Hi,
about business reasons you can talk about:
- the growing trend of consulting in ME these years
- the industry served: make a research about RB, but usually Energy, Governative, and Telco
- type of projects - more strategic than in offices of established markets: M&A, large investments, growing strategies are very common in ME, while e.g. in Europe operations efficiency, cost-cutting, advanced analytics, and implementation are more frequent

Hope it helps,
Antonello

Agree with all the previous posts. Chech out here >> https://www.mckinsey.com/middle-east, since you will have relevant information like the work of the McKinsey GLobal Institute in Smart Cities, etc.

I would enphasize the importance of having a personal connection to ME, to ensure that you are comitted to stay for some time there.

Cheers!

Hi,

Here are some other ideas that you can use to structure your thoughts:

• You can start with general facts about the local office. Something like “Sidney office is the fastest growing McKinsey office worldwide.”
• If you have an interest in a particular industry or client this may also be a great reason. For example, BCG can be the only consulting firm working with airlines in your region.
• You may address the different Global opportunities and office initiatives. E.g. international staffing can be a good opportunity to learn about business in a particular country
• Try to combine professional and Non-business rational. If you have friends working in that company, don’t forget to mention them and what you’ve learned from their experience.
• You may use your other personal experiences like working with this BCG, it's deliverables or as it's client
• You can provide your personal experience of working with McKinsey Alums
• McKinsey women / LGBT / etc. initiatives

Good luck!

Hi Anonymous,

I would consider the following options:

• direct connection with the area (you worked or studied there, have friends in the area, etc)
• interests for specific sectors where there are more opportunities in ME (eg government projects)
• higher growth or opportunities in the office in that region

Best,

Francesco