I start my MBA in september. I have no consulting background - mostly retail and ecommerce product management. How do I use my time now?

Question

Title. Wanna end up in Dubai since I live here right now / have the Golden Visa - don't speak any Arabic though. Would love insights on how to break into an english speaking / local language optional office. I am gonna be doing my MBA in Europe, and would love to make the most of it.

Current school options: IE / HEC / ESADE, leaning towards IE bc it's 40,000 euros cheaper than HEC

Answer 1

Hi there,

In the upcoming months, I would recommend to do the following:

0. Prepare your MBA application

1. Prepare your resume for consulting:

It is essential to start with this before networking, as recruiters or your consulting network may ask for it to help you out. It will also be valuable for your MBA.

2. Prepare your story:

Prepare your pitch (professional summary) and fundamental questions such as: Why consulting? Why BCG/BAIN/Mcksinsey?

3. Network

Connect with recruiters at the target offices you want, attend pre-mba events, and get to know the firms. You do not need to "sell yourself" here; you must understand the firms and the recruiters.

4. Apply for pre-MBA internships

There are pre-MBA internships that can get you an FT offer after the MBA. Not all offices offer it, so please revise websites and talk to recruiters. Do this step if you have already been accepted into the MBA and if you have steps 1 and 2 ready. In this case, you need to prepare for casing too.

Best,

Carlos

Answer 2

Hey! I came from the same position having worked in tech startups pre-MBA, but used the MBA to break into McKinsey London. Happy to provide some guidance based on my experience - also the ME offices are the one's hiring like crazy!

1. Networking

Pre-MBA:
- Connect with consultants on LinkedIn from MBB and other top firms in Dubai, prioritising alumni from your potential schools IE, HEC, or ESADE.
- Conduct short informational chats to learn about the Dubai market, application tips, and office culture. You may even be able to get a referral all going well.
During MBA:
- Leverage your school’s alumni network for referrals.
- Attend firm events, coffee chats, and school treks.
- Get involved in consulting clubs—organising events boosts visibility

2. Case Prep

During MBA:
- Join consulting club prep sessions.
- Learn about the application processes (Casing + Fit of different firms)
- Sharpen mental math and business fundamentals.
- Practice live cases regularly with peers.
- Get feedback from alumni and current consultants.

3. Make sure you enjoy the MBA

The MBA is as much about building connections, long lasting friendships and learning as much as it is about securing a great job.
Classmates of mine that were completely obsessed with getting MBB from the start were the one's who missed out - its all about balance.

Happy to chat further - feel free to DM!

Will

Answer 3

Hey there 🙂, since you're starting your MBA in September and aiming for a consulting career in Dubai, use this time to build your consulting toolkit—practice case studies, dive into consulting frameworks online, and start networking with professionals and alumni, especially those connected to Dubai's market; your retail and ecommerce product management experience can be a strong asset in consumer or digital transformation projects, and if you're leaning towards IE for its cost-effectiveness and network, it's a great move, so consider reaching out for mentorship or even short-term projects to boost your profile, and remember, every bit of preparation now sets you up for success later. Best, Alessa 😇

Answer 4

Hi! So you have two things you want to do 2 things:
1. Work in consulting at the end of your MBA
2. End up in Dubai again

Securing an interview and showing your interest

Begin Networking with Dubai firms:
> Dubai Consulting Firms: Research firms with English-speaking environments in Dubai (e.g., the Big 3, boutique consultancies, local firms). LinkedIn is your friend! I'd even pay for a premium to cold email HR people to say you're starting your MBA and you'd be keen to connect. If you are proactive, and you make the effort, you will get a foot in the door.

Also connect with consultants, especially those who've made career transitions or those fresh from an MBA and who joined a consulting firm.
Informational interviews are key. Ask about their career paths, what skills are valued, and the Dubai office culture.

> Reach out to IE/HEC/ESADE Alumni:

Connect with alumni working in consulting in Dubai. Your university's alumni network is invaluable. Attend any pre-MBA networking events. Join the linkedin groups if you can, they usually post events and since you're already in Dubai you can go. Most consulting firms host info sessions with schools.

> Dubai Business Community: Engage with Dubai-based business professionals online and (if possible) in person. Ask your friends.

Upskilling and prepping for cases:
Most MBAs will offer a form of structured hiring process with consulting firms and most of the MBBS will start recruiting in January, February or March (or round about), so it would help if you started prepping beforehand (considering you need about 20 solid cases to be ready)
> Begin reading about case interviews and the different types for different firms here on prep lounge
> Reach out to me to begin your process, my first session is free :)

I was hired at Mck post my MBA and I am also part of the Oxford MBA Alumni council, so I know alot about recruiting from MBAs (AMA).