HELPFUL HINTS FOR DUBAI
Ricardo Amaral Head of Marketing GCC
As a professional in the dynamic marketing industry, I have found unique opportunities to showcase my passion for innovation and creativity. My name is Ricardo Amaral, and I am a passionate marketing professional from Portugal. I started my career in Barcelona, Spain, as a Jr. Marketing Executive, where I was able to hone my skills and gain invaluable experience. Fast forward, few years later I moved to Dubai, where I was fortunate enough to continue developing and executing successful marketing campaigns, always thinking outside the box and delivering exceptional results.
VALUABLE INSIDER TIPS
Recognizing my talent, PUMA swiftly brought me on board, where I continued to push boundaries and drive the company's marketing strategies forward. With my keen eye for detail, leadership abilities, and innovative thinking, I was eventually promoted to the role of Head of Marketing for the GCC region. In this elevated position, I continue to revolutionize PUMA GCC's marketing efforts, establishing the brand as a force to be reckoned with the region.
For those considering a similar career path in Dubai, here are some valuable insider tips:
Dubai is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, known for its opportunities and luxurious lifestyle, where “the word impossible doesn't exist in the dictionary”.
When moving to this thriving metropolis, it is important to embrace cultural awareness, understand and respecting the customs, traditions, and etiquette of the city.
Building a strong network is also crucial in Dubai, so make sure to attend industry events, seminars, and conferences to expand your connections and open doors to potential career opportunities.
Dubai's fast-paced environment requires adaptability and resilience. Embrace change, stay flexible, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone to seize the opportunities that come your way.
Dubai is set up to cater to all of your whims any time of the day or night. For example: door to door delivery of anything you can think of including food, groceries, medicines, flowers and even fuel!
Some of the cars you’ll find the Police department driving include a Lamborghini Aventador, Astin Martin One-77, Bugatti Veyron and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG –just to name a few!
While English is commonly spoken in Dubai, learning basic Arabic phrases will not only impress the locals but also facilitate effective communication within the workplace.
You are required to have a liquor license to purchase alcohol.
Dubai has a reputation as one of the safest cities to live in. There is no income tax in Dubai, however there is 5% VAT applicable on goods & services. The cost of living is relatively high. It’s not as expensive as NYC, and significantly cheaper than London but expensive nonetheless.
There are nearly 365 days of sunshine a year as well. But it hardly ever goes below 60 degrees F or 14 degrees C. And the average temperature in summers is 106 F or 41 C. It gets quite humid— your sunglasses and phone mist up as soon as you walk outside.
Being a country with so many different nationalities, Dubai is also home to multiple sport disciplines, allowing people to be able to play almost any sport you can think of – football, rugby, running, padel, cricket, yoga – among many others.
Dubai has so much to offer, from its world-class architecture to stunning beaches and bustling souks. Make the most of these experiences and allow yourself to truly embrace the vibrant lifestyle of the city.
In conclusion, my journey to PUMA GCC is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and an unrelenting drive for success in the marketing industry. For anyone considering a move to Dubai, it is a melting pot (pun intended) of cultures and nationalities, so take the opportunity to learn and appreciate the diverse community. Be open-minded and embrace the multicultural experience Dubai has to offer.