Bain - Riyadh or Dubai

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

• When applying to Bain Middle East, it is important to consider both the current hiring climate in each office and the lifestyle you would have in each location.
  • From a pure chances-of-getting-in standpoint, it is generally more competitive to apply to the Dubai office due to its larger size and the fact that it serves as the regional headquarters for the Middle East.
  • It's worth considering that lifestyle in Dubai and Riyadh are different, Dubai is considered more cosmopolitan and liberal, it's a city that attracts many expats and offers a diverse range of activities and amenities. On the other hand, Riyadh is considered a more traditional and conservative city, it may have different social norms and expectations that you should consider.
• In terms of timing, it is always a good idea to apply when you feel ready and qualified for a role. It is still important to keep in mind that consulting firms often have hiring cycles throughout the year.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

At the moment, Riyadh should be easier than Dubai given the amount of investments and consulting projects in Saudi Arabia at the moment

In terms of timing, there is a slight hiring slowdown at the moment given the state of the economy, but things are expected to improve towards the start of Q2 2023

Hi there,

Chances should be relatively similar and I would prioritize the city where I want to live the most.

All the best!

Cheers,

Florian

Hello ! 

Riyadh would be easier to get in vs Dubai for as there are less application demand, offices are more recent and have strong project demand from Saudi. 

It is a good time to apply as the new year passed (bonus were given) and there will be some movement in the office! 

Happy to help you prepare! Good Luck!

Hi there,

1) I am open to both Dubai and Riyadh offices. Purely from the higher chances of getting-in standpoint, which office should I apply to? 

Most companies are hiring more in Riyadh now. For Bain specifically, you can check internally with the person that refers you (I reported the steps for that below).

2) Also, is it a right time to apply? 

The best way to know for Bain right now (this may change quickly) is to find a referral and ask the person referring you – a referral will also increase substantially your chances to be invited, so it is a good idea to look for one anyway. 

You can find more on the steps to do so below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

▶ The Exact Steps to Get a Referral

Good luck!

Francesco

If you genuinely don't care then Riyadh is easier to get into because most people prefer Dubai.

In terms of timing, I think companies are hesitant all around right now and are waiting to see how the economy pans out over the first half of the year.

Hi there,

I agree with the others that Riyadh is probably “easier”…in a vacuum.

What else matters?

YOU

-Where you want to be

-Where your resume fits (where you've worked/lived/studied)

-Where you've networked

Hi there, 

Riyadh, but not by much. 

Needless to say, I believe it's also transparent from your question, don't make the choice solely based on this. 

Best,

Cristian