Live and work in Dubai

A Guide to Dubai by Monocle Magazine

Monocle

A City Special

Tue, June 29, 2021

Dubai has achieved extraordinary and rapid growth and is now wowing the world with much more than the beach life and bling that hit the global headlines. We meet the movers, shakers, doers and makers who are redefining the city and giving it cultural clout.

Monocle

A City Special

On lifeand business

Noor SweidFounder and General Partner, Global Ventures, global.vc
“More than 80 per cent of Dubai’s population comes from abroad and this has brought diversity of thought and experience. The city is a great place to find regional talent and build teams because it attracts driven, curious and motivated people who are able to collaborate with others from different cultures and backgrounds. Dubai is a bridge to all walks of life.“
Dan BoltonFounder, Dan Bolton Creative Management, danbolton.me
“Dubai has matured over the past few years and now competes with the rest of the world creatively, especially in the events industry. We produce some of the biggest events the world has seen. I have colleagues around the world who are envious of our opportunities and the ability and quality of our suppliers. What takes 10 years to develop elsewhere happens quickly here.“
Grace HouserDirector, XVA Hotel and Gallery
“People here are developing more of an awareness and an appreciation for art. Dubai is such a young city in a very young nation. The glitz, glam and novelty of going from a country that wasn’t developed to a nation that is has worn off and I’m happy because the appreciation for art and things that are enjoyable to be around and look at in your home has grown tremendously.“
Scott ChambersFounder, Surf House, surfingdubai.com
“Most people didn’t even know you could surf here. The atmosphere is conducive to speaking to someone you don’t know. Suddenly you have new friends.“
Sonia GokhaleFounding Partner, Venture Souq, venturesouq.com
“There are a lot of myths when it comes to Dubai. I’m a Canadian female working here and had no problems at all. I’ve worked for a private company, a government and now I have my own company. I never felt disadvantaged by being a female. I’ve always felt encouraged and respected by my peers.“
Janus RostockArchitect, Aecom
“Being able to do masterplans and architecture has been rewarding because it’s live. You draw a line and then you build it outside your window. Dubai Opera is a good example. Very few people get from the first sketch to the final building in just four years. It’s mind-boggling.“

Urban planning, sociable living

For a city built almost entirely within the past 50 years, you’d expect tip-top infrastructure and Dubai has happily obliged with a swift network of roads, an efficient metro system and the world’s busiest international airport a handful of sand’s throw from the city centre. Dubai banked on connectivity and it has paid off in spades.

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Open minds welcome

It’s no secret that Dubai is a great place to do business but what are the elements and initiatives that make it tick? We discover the emirate’s magnetic pull.

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What makes the city tick

In the space of a decade, Dubai has transformed itself from a regional player to a global capital for the creative industries and the arts. We meet some of the inspiring souls who are driving the change and take a look into how the city intends to keep its residents inspired.

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The drawing board

A shimmering high-rise in the sand, Dubai is developing design credentials that rival any international capital and investing in its people, neighbourhoods and a considered creative infrastructure.

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World on a plate

The variety of great food in the city is simply staggering. Other cities stuck in a polarised rut of Michelin stars or cardboard boxes of generic fast food should take note. And Dubai’s retail scene is following a similarly interesting route.

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More to see in the city on the sea

We spent a considerable amount of time speaking to Dubai’s most influential thinkers about what makes the city tick, its big plans for the future and what it means to live and work here. There are still some essential attractions and customs that mustn’t be missed, which we share with you here for more memorable moments.

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Business and entrepreneurship | It’s no surprise that Dubai is known for being friendly to business. Here are some particularly noteworthy new ventures and key personalities
Culture, art and media | Situated at a cultural crossroads between east and west, Dubai’s art scene attracts both creators and appreciators of art from around the world
Architecture, design and fashion | The scope for grand designs makes this city an architect’s dream – and designers across aesthetic disciplines are also well represented
Hospitality and retail | Build your itinerary here. From famous malls, grand addresses and under-the- radar shops to haute cuisine and casual dining spots, Dubai has it all