a perfect place for you. The Economy is growing very fast and there are great opportunities in Construction, Telecom, Consulting, etc. The environment is so dynamic and alive. I've spent almost one week each month, 2 months in Dubai on Business Trips during last years and I've always liked it. The only issue could be the horrible traffic and getting a taxi which is sometimes annoying. There are many cultures living in Dubai and I've seen many investments from big companies, industries, etc there. I'm sure it's going to be a positive point on your C.V. since MEA markets have their own challenges and getting an experience in Emerging Markets is always good and positive. Despite the humid weather and traffic it's an excellent place for both living and working. Hope this helps,And if you are from U.K. do you have any advice for me , as I'm moving to U.K.?

Yeah, 'hi to dubai' is right; its a good place if you work for a reputed international company. Avoid local , or arab, companies.Dubai is quite cosmopolitan and relaxed in its laws. You should be ok. Even for women, they should be generally ok. You should know that a very large percentage opf the dubai population is actually not arab- mix between american, aust, europeans etc, so this makes it much more fair and civilized than other arab counterparts such as saudi arabia.Unfortunately, also as other writers have noted, arab laws are very discrimatory. White americans get first preference ( and highest salary), followed by white europeans, and then australians. People of 'color' such as indians, africans , chinese, etc are not as valued.Aand to complete the discrimatory suite, of course, muslims are preferred, followed by christians, then buddhists, then hindus, and lastly jewish.This is all extremely racist and discriminatory but that is how it works- if you want to live there, you have to play by their rules.My conclusion: work there for a multinational company for 2-3 years. Make shitloads of money ( tax free,of course), then return a wealthy man.

Am slightly amazed at the bla bla in this thread regarding Dubai. Been here working in consultancy for nearly a year. No problem for girls unless Saudi Arabia is concerned. Also lots of bars, clubs and beach here...plus tax-free salary. Place is 80% expat (by the way over 100,000 Brits living in Dubai). When you go out you are surrounded by Europeans (residents or tourists) with many options, although not as wide as London of course but good fun.The big difference is no tax.This means: Post-MBAs can expect around $130k base + up to $40k bonus pre-tax (e.g. $170k)This is roughly equivalent to a UK salary of £130k before tax for a fresh MBA, which isnt too shabby.All top tier consultancies are majorly recruiting at the moment.There is so much growth in the region that many engagements resolve around expansion, M&A, growth strategies, entry strategies etc. Quite different to many projects around cost cutting in Europe...Plus, you can easily live in Dubai Marina (nice flats) or villas in The springs, the greens etc and still save a significant amount of money each year.So all in all, whether girl or boy, if you are up for a 2-4 year stint of interesting work, travel, savings and sun, Dubai could be a good choice. Only drawback is that the place lacks a bit of soul and gets very hot in the summer...

would agree with all of that. Have been trying to buy property recently and the laws on that are akin to UK in the 1980's. Looks like I am about to be gazumped (is that the word?) less than 2 weeks before completion... Dubai is great providing you have a decent salary or low living costs. ie if you are on your own and renting a room off someone, no problem. If you are out with family, you need to get the salary and benefits up so that you can cover all the costs. It does lack soul, it does get hot in the summer. If you are single, you can have a good laugh here with enormous numbers of events, parties etc. If you are with family, I would say that it is a good test of your relationship. If you both work, you need to look closely at the work options for both you and wife/husband. It can be soul destroying if you get a great job but your spouse does not. That said, if you do get a good job, you may be able to cover things financially much better than was previously possible... providing you have a supportive spouse.

AM,1. Is the 130 base + 40 bonus you are referring to for MBB? Wouldn't mbb lower the base given the tax climate? The salary you mention is a bit less than 11K base per month, which is a lot higher than mainland Europe mbb salaries! (I am starting as an analyst in 10 months, and was under the impression my consultant salary package in 10m+2y (if I skip the mba) would be 110K euro + car + insurance. The 100K translates into 60K net per year.)2. If possible, could you comment on the private equity scene in Dubai? I know Bain Capital pays mid 6 figures to analysts in New York, if similar firm also do so in Dubai, that's 30K a month (give or take 5)!

in your argument is to assume that companies should equalise the tax. There is no such thing as tax free living. everything has to be paid for somehow. Also if you are in your home country, you are bound to pay less for housing than the person who enters the country from the outside. you probably own a car and have your basics (everything from curtains to your mobile phone) in place. When you need to set all of that up from scratch, you incur huge costs. People who move over, even as experienced hires, tend to do so because they want to be here. In reality (I have seen 10's of cases in the past year) the overall financial equation is relatively attractive but certainly not the deciding factor. ie you will do OK but certainly not massively better than you would in Europe.

My argument was based on the assumption that the (labor) demand curve of mbb is not completely price inelastic nor that labor supply by mbb employees is completely elastic.These are reasonable assumptions.

In response to AM:I've met with two M/B/B consultants (post-MBAs) and they both received similar monthly salaries of a little less over 30k dirhams (local currency) which equates to an annual base salary of $100K + a signing bonus of $25k...Are your figures for fresh graduate MBAs hired as Associates? I'm inclined to believe that 130k is more into the lower end of the Engagement Manager's salary bracket here in Dubai.

There is no way MBB would be paying as low as AED 30K for post-MBA. More likely they pay 30K base with housing on top (c.10-12K).AM's comparision with UK is valid in my experience; firms generally seem to pay UK-equivalent salaries, consequently UAE-based employees recieve the full tax benefit.

hi - does anyone have a view on the salary range at consultant level for BCG Dubai?I'd heard $130-160k +30-40% bonus - does this seem realistic?

The very bottom of that scale may be doable.

The key thing to bear in mind is the astronomical and ever-increasing cost of accommodation, which more or less wipes out the effect of the tax break - my rule of thumb is that (eg) 60K tax-free here leaves you with about the same amount of disposable income as 60K taxable in the UK.There are some amazing things going on in Dubai in terms of explosive growth, and I certainly don't think a stint out here would be a blemish on your CV - quite the contrary. But the lifestyle and culture (or lack thereof) is not for everyone. I'm heading back to London soon and will be glad to be getting out of Disneyland. I disagree with some of the comments upthread about it being difficult for women to work here. I know lots of women in good managerial positions who are doing just fine. Then again, I'm a bloke, so don't take my word for it.

In my experience, consulting gigs in the UAE should earn you around 10-20% more than in the UK. This, combined with the tax advantages makes the region a very attractive proposition and most people I know are able to put aside a good chunk of their salary as savings. In regards to accomodation, sure it's expensive if you compare to some parts of the UK, however if you compare Dubai to London you will find housing costs are very similar....

rental prices are not too far apart I suppose but most experienced consultants in london will either own their home and have relatively fixed mortgage costs or be on some sort of controlled -ish rent. Even in Dubai, those who arrived a few years back will be paying a lot less than those who arrive now.

Having had family in Dubai since year dot, I'd say that housing costs are not high everywhere. Recently friends who have moved out rent large houses in i.e. Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Mirdif and share with a number of colleagues, friends, randoms which appears to reduce the costs allowing you to keep your take-home pay higher than in i.e. London. With a job in consultancy in Dubai, quality of life is better than London as long as you don't mind the thought of living like Sandy Cohen in the O.C.

Please does anyone have any information on OMAN? Just about reolocating to Oman and curious about living with family? and the women thing?

Oman,is beautiful for holiday but tough to live. a little backward, extremely quiet. not a lot for families to do. Small expat community which you will either like or not. Women - depends what they want to do. tough for women I would say. Woman applying from outside for job n consulting... I doubt it. Woman coming with family to be with husband who has secured a job. You would be OK but you will be needing to get out quite frequently to keep yourself sane. Expats in Oman like to get down to Dubai to liven up. People in Dubai like to go to Oman to chill out.

Hi I agree with the last post. Oman still has a frontier town feel which will suit the adventurous and outdoors types and those into new culture. It is a limited life with minimal distractions. Your life-lines will be getting in with the local expat comunity and spending time with them as well as getting involved with water-sports, desert excursions, social clubs. There are various 5* hotels (Chedi, Intercon, Bustan Palace etc.) which will be centres of activity for expats and it makes sense to join these. They will also be the only places to drink alcohol. You may be entitles to a 'booze license' which is at least what you get in Dubai. Otherwise escape to Dubai for weekends (1hr flight from Muscat or 6hr drive in the 4x4). Good luck

The descriptions on Oman would be applicable to Qatar as well, except that: it looks more modern; and things are more expensive.

You don't need a 4x4 to drive between Muscat and Dubai, whether you go through Hatta or Al Ain - both are good highways. I recommend the latter, as there are no speed cameras on the Oman leg and you can go 160k/hr.

Qatar is much smaller than Oman, with not much to do. It's flat, featureless and cultureless, although not nearly as bad Kuwait. As well as UAE and Oman, Bahrain is a decent place.

There's a reason they call Doha "Dullha"...I agree with the comments upthread about Dubai being an increasingly expensive place to live. Even just two or three years ago you could save a good chunk of your salary but rent has gone through the roof and the dirham-dollar peg has caused a lot of inflation in other areas as well. Don't expect to save a lot here.