Chances for MBB Dubai internships

Question

Hello,

I wanted to ask about my chances to land MBB interviews in Dubai for next year's summer internships.

I currently have a 3.8/4.0 GPA in economics at a top Ivy League (think Columbia/Wharton/Yale). I interned two times at a BIG 4 firm in Strategy and Transactions in a Middle Eastern country. I have strong leadership activities, including founding my own non profit and raising a lot of funds, in addition to multiple leadership roles on campus (including consulting roles like project leader).

I'm also middle eastern (not from the gulf though) and I speak fluent arabic.

How do you see my chances? Also, is my GPA sufficient - what do MBB firms in Dubai look for in terms of GPA? Finally, do I need referrals in my case to apply or do I just apply directly through the website?

Sorry for asking a lot of questions. Thank you so much!

Answer 1

Hi there,

You have a very strong profile, which should enable you to move through screening in the region.

I would always advise you to get a referral, even with a strong profile, for two reasons:

It still pushes your application
The networking efforts allow you to get some insights into the current recruiting situation and can help you time your application

All the best,

Florian

Answer 2

hey!

You def have a strong profile for MBB. Your GPA is more than competitive; MBB generally values GPAs above 3.5, so you meet that criterion well. Your background in Strategy and Transactions at a Big 4, combined with leadership roles and founding a nonprofit, will appeal to MBB firms as it demonstrates both analytical skills and a proactive, impact-driven mindset.

Also, being a fluent Arabic speaker is a plus for Dubai offices, where cultural and language alignment is valued, particularly in client-facing roles. While referrals are helpful, they’re not strictly necessary in your case. However, a referral from someone within MBB could still increase your visibility. If you have connections at MBB, consider requesting referrals; otherwise, applying directly should be sufficient given your impressive profile.

Best, Alessa

Answer 3

You have a good chance of getting interviews!

Your profile aligns well with what MBBs are looking for. Be sure to network with all the firms and apply through referrals to increase your visibility.

However, your profile alone won’t give you an additional advantage once you start the interviews. To improve your chances, prepare thoroughly for both fit and case interviews. Consider working with other consultants or a coach to maximize your success.

You can learn more about the MBB recruiting process from an insider perspective here:

MBB Hiring Hacks - Behind the Curtain Secrets

Good luck!

Alberto

—

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

Answer 4

In addition to what other colleagues have shared, I'll also add that having high-quality coffee chats with at least ~5 consultants at each of your target offices can increase your chances of getting selected for interviews.

Happy to connect you with consultants who are open to chatting.

Answer 5

Hey there,

From an academic point of view and being from a prestigious university, this definitely counts in your favour!

Also, definitely get a referral (preferably at a senior level). This would help give your application more weight to passing screening.

Then make sure you don't neglect other aspects of your application and CV. Ensure you still show list of impact and achievements throughout your career! And make sure you apply for the right level role (as applying for one too high ambitiously is also another sure way to get rejected)

All the best! :-)