Why work in Dubai?

The Burj Al Arab, the famous luxury hotel that's also a Dubai landmark.

If you're clueless about working in Dubai, here's an interview with Malaya, who's been working in Dubai as an architectural consultant for 2 years and 10 months.

Why work in Dubai?
Malaya: Mainly because there are a lot of building activities here. There are many things to do design & construction wise. Cranes everywhere. It's an open city and investors are quite confident to invest. This gives a lot of opportunities for projects.

The offer is relatively good and there is opportunity to travel (up to you really). There is also this opportunity to mingle with different cultures, be exposed to different kinds of work environments, learn new building systems & design approaches. The last reason is actually typical to all countries outside your homeland.

Why not work in dubai?
Malaya: I don't see any reason not to work here unless of course the offer is not good enough for you to give up whatever job and benefits you have in the Philippines. One sad thing about living here though is the continuing rise in accommodation costs - rent. Cost of bedspace here is equivalent to a month's rent for a studio in the Philippines.

How do I apply for work in Dubai?
Malaya: Once you've updated your CV, you can do four things:
1 - Look for jobs and firms in the internet and apply online.
2 - Go to a reliable recruitment agency.
3 - Ask friends working here if they know job openings with good offers.
4 - Come here as a tourist and do your jobhunt. This however requires bigger investment and can be quite stressful, but you'll have an edge over the ones applying from the Philippines because you are already here.

Any tips for those who aspire to work here?
Malaya: Like any other jobhunt, the way to go is accept jobs with your career path in mind. It cannot be just about the money. By the way, It's nicer to come here during the winter season (December to April) so you won't be shocked by the heat.

What's you lifestyle like in Dubai?
Malaya: My lifestyle is quite simple. Work 5 days a week (Saturday to Wednesday) and enjoy the weekends. Leisure can range from sleeping, reading, doing spur of the moment activities, picture taking like a tourist, going to the beach, dinner with friends. If I have some spare energy, I treat myself to learning something new - whatever that is.

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For the other architects in Dubai who may wish to share their experience and tips, you can add by posting in the comments section :)