The Decision: Not Made Lightly

Let’s start with the obvious: moving yourself and your business is a big deal. It’s not something you do on a whim. For me, it was the result of years of thinking, planning, and weighing the pros and cons. Canada has been good to me. It’s where I started my tech career, built my company, and raised my family. Jamaica is my heritage and always part of my story. I’ve also lived and worked in the USA, Sierra Leone, and, most recently, Ghana. Each place has shaped my outlook and my approach to business.

But as my business grew and the world changed, I started to see new possibilities—and new challenges.

I’ve always believed in looking ahead, not just at what’s comfortable or familiar. The world is more connected than ever, and business doesn’t stop at borders. I wanted to put myself and my company in a place where we could keep growing, learning, and reaching new markets. That’s what led me to Dubai.

Business Growth: Why Dubai Makes Sense

1. A True Global Hub

Dubai isn’t just a city in the Middle East. It’s a crossroads for business, trade, and innovation. When you look at a map, you see how close Dubai is to Africa, Asia, Europe, and the rest of the Middle East. Flights connect you to almost anywhere in the world within hours. For a company with clients and partners in Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, that kind of access is a game-changer.

In Canada, I was well-connected to North America and the Caribbean. But as my business expanded, I saw more opportunities in Africa, the GCC, and Asia. Dubai puts me right in the middle of those markets. It’s not just about geography—it’s about being where the action is.

2. Access to New Markets

One of the biggest reasons for the move was the chance to tap into new markets. The UAE is a gateway to the Gulf region, Africa, and South Asia. These are some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with a hunger for technology, innovation, and business solutions.

In Canada, I saw a lot of competition and a mature market. That’s not a bad thing, but it means growth can be slow and steady. In Dubai, there’s a sense of possibility. New projects, new partnerships, and new clients are always on the horizon. The business culture here is open to new ideas and quick to adapt.

3. Business-Friendly Environment

Dubai is known for making it easy to do business. The process of setting up a company is straightforward, and there are clear rules for foreign ownership, taxes, and operations. The government has invested heavily in infrastructure, technology, and support for entrepreneurs.

For someone who’s spent years navigating the paperwork and regulations in Canada and other countries, this is a breath of fresh air. Things move quickly here. If you have a good idea and a solid plan, you can get started without endless red tape.

4. Networking and Collaboration

One thing that surprised me about Dubai is how open people are to networking and collaboration. There’s a real sense of community among business owners, both local and international. Events, conferences, and meetups happen all the time. It’s easy to meet people, share ideas, and find partners.

In Canada, I had a strong network, but it took years to build. In Dubai, I’ve been able to connect with people from all over the world in a matter of months. The diversity here is incredible—people from every background, industry, and country, all working together.

5. Support for Innovation

Dubai isn’t just about big buildings and luxury. There’s a real push for innovation, especially in technology, sustainability, and smart cities. The government supports startups and established companies alike, with funding, incubators, and access to talent.

For a tech entrepreneur like me, this is exciting. I want to be in a place that values new ideas and is willing to invest in the future. Dubai is serious about becoming a leader in technology and business, and you can feel that energy everywhere.

Lifestyle: More Than Just Business

Of course, moving isn’t just about business. It’s about the kind of life you want to live. Here’s what drew me to Dubai on a personal level.

1. Quality of Life

Dubai offers a high quality of life. The city is clean, safe, and well-organised. Services work. The infrastructure is modern. There’s a focus on making life easy for residents, from healthcare to transportation to recreation.

For me, this means less time worrying about day-to-day hassles and more time focusing on what matters—my business and my well-being.

2. Diversity and Inclusion

As a Canadian and Jamaican, I value diversity. Dubai is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. People from every continent live and work here. You hear dozens of languages on any given day. This diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s real, and it shapes the way people do business and interact.

I’ve never felt out of place here. If anything, my background is an asset. People are curious, open, and eager to learn from each other.

3. Work-Life Balance

The pace of life in Dubai is fast, but there’s also a strong focus on balance. The city offers everything from world-class sports and entertainment to quiet parks and beaches. It’s easy to find time for yourself and your family, even when work is busy.

For me, this balance is important. I want to work hard and build my business, but I also want to enjoy life and stay healthy. Dubai makes that possible.

4. Safety and Stability

Safety is a big factor for anyone moving to a new country. Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world. Crime rates are low, and there’s a strong sense of order. This gives me peace of mind, both for myself and my team.

5. A Place for Families

If you have a family, Dubai is a great place to live. There are excellent schools, healthcare, and activities for kids. The city is designed with families in mind, and there’s a real sense of community.

Challenges: It’s Not All Easy

I don’t want to paint an unrealistic picture. Moving to a new country—especially with a business—comes with challenges.

1. Learning the System

Every country has its own way of doing things. Even though the UAE is business-friendly, there’s still a learning curve. You have to understand the rules, the culture, and the expectations. It takes time to build trust and credibility.

2. Building a New Network

While networking is easier here, you still have to put in the work. Relationships matter, and it takes time to prove yourself. I’ve had to start from scratch in some ways, but I see it as an opportunity to grow.

3. Adapting to Change

Change is never easy. There are moments when I miss Canada—the people, the seasons, the familiar routines. But I remind myself why I made the move: to grow, to learn, and to open new doors.

What I’ve Learned So Far

If you’re thinking about making a big move—whether for business or personal reasons—here’s what I’ve learned:

• Be clear about your goals. Know why you’re moving and what you hope to achieve.

• Do your homework. Learn about the market, the culture, and the rules before you make the leap.

• Be open to new experiences. Embrace the differences and see them as opportunities, not obstacles.

• Build your network. Relationships are everything, no matter where you are.

• Stay true to your values. Your background and experience are your strengths. Don’t try to fit in—stand out.

Looking Ahead:

Moving to Dubai wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for me and my company. I’m grateful for my years in Canada and proud of my Jamaican roots. Those experiences shaped who I am and how I do business. But growth means stepping out of your comfort zone and taking risks.

Dubai offers a unique mix of opportunity, diversity, and quality of life. It’s a place where business and lifestyle go hand in hand. For me, it’s the next chapter in a journey that started in Jamaica, grew in Canada, and now continues in the UAE—with stops along the way in the USA, Sierra Leone, and Ghana.

If you’re considering a move—whether across the country or across the world—my advice is simple: think about where you want to grow, not just where you feel comfortable. The world is full of opportunities if you’re willing to take the leap.

If you have questions about doing business in Dubai, expanding internationally, or making a big move, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned and help others on their own journey.