At the InterContinental Dubai Marina, concierge Roger Geadah draws on 12 years of experience to guide visitors to the top sights and best meals in this ever-evolving Mideast metropolis. Here he offers expert guidance for business travelers.
What should business travelers pack when visiting your city?
“Dubai is a warm and sunny place, so sunscreen and good sunglasses are very useful. Offices, meeting spaces and restaurants often have full-blast air conditioning; bring a light jacket.”
What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?
“Marina Social, (Bay Central Dubai Marina Al Sufouh Road; Ph: Ph: 04 446 6664) our gourmet restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton, offers fine dining and a prime view on Dubai’s Marina. For a lounge atmosphere, exquisite pan-Asian cuisine and a relaxing terrace, Asia Asia (6th Floor, Pier 7, Dubai Marina; Ph: 04 276 5900) is a great venue for a business dinner.”
What’s one thing that always surprises guests about your hotel?
“The biggest surprise is that our hotel is located on one of the largest man-made marinas in the world. But the arty feel of our hotel also is an unexpected treat for new guests. A part of our hotel is called The Gallery because of its various works of art; the statues are favorites of visitors taking selfie photos.”
If business travelers only have a few hours for leisure, what must they see?
“If you can break away from our captivating city, a desert safari offers a complete change of scenery. Have fun dune bashing or opt for a relaxing safari that offers cultural insights; either way, spending a few hours in the majestic desert is a must.”
What’s the best option for outdoor exercise in your city?
“The Dubai Marina promenade offers about 5 kilometers for jogging, and the nearby beach is a perfect spot for a morning stroll.”
Business know-how
Concierge Roger Geadah’s top tips for getting business right in Dubai:
Tip 1: Greet people you meet individually and with a gentle handshake. But men should avoid initiating handshakes with women unless invited to do so; verbal greetings between men and women are considered more appropriate.
Tip 2: Business meetings often take place in informal settings such as restaurants or cafés. Refrain from jumping directly into business topics; take a bit of time to discuss light matters such as the scenery on the way to the appointment or the bit of Arabic greeting phrases you have learned.
Tip 3: Don’t sit with crossed legs showing the soles of your shoes, as it could be considered offensive.
