It is fascinating how Dubai progressed as the global hub for tourism and business in less than a decade. A business trip to Dubai has become a natural staple for corporate travel as Dubai is among the most desirable business destinations for startups and established businesses. Most people consider Dubai to be a popular and vibrant tourist place. The city is also a dynamic business destination.
Dubai caters to millions of business travelers by providing a robust infrastructure for MICE tourism. The city welcomes overseas entrepreneurs, traders, and investors by providing a sea of opportunities to prosper. No wonder Dubai is a favorite business travel destination. Knowing the best business centers is crucial if you are contemplating a business trip to Dubai.
Dubai’s best business destinations
1. Dubai Business Village
With a broad spectrum of business support services and infrastructure to establish new ventures, Dubai Business Village is a launch pad for many businesses in Dubai. You can seek support from capital investment companies, funding institutions, and strategic partners in the Business Village during the business travel to Dubai.
The place is home to several establishments providing services to small and medium businesses for their growth. The business village is also a suitable venue for meetings, conferences, and business events for visitors coming on business travel to Dubai. It provides offices on rent for companies with facilities for restaurants and parking. New businesses can access the Dubai Economic Department in Business Village for their mainland business setup.
2. Dubai Chamber of Commerce
Dubai Chamber of Commerce is helping the business community of Dubai by providing a supportive environment for setting up and operating business ventures. It supports over 245,000 members by providing legal services, organizing trade fairs and events, credit rating, legal support, international business networks, and training programs. The chamber of commerce represents the oldest business community in Dubai since its inception in 1965. Membership helps businesses get research reports, the opportunity to attend business events, and expert consultations.
3. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Over 4,000 active companies leverage the business-supportive environment and robust infrastructure of the Dubai International Financial Centre. Businesses benefit from inspiring green areas, residential apartments, ultra-modern offices, restaurants, and art galleries at DIFC. Being the financial hub of the MENASA region, DIFC is home to offices of several leading banks like Standard Chartered and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank.
4. Business Bay
Business Bay is Dubai’s ultra-modern financial district with countless skyscrapers and luxurious hotels and is home to many international and local enterprises. The commercial district has over 240 buildings housing residential and commercial spaces. There is an enormous demand for offices and residential apartments in Business Bay, which is the reason for perpetual construction activities here. Consider exploring Business Bay if you are planning business travel to Dubai from India.
5. Dubai World Trade Center
The 38-storeyed Dubai World Trade Center is Dubai’s oldest and prime destination for conferences, events, exhibitions, and seminars. It hosts events throughout the year, welcoming business delegates across all industrial sectors. It handles over three million visitors from hundreds of countries and serves 50,000 exhibitors. Business travelers can enjoy a broad spectrum of live performances throughout the year. There are several restaurants, offices, business lounges, and offices for business visitors.
Top attractions of Dubai on bleisure trip
Explore these attractions during your next business trip to Dubai:
1.Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world requires no description, as Burj Khalifa is on every international business traveler’s list of must-see places in Dubai. Enjoy the breathtaking view from its 124th floor and make memories to last a lifetime.
2. Dubai Water Canal
The 6.3km Dubai water canal will remind you of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. The canal has walking and cycle tracks with a marvelous mechanical waterfall.
3. Bay Avenue Park
Visit Bay Avenue Park to enjoy shopping for fresh vegetables and fruits at Farmer’s Market. The market is perfect for purchasing sweets, bread, and honey. There is a skate park in the area for skating enthusiasts.
4. Mountain Extreme
Must-visit indoor wall-climbing destination, whether you are a pro or a beginner. It provides several wall climbing courses mimicking mountain climbing.
5. Jumeirah Beach
Scenic sunset views and a pristine beach are the most sought-after attractions when you visit the most popular Jumeirah Beach in Dubai.
6. Burj Al Arab
The world’s fourth tallest hotel, Al Arab offers a magnificent view of its unique construction and location. Do not miss the choreographed lighting spectacle in the evening.
7. Dubai Clock Tower
The clock tower monument symbolizes Dubai’s trade and commercial activities. It bears the distinction of being among the world’s most beautiful clock towers.
8. Dubai Gold Souk
The largest gold market in the world, Dubai Gold Souk is a popular tourist destination with over 350 gold and jewelry shops. The daily turnover of gold in the market is close to 10 tons.
9. Old Souk
The Old Souk is the ultimate place for souvenir shopping. You can purchase spices, Arabian lanterns, rugs, dried fruits, and several varieties of UAE clothing.
Dubai is home to opulent malls, water parks, desert landscapes, and aquariums to make your business trip to Dubai a memorable one.
Business trip to Dubai preparations
- Book your flights and accommodations in advance
- Ensure your passport is valid
- Check required vaccinations
- Exchange currency before arriving
- Pack appropriate business attire
- Pack necessary business documents
- Arrange airport transportation
- Save local emergency contact numbers
- Learn about local customs and cultural norms
- Bring business cards for networking
- Keep receipts for expense management
Business etiquette tips for business travelers in Dubai
- Begin meetings with polite greetings
- Use titles and last names until you are invited to use first names. Titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. are common.
- Men should dress in business attire, and women should avoid revealing or tight clothing
- Present your business card with both hands and take a moment to look at the card you receive before putting it away
- Arrive on time for meetings, and be patient if your Emirati counterparts are a few minutes late
- Maintain a polite and respectful tone in all communications
- Respect the seniority of individuals in the room and address them accordingly
- Avoid scheduling meetings during prayer times and be mindful of Ramadan-related considerations
Factors to keep in mind while travelling to Dubai on business
- Cultural Sensitivity – Respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and appropriate behavior in public spaces.
- Business Etiquette – Familiarize yourself with the local business etiquette, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and engaging in courteous interactions.
- Visa Requirements – Check and ensure you have the appropriate visa for your business travel, adhering to Dubai’s entry regulations.
- Weather Conditions – Dubai experiences varied weather, so pack accordingly. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters are more temperate.
- Transportation Options – Explore and plan for the city’s diverse transportation options, including taxis, metro, and rideshare services.
- Networking Opportunities – Leverage Dubai’s vibrant business community by identifying networking events, conferences, and industry gatherings relevant to your business.
- Local Laws and Regulations – Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure compliance during your business activities.
- Language Considerations – While English is widely spoken, knowing a few Arabic phrases can be appreciated and beneficial in certain situations.
- Weekend Days – The workweek in Dubai is Sunday to Thursday. Be mindful of this when scheduling meetings and planning business-related activities.
- Respect for Friday Prayers – Friday is a holy day, and the city observes a break for Friday prayers. Plan activities around this cultural practice.
Conclusion
Whether you are planning a business or bleisure trip to Dubai, the city offers diverse locations to support your business objectives with its top-rated infrastructure and a supportive business environment. Dubai’s business communities are among the fastest growing in the world because of the city’s strategic location between the west and the east. Streamline your business travel to Dubai from India with an online travel management platform like Paxes. It helps you book travel and provides real-time travel alerts besides emergency support.
Suggested Read: What Is The Meaning And Importance Of Bleisure Traveler
Business Trip To Dubai FAQs
What is the corporate tax in Dubai?
There is a 9 percent corporate tax on profits exceeding 375,000 AED. Businesses need not pay any taxes below the profit of 375,000 AED.
How is the business environment in Dubai?
The business environment in Dubai is friendly and warm. Moat Dubai businesses are family-run enterprises.
What is the VAT percentage in Dubai?
There is a 5 percent VAT on select goods and services in Dubai.
What factors make Dubai a business hub?
Dubai is home to 19 venture capitalists, besides over 30 percent of investors from the Middle East and North America. The city has a strategic location being at an equidistance from the UK and China. These factors make Dubai a global business hub.
Do business travelers pay tax in Dubai?
Business travelers pay VAT on purchases of services and products.
Are there business-friendly hotels near the financial districts in Dubai?
The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre), Armani Hotel Dubai (Located in Burj Khalifa), Conrad Dubai (Near Dubai World Trade Centre), and Taj Dubai (Downtown Dubai) are top business friendly hotels.
What leisure activities can business travelers enjoy in Dubai during their free time?
Visiting tourist places, exploring cultural sites, relaxing on the beaches, experiencing vibrant nightlife.
Is it possible to conduct business meetings in top restaurants or cafes in Dubai?
Yes, it is possible to conduct business meetings in top restaurants or cafes in Dubai. Many establishments offer private dining areas and a conducive environment for discussions. However, it is essential to check with the venue in advance and consider the formality of the meeting.
Are there any cultural experiences for business travelers in Dubai?
Yes, business travelers can visit the historic Al Fahidi District and Heritage Village, Gold Souk, desert to experience culture of Dubai.
Are there networking events and business conferences held in Dubai?
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC): Hosts numerous exhibitions and conferences, Jumeirah Emirates Towers: Known for its business events and conferences, Atlantis, The Palm: Hosts various industry conferences and gatherings.
What makes Dubai a prime business travel destination?
Strategic location, modern infrastructure, global connectivity, business-friendly environment, conference and exhibition centers, luxurious accommodations makes dubai a prime business location.
What are the key industries driving business in Dubai?
Finance, Real Estate, Tourism, Logistics and Trade, Technology and Innovation are top industries.
