Know the business districts
Most meetings happen along the Sheikh Zayed Road spine: DIFC, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai in the centre, and JLT, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City further south. They look close on a map, but moving between them at peak time can take longer than expected.
Build realistic buffers
Plan at least 30 minutes between meetings in different districts, more if crossing the city at rush hour. Lunchtime and early evening are often busiest around DIFC and Downtown.
Hourly beats ad hoc
For roadshows and multi-meeting days, one car on hourly hire removes the risk of waiting for rides. Bags and documents stay in the car, and your chauffeur can reposition while you are inside.
Tips for assistants and travel managers
- Send flight numbers so arrivals can be tracked
- Share a meeting schedule, even if provisional
- Confirm vehicle class to match the traveller’s seniority
- Agree how changes on the day will be communicated
- Set up consolidated billing for frequent travel
Intercity meetings
Abu Dhabi meetings are common. Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours each way and consider a full-day booking. See Dubai to Abu Dhabi.