Hi all How does the consulting scene differ in the Middle East vs older/ more established offices such as London/ New York? I’ve heard that: The types of cases/ work carried out in the Middle East is not representative of the typical work consulting firms do in more developed markets and that as a consequence, exit opportunities can be limited The culture is much worse in comparison to the more reputable American and London office Are the above true? Thanks

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Anonymous A

on Aug 25, 2020

Global

Consulting in Middle East

Hi all

How does the consulting scene differ in the Middle East vs older/ more established offices such as London/ New York? I’ve heard that:

The types of cases/ work carried out in the Middle East is not representative of the typical work consulting firms do in more developed markets and that as a consequence, exit opportunities can be limited
The culture is much worse in comparison to the more reputable American and London office

Are the above true?

Thanks

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Top answer

Deleted user

on Aug 25, 2020

Dear A,

1. The main difference for Middle East projects is that there is a little specification of Government related projects and market sizing.

At COVID times it might be added cases on restructurisation and digitisations.

2. Regarding the office culture.

I've made very vast answer on that topic here https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/office-culture-in-me-offices-7322

I have helped sevelal mentees to get the offers in the Middle East, so if you need any help, advice or insights, feel free to reach out.

Best,
André

1 comment

Anonymous B

on Aug 25, 2020

Hey Andre, good post but I disagree with classifying McK as a 'boutique' in Dubai. It is one of the largest offices in the region with 200-300 consultants

Antonello

Coach

on Aug 31, 2020

McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi, in addition to the exhaustive reply of Andre, I say that the trend in more established countries is focusing on specialized practices (e.g. implementation, operations, digital, ...), while in emerging countries like ME strategic projects are more frequent.

Best,
Antonello