Due to fast paced development, United Arab Emirates has become the second largest economy in the Arab world, Saudi Arabia being the first. And Dubai’s economy has played a significant part in achieving this.
Dubai, UAE is ranked 21st globally on ‘ease of doing business report’ released by World Bank recently. These statistics reveal as to why Dubai is a favorite business destination among all businessmen across the globe.
If you too are heading to Dubai for business, then there are certain aspects you need to keep in mind. Here, we have pointed out business travel tips that you might find useful.
1. No Business on Fridays.
Dubai, being a Muslim majority city, marks Friday as a day of prayer and rest. Therefore, you should avoid planning business meetings on Fridays. Also, avoid making phone calls to Arabs on this day as, most probably, they won’t respond.
The resting hours for Arabs are generally from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, so you should make adjustments in your schedule while keeping this in mind.
The work week runs from Sunday through Thursday in this city. This means that Sunday is the first working day of the week. So, be prepared for this and don’t be surprised when they call you for a meeting on Sunday!
2. Business during Ramadhan.
Dubai looks like a bit different during the month of Ramadhan. Its effect can be felt in the whole business community in Dubai. While Businesses do not come to a complete stop, but there is a change in office and meeting timings. So, make sure you check the opening and closing hours of business in advance.
Most of the businesses close before 6 pm. If you happen to be in Dubai during Ramadhan, you need to make suitable adjustments in your schedule. Also, most of the meetings take place after Iftar.
3. Taxi Drivers.
If you want to get around the city, then taxis are the cheapest means of transportation. However, not every taxi driver is familiar with all locations across Dubai. Therefore, if you can’t afford to be late at the workplace then don’t rely on them. You need to have a car and if you don’t have one then you can rent a car in Dubai from any car rental agency.
Dubai is a fast-paced city and you must value your time. So, make sure you show up on meetings, presentations, and workshops on time.
4. Meeting customs.
Meetings in Dubai begin with Islamic greetings and handshake.
You should expect a plenty of small talk and chit chat which can go on for some time before the discussion about the business is started. Avoid talking about the controversial topics. Keep your conversation as clean as possible.
The meetings can be interrupted and be prepared to expect this. It makes the decision making a long process so, you need to be patient.
The dress code is conservative and modest for both men and women. Therefore, don’t wear too much revealing clothes during meetings.
The fun part is that most of the meetings in Dubai take place in restaurants and hotels.
5. Adhere to laws.
Remember that Dubai is Muslim emirate and its laws are somewhat different from western countries. Some laws that you need to pay attention to are:
- You can get arrested for PDA.
PDA stands for Public Display of Affection. It is not legal in Dubai. You need to keep this in mind while you are out in public places like restaurants, malls, beaches etc.
- Photography
There are strict laws in Dubai regarding photography. For example, you can’t take picture of a person without taking his/her permission. Also, photography is not allowed at public places.
There are other laws too you need be aware of. Research a bit before going on a business trip.
Traveling to Dubai is an exciting experience and these were some tips that can make your business traveling experience even better. If we missed anything then do let us know in the comments below. Wishing you a happy journey from all of us at TripJohn