entry into MBB - Middle East

You’re right to assume that McKinsey would likely consider you for a Business Analyst (BA) role, Bain for an Associate Consultant (AC) role, and BCG for associate role —these are their typical entry points for candidates without an MBA or extensive professional experience, even if you’ve graduated.

1. MBB Hiring Cycles – Middle East

The next main hiring cycle is in the Fall (September–November). That said, MBB firms in the region (especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia) also recruit on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Pro Tip: Apply as early as possible within the cycle. Interview slots and offers are often made on a first-come basis.

2. Maximizing Your Chances

Here’s what you can do right now to boost your candidacy:

A. Sharpen Your CV for MBB

• Use consulting-style bullet points (action-oriented, quantifiable impact).
• Emphasize:
  • Problem-solving in your analyst roles.
  • Exposure to strategy, operations, or tech-enabled projects.
  • Leadership and entrepreneurial initiatives (even informal ones).

B. Networking

• Connect with MBB consultants (preferably ME-based) on LinkedIn.
• Request short chats to learn more—this can lead to referrals, which carry weight.
• Target alumni from your university or people with non-traditional backgrounds.

C. Prep for Case Interviews

• Start early. MBB interviews are challenging and require structured practice.
• Use:
  • Case in Point (book)
  • Preplounge / CaseCoach / Victor Cheng’s LOMS
• Practice with peers and, if possible, get coaching for mock interviews.

D. Tailor Your Application

• In your cover letter and CV, highlight why you’re transitioning from law to business, your startup experience, and your interest in the region (especially if you’re willing to relocate).

3. Alternative Entry Paths

If you don’t land MBB immediately:

• Consider applying to Tier 2 firms which can serve as a springboard.
• An MBA at INSEAD / LBS / IE / HEC with a consulting track is a great route to reapply at MBB as an Associate (post-MBA level).

Hi!

To answer your questions:

McKinsey Middle East Recruitment Timeline - Open year round
While recruitment is officially open year round, Middle East offices generally align with the global hiring cycle. This typically starts around August/September/ to match the academic calendar, especially for Business Analyst and Summer Internship positions, which are likely most relevant for you. 

But they will also probably have another cycle in the beginning of the year to take into account schools that have December year-ends. 

Again, they recruit year-round, so you can apply at anytime.

Bottom line: Apply when you are ready. 

Entry Point
Yes, as a recent graduate, you would most likely be considered for the Business Analyst role at McKinsey.

How to Strengthen Your Application/ Increase your chances of MBB

1. Build Your Network
Tap into alumni connections and professional contacts. Reach out on Linkedin. Reach out to alumni's of your school who have gone to MBB's. Have coffee with them. Ask them how they did it.

Networking is a key part of the consulting recruitment process, particularly for candidates coming in with non-traditional experience.

2. Tailor Your Application
Craft your CV and cover letter to clearly communicate your value. Emphasise how your specific experiences and background can add perspective and impact at the firm. Again use your alumni network to review your CV. 

3. Prepare for Case Interviews
Start early with structured case prep and practice cases directly from McKinsey’s website (example: https://www.mckinsey.com/careers/interviewing)

4. Practice Personal Fit Questions
Reflect on your leadership experiences, personal values, and motivations. Be ready to explain why consulting and why now and why it is the right fit for your career goals. 

5. Seek Constructive Feedback
Get input on your application from people who have gone through the process. Againnnn use your alumni network. Reach out on Linkedin. You have time now. Use it wisely.

6. Apply Strategically
Consider applying to multiple offices or firms. Needs can vary across regions, and your background may be more aligned with the priorities of certain locations.

Good luck!!!!

Hi,

The next hiring cycle typically just after the summer holiday period (end August), although they hire all year round.

Mattijs

Hi there,

Thanks for sharing your background — it sounds like you’ve had a solid start with your experience in startup operations, and your law degree adds a unique perspective that can be very valuable in consulting.

In terms of timing, MBB firms in the Middle East (particularly Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh) typically recruit on a rolling basis, with more structured cycles around April–July and September–November. Given that we’re now in early April, this is a great time to start preparing and applying.

Based on your experience level, you're right — you'd most likely be considered for the Business Analyst role at McKinsey, Associate Consultant at Bain, or Associate at BCG. These roles are designed for pre-MBA candidates and often welcome applicants from non-traditional backgrounds, including law and startups.

To maximize your chances:

• Tailor your CV to highlight transferable skills like problem-solving, analytical thinking, leadership, and impact.
• Begin reaching out for referrals — networking is especially important in the Middle East.
• Prepare for online assessments and case interviews — they’re a major part of the selection process.
• Keep an eye on roles at Tier-2 strategy firms as well (e.g., Strategy&, Oliver Wyman, Kearney) — they’re very active in the region.

Best of luck on your journey into consulting! Feel free to connect if you'd like to exchange insights.

Alessa

Hi there,

Firms in the region are recruiting on a rolling basis.

One thing to keep in mind: The region is extremely competitive (+very slow hiring at the moment) and a law degree + 2 startups might not be up to par with what MBB is looking for.

Might make sense to 

• look for other firms in the region, then work your way up
• start in your home country, move there mid-term internally if desired
• go for an MBA, then apply

All the best,

Florian