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Question about big 4 middle east.

Hi, I have a question about the graduate program of big 4 middle east, more specifically in gulf countries. 

- when do applications normally start in October or april, mai and june? 

- what is the timeline for the whole interview process? If I submit my application today, after how many days I can I get approximately the technical interview? 

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Top answer
Hagen
Coach
edited on Sep 07, 2025
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

  • First of all, I would strongly advise you to research your target firms' career landing pages, and if you don't find the information, reach out to their recruiting department to know for sure.
  • Moreover, generally speaking, consulting firms in the Middle East hire on a rolling basis, even though the starting dates may come in batches.
  • Lastly, the overall timeline for the interview process depends on a few factors, so it's unfortunately impossible to give a precise answer to it. What is the reason for your question, are you in a rush?

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

on Sep 07, 2025

I'm a Big 4 Manager – Dubai

Our new graduate hires are onboarding in phases. One batch is starting over the next four weeks, and another is scheduled for early next year. I’m not fully certain whether the candidates for next year have already been selected or if hiring is still ongoing for that batch.

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Mariana
Coach
on Sep 06, 2025
xMckinsey | Consulting and Tech | 1.5h session | +200 sessions | Free 20-min introductory call

Hello there,

That’s an important question, ask directly to HR so you don’t miss any date as they may vary from office to office.

Best,

Mari

Evelina
Coach
on Sep 08, 2025
EY-Parthenon (7 years) l BCG offer holder l 7+ years coaching l 30% off first session l free 15' intro call l LBS

Hi there,

Big 4 graduate program timelines in the Middle East (UAE, Saudi, Qatar, etc.) can vary slightly by firm and country, but here’s what you can expect:

1. Application windows:

  • Main intakes are typically in October (for a September start the following year) and again in spring (April–June) for additional roles depending on demand.
  • Some offices also post rolling openings, so it’s worth checking each firm’s careers site regularly.

2. Process timeline:

  • After you apply, expect an initial screening (CV + online tests like aptitude or game-based assessments)
  • If you pass, you’re usually invited to a first-round interview or assessment centre within 2–4 weeks, though sometimes it can be quicker
  • The technical/competency interview often comes 1–2 weeks after the first stage. In total, from application to technical interview, plan for 3–6 weeks depending on the firm’s speed and the volume of applicants

The process can be slower in the Gulf compared to Europe, so don’t worry if it takes longer than expected – following up politely with HR after 2 weeks is normal

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out when the time comes!

Best,

Evelina

Alessa
Coach
on Sep 08, 2025
30% September discount | xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | xRB | >400 coachings | feel free to schedule an intro call

Hey there :)

For Big 4 graduate programs in the Gulf, the main cycles usually open around October (for start dates the following year) and again in spring around April–June if they have additional needs. Timelines vary by country and service line, but typically after submitting you’d get an online assessment within 1–2 weeks, then an HR/behavioral round, and the technical or case-style interview usually follows within 3–4 weeks. So if you apply now, you can expect a technical round in about a month, give or take.

best,
Alessa :)