I'm applying for the Associate role, and I see the only option in the UAE to be in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi has multiple openings, while Dubai has none.
I want to be in the Dubai location. Wondering if the recruitment pipeline is for both offices or if the Dubai office is at capacity? I'd love to hear from anyone who has visiblity over the region.
If Dubai is not listed while Abu Dhabi is, assume there is no active Associate opening in Dubai unless McKinsey recruiting tells you otherwise.
But this is exactly what networking is for!
Speak with current consultants in Dubai and ask whether the office is hiring, whether Abu Dhabi and Dubai share a recruiting pipeline, and whether internal movement between the offices is realistic.
This kills two birds with one stone: You get critical insider intelligence that a generic Q&A cannot provide AND you build relationships that can improve your application chances and potentially lead to a referral.
Also speak directly with recruiting. Do not assume that applying to Abu Dhabi places you into a Dubai pipeline or that you can transfer immediately after joining.
If Dubai is essential, wait for a suitable opening or broaden your applications to other firms with active Dubai recruitment.
If Dubai isn’t showing as an application option, I’d assume there simply isn’t an active opening for that office right now rather than assuming your application would automatically be considered for Dubai. Office capacity and hiring needs can change throughout the cycle.
You can still apply to Abu Dhabi and mention your Dubai preference when speaking with recruiting, but I wouldn’t rely on an internal transfer before joining. If Dubai is your priority, I’d also network with the Dubai office and keep monitoring new openings.
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
For more junior roles - in my experience the openings are fairly accurate. But the only person who can give you a straight answer is HR - best to apply and then clarify this with them.
