Hiring for Dubai – how to spot those who will excel here

For those who haven’t lived and worked in Dubai, the emirate has a reputation as a dynamic city that never sleeps. That may be true, but when we think about the type of person who thrives in such an environment, it is a little more complicated than just finding a ‘go-getter’. Because while Dubai is a busy place where a strong work ethic pays dividends, it’s also a place where the qualities of being adaptable, culturally sensitive and resilient can play a major role.

This article breaks down the qualities that recruitment & talent acquisition professionals and business leaders are looking for when they recruit for this unique business environment. I’ll show that, from a psychological perspective, rather than looking for distinct personality types, the Dubai environment requires a strong mix of skills and attributes. From adaptability and empathy to resilience under pressure – there are many qualities that make a candidate suitable for Dubai’s fast-paced, multicultural, and hierarchical business environment.

Let’s start by establishing the basic personality types in business and then look at how different ‘types’ are best suited to the Dubai business world.

Personality types and hiring in Dubai

About 2,000 years ago, the Greek physician and philosopher Hippocrates set out four basic personality types. Considering them today, each has qualities that will play out well in Dubai.

Type A people focus on achieving goals, take risks, and are good under stress; Type Bs are socialisers, relationship-orientated and outgoing; Type Cs are thoughtful, well-prepared and detail-focused; and Type D people are supporters, task-orientated, and a stabilising influence.

We could take a few qualities from each of these four personality types to create the ideal Dubai business personality – in other words, all kinds of personality types can succeed here. Let’s look at some of those qualities in more detail and see how they intersect with success in Dubai’s business environment.

Cultural adaptability

Many places claim to be melting pots, but Dubai really does draw professionals from every corner of the globe – over 200 nationalities, in fact. So, a successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to navigate diverse perspectives, communicate effectively across cultural boundaries, and maintain respect for local customs and traditions.

It’s important to look for candidates who highlight past experiences working within multicultural teams or in international roles. Those who will thrive are candidates who are open to collaborating with individuals from varied backgrounds, understand the importance of inclusivity, and can promote a respectful environment.

Understanding Emirati culture is also critical for building successful business relationships here, so someone who can take the time to learn about local customs, traditions, and religious practices – particularly showing consideration for Islamic practices such as fasting during Ramadan – will be well placed to succeed.

It’s also important to note that the UAE’s business culture places emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority. With this in mind, it is vital to address individuals with appropriate titles and show deference to senior leaders where appropriate. Since decision-making authority often rests at the top, building relationships with key influencers and decision-makers is essential.

This really comes into play if the candidate is up for a role where they will need to navigate interactions with the UAE government as part of their job – the government plays a central role in the UAE’s business landscape, so the ability to build strong relationships with these entities and understand regulatory requirements is vital. Aligning with the government’s initiatives and vision can also provide valuable insights and open doors to opportunities.

Agility and work ethic

The pace of business in Dubai is fast, and organisations often operate in a state of continuous change. Candidates who excel in this environment are agile and resilient in the face of challenges. During interviews, ask about instances where they successfully managed conflicting instructions or bounced back from setbacks. The emirate’s reputation for excellence is well-known and is especially important in sectors such as finance, real estate, and technology, where high performance is the norm.

While adaptability is important, so is the promise of a candidate who will grow over time. Think about who the individual is now as well as who they might become. Dubai thrives on progress, and organisations here value employees with long-term growth potential. Look for candidates who are ready for today’s challenges and eager to evolve, learn, and take on greater responsibilities in the future.

Team orientation

Collaboration is the foundation for success in Dubai’s professional environment. Candidates who are team-oriented and excel in building relationships will contribute positively to a harmonious and productive workplace. This also relates to the issues of cultural sensitivity mentioned earlier.

Cultivating meaningful personal relationships is key to successful professional interactions in Dubai. Trust is highly valued, and establishing rapport often depends on personal connections – usually developed in person. Candidates willing to attend networking events, participate in social gatherings, and engage in informal conversations before entering into business discussions will be in a strong position for success.

Company values and local market dynamics

The alignment of personal values with company culture is crucial for long-term success. Whether an organisation prioritises sustainability, customer-centricity, or innovation, it should ensure candidates share these values. Behavioural assessments and situational questions during interviews can help uncover this alignment.

A formal and respectful demeanour defines business interactions in the UAE. Dressing conservatively and professionally is especially important when dealing with government officials or traditional industries.

Candidates with prior experience in the Middle East or a sound understanding of Dubai’s market dynamics will have a distinct advantage. Look for those who are familiar with the regulatory environment, customer expectations, and industry trends specific to the region. These candidates will have a head-start in any Dubai-based role.

Language skills

While English is the primary business language in Dubai, additional language skills can often be a valuable asset. Proficiency in Arabic, Hindi, or other widely spoken languages in the region can enhance a candidate’s ability to connect with clients and colleagues. Even if they don’t bring other languages to the table, the desire to learn a few Arabic phrases can help build rapport and demonstrate respect for the local culture.

Finding the right candidate

Hiring for Dubai requires more than evaluating qualifications and technical skills. It’s about finding individuals who embody the adaptability, resilience, and drive needed to thrive in one of the world’s most vibrant business hubs.

By focusing on these qualities, you can build a team that meets your organisation’s immediate needs and contributes to its long-term success in Dubai’s business landscape.