Receptionists urgently needed who are happy to work on the beach…

We’ve tracked down a select group of receptionists who live the life most of us would only dream of…. they apply their trade…. in some of the most sort after holiday destinations in the world… and enjoy all the perks that come with it.

Not all receptionists crave the hustle and bustle of the tube and bendy bus world which is London these days, some have headed off for a more relaxing atmosphere.

This section will explore a new beautiful destination each month and we start with Dubai; haled as the most cosmopolitan and international city outside London….

Since 1973, Dubai is one of 7 Emirates that make up the ‘United Arab Emirates’.  (An ‘Emirate’ is a political territory that is governed by an Arab Monarch called an Emir.)  The UAE culture is traditionally Islamic, but tolerant and welcoming to foreigners who do not practice the Islamic religion. 

Alcohol is served in hotels and the dress code is liberal. 

The language in and out of the work place is English (although the official language of the country is Arabic). English is the common ground between the many nationalities.  The majority of road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc are in both Arabic and English.  A great deal of respect however, is given to local customs and norms, including refraining from wearing ultra revealing fashion and seeking permission for photography – it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women.  Arabic cuisine is a variety of Moroccan, Egyptian, Afghan, Lebanese, Tunisian and many other middle eastern countries; and vendors throughout the city sell fresh juices and hot pita sandwiches.

The government of Dubai has a policy of tolerance towards non-Muslims, and the City has Hindu temples, a Sikh Gurudwara and in 2001 a parcel of land was donated for 5 Christian congregations to build churches.  Last year the population grew to 1.5 million, a growth rate of approximately 24,000 people a month.  The climate is sub-tropical, with at least 6 months of perfect weather.  The height of the summer reaches 48 degrees Celsius and the coldest it gets in winter is 10 degrees Celsius.

FOH have been fortunate to interview 4 Reception Managers about their experiences living and working in Dubai – see below for inspiration!