“Plan your travel bucket list – Dubai is such a central place for travelling” – Shauna O’Loane
With the fab news announced about Dubai borders being open again, we wanted to try and inspire you all today! We took the time to talk to Shauna, to discuss tips on finding work, accommodation, recommendations about life in Dubai & using Dubai as a base to do some travelling.
There have been many job redundancies in Dubai recently, so maybe now is the time to go for that dream, whether it’s finding a new role in a new industry or planning that trip of a lifetime! The world is your oyster!
What made you want to move to Dubai and how long have you lived here?
I moved to Dubai in 2015 with the original plan of staying for one year…and here I am on my fifth year! I had worked for an international consultancy in the UK and was in regular contact with the Middle East team so developed a bit of an understanding of the region. The team there did a ‘Living and working in the UAE’ video for the company website which spiked my interest and dispelled some of the myths around living here.
What was your first job ?
Marketing Coordinator for Faithful+Gould, an integrated project and cost management consultancy.
What’s your job role now?
Head of Marketing and Communications at Serco Middle East. I head up the team responsible for internal and external marketing and communications for our 4500 strong international public services company. This can be anything from rolling out a new internal communications platform to developing and delivering a PR strategy.
Any tips for girls wanting to find work?
Get connected. Connections really help here in Dubai where jobs can have thousands of applicants. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and that you have some recommendations on there.
How did you find accommodation and do you have any recommendations for first time movers?
My company provided my first month accommodation and after that I moved into a shared apartment in Dubai Marina. I recommend this to anyone new as it limits the upfront costs needed and you can get a sense of the area you like whilst getting on your feet financially.
What’s your recommendations on the best places to get your hair and make up done?
I’d recommend THT in JLT. IG: @thathairtho.tht
Favourite clothing stores?
I’m an online shopper! I love that ASOS deliver here within around a week and returns are free. I also rate Namshi for fast delivery and easy returns. If I’m in the mall I’ll always check out what Zara has instore.
@PJsEvery30Days is amazing! It’s a new concept for the UAE – a monthly pyjama subscription service with PJS and self-care treats. I’m a total PJ addict so I was hooked straight away!
@sharethelove.ae is also a Middle East version of Moonpig which is great to have over here
Favorite Ladies Night, Brunch and Ladies day?
Ladies day – Cove Beach or Nikki Beach
Ladies night – Pier 7 so you can make use of all the different restaurants and bars in one night or Ramusake
What do you do when you’re not working and partying?
I love a staycay! And when I can’t do a staycay I love a good pool day with a nice lunch and kindle in hand.
Any tips for ladies wanting to move to Dubai?
Do
Fill out your LinkedIn profile
Network. Connections are everything
Expect to work hard
Plan your travel bucket list – Dubai is such a central place for travelling
Don’t
Sign up for too many credit cards when you arrive. It can be very easy to get into debt
Underestimate the cost of living. You should come with savings