SiGMA Eurasia is the first iGaming expo in the Arabic region for All-in Global and we’re probably not the only ones curious about business culture, sports events, beach clubs, unmissable sights, restaurants and taxi apps.

As the #1 language service provider for the iGaming industry, we take great pride in being culturally sensitive. We have completed more than 1300 iGaming-related translation projects in Arabic, and common sense goes a long way, but it never hurts to ask a local. We have five translators and writers working with the Arabic languages, but none of them live in Dubai.

However, we have a Swedish writer who has been living there for 4 years, in addition to several trustworthy connections that are far beyond the noob level in “the city of gold”, including Humbl.ai’s Tero Paivarinta. With their help we have made a guide in 10 parts that includes some essential topics for a first-time business traveller in the UAE.

All-in Global is represented at SiGMA Eurasia by CEO Tiago Aprigio and founder Roy Pedersen.

REACH OUT TO BOOK A MEETING WITH THEM HERE

On Saturday we have a tournament lined up at Padel Town, before finding a sports bar (there are many to choose from) to watch some English Premier League and Liga Portugal.

That should be the weekend covered, because the work week in Dubai starts on Sunday, in our case with a networking event at the Aquafun Water-Park followed by Shabab Al Ahli Dubai FC vs. Al Orooba Club live at the Rashid Stadium (check Platinumlist to book – big games sell out fast), and then dinner at Karam Al Bahr.

24th and 25th February are kept for the expo and the awards show, and it’s worth to notice that Affiliate World Dubai is happening on February 26-27 at the Dubai World Trade Center.

1: What is the best way to greet someone? Both in terms of gestures and what to say.

A classic handshake is the most typical greeting but don’t go in with a death grip. If you wanna impress your local and speak Arabic, say “Salamualaykum,” meaning “peace be upon you,” or simply “Marhaba,” which is “Hi.” If they say “Salamualaykum” first, just reply with “Wa alaykum as-salam.” Among Emiratis, close friends do a cheek-kiss thing (only men, though). But don’t attempt it – unless invited.

Avoid overly casual body language, such as crossing your legs in front of locals or elders, since that is considered disrespectful and impolite. No public make-out. Holding hands is fine. Kissing? Nope.

2: Is there anything we should know about how to dress for a meeting/conference?

Always dress to impress, especially in Dubai. Dubai can be tricky with what to wear, considering the warm climate outside and the highly potent Air Conditioner inside. I recommend at least Business Casual at the conference but would go up to Smart / Business Formal.

Dubai’s pretty chill, but business events still lean formal.
Men? Blazer, smart trousers, or a full suit if you want to impress.
Ladies? Business casual works. Keep it stylish yet respectful. If there’s a networking event after, pack something sharp but not too extra. Dubai rooftops = fancy.

3: If you had to recommend one thing to see in Dubai that’s not the Burj Khalifa, what would it be? (Our subjects refused to name just one, so we’re listing all of them).

Palm Jumeirah Sunrise Walk
One of our favourite morning activities is taking a Careem ride at sunrise to the far end of the Palm Jumeirah (near Rixos, The Palm Hotel & Suites) and then strolling up to Atlantis. It’s about an hour-long walk by the ocean, offering spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab, the “fronds” of the Palm, and impressive resorts like Anantara and The Royal Atlantis. Pause for a coffee on your way, and finish with breakfast at one of Atlantis’s many buffet restaurants — Kaleidoscope being our recommended one.

Souk Al Madinat Jumeirah
We also highly recommend visiting Souk Al Madinat Jumeirah. It’s home to countless shops and restaurants, including Taverna, a must-visit if you like Greek food. My favourite beach club, Summersalt, is also located here.

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
Finally, if you’d like to escape the busier tourist areas yet still enjoy excellent food in a walkable neighbourhood, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) is well worth a visit. Prices here tend to be lower than in Dubai Marina or Downtown, and the quality can often be even better.

Alserkal Avenue
Dubai’s hipster district. Expect cool galleries, indie cinemas, concept cafés, and pop-up events. It’s where the creative crowd hangs out, far from the tourist madness.

4: Favourite restaurants?

Gastronomy at The Royal Atlantis (breakfast).
Brunch & Cake, Jumeirah Islands (breakfast).
Bubbalicious at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina (if you want a lively party atmosphere for brunch).
Attiko Dubai’s Sky Brunch (if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, with Pan-Asian cuisine and phenomenal views).
Demon Duck by Alvin Leung at Banyan Tree, Bluewaters (dinner).
Zuma (Expensive but great Japanese food with the A-list crowd).
Ravi’s (Super cheap with crazy good food. Try the mutton kadai).
3 Fils (Cosy sushi and seafood. No reservations, but totally worth the wait).

5: What is the best way to get around? Can you recommend a taxi app?

Dubai Metro is really convenient but its coverage is a little limited. Careem is the go-to taxi app. The app lets you choose between cheap taxis and luxury cars. The drivers are polite, and the prices are more than reasonable. If you’re just exploring Marina or Downtown, grab an e-scooter. No traffic stress with this one.

6: Alcohol?

Beer and alcohol is fine to have inside a hotel or in the events area. Outside drinking is not allowed and you don’t want to walk around town drunk. Take a taxi straight to your hotel from the event.

7: What about gambling?

As we could read in a recent article by SiGMA World, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority has granted 6 gambling licenses in the UAE, and the country’s first integrated casino resort is just around the corner (2027 – Wynn Casino). Until then, you won’t find any casinos or card clubs, at least not legal ones. As for online licenses it’s a waiting game for now.

8: Is there anything that would probably surprise us?

Dubai’s depth of international vibe and cultural mix are pleasant surprises. It’s common knowledge that people from all over the world live here, but it’s hard to imagine all these cultures blending so well, creating a truly unique city. You’ll also be surprised that a city with 3.7 million people can be so clean and safe.

9: Are there any big sporting events happening this week?

• Dubai Investments Green Run 23rd Feb 06:00 at Dubai Investments Park
• Dubai Games 20-23 Feb at Festival City
• Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship (WTA 1000, ATP 500) until March 1st

10: We have time to learn a few phrases. Which are the most important ones?

أين الحفلة؟ (Ayna al-ḥaflah?)
Where is the party/event?

شكرًا على وقتك (Shukran ʿalā waqtik/waqtak)
“waqtak” for male; “waqtik” for female.
Thank you for your time. 

نجتمع على العشاء؟ (Najtamʿu ʿalā al-ʿashā’?)
Shall we meet for dinner?

سعيدٌ بالتعرف عليك (Saʿīdun bi-taʿarrof ʿalayk)
“alayk” is masculine; for a female, you can say “alayki.”
I’m happy to get to know you.