Adam Wickersham
Director, graduate programs , Sheldon B. Lubar School of Business at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Adam Wickersham earlier this year traveled to the UAE with graduate students from the Lubar Executive MBA Program. The group visited Dubai and Abu Dabi to learn about international business practices, meet with industry leaders and experience Middle Eastern culture.
Transportation:
“Dubai International Airport is one of the easiest airports to navigate. Never any lines, and when you land you can easily orient yourself to the new time zone because the clocks on the wall are Rolexes. Taxis and Ubers are plentiful and inexpensive, but I recommend using the light rail Metro system to get around the city.”
Accommodations and food:
“Centrally located between Europe, India and Africa, the food is dynamic and diverse. If you like seafood, I recommend the Persian Gulf Seabream. But no matter how adventurous your pallet is, Dubai has something for you. I never left hungry because they just keep bringing out more and more food, each more unique than the last.”
Excursions:
“The two main cities in the UAE are Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Think of them like Washington D.C. and Las Vegas. Abu Dhabi, the capital, is filled with larger-than-life statues, gorgeous palaces and museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the new Guggenheim. And the buildings are all unique skyscrapers made of glass and bronze.
“Dubai is more of a playground with never-ending nightlife, the manmade islands of the Palm Jazeera; the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa; and the world’s first seven-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab. I highly recommend touring the ‘old city’ and walking through the gold, spice, and perfume markets. But be prepared because price negotiation is mandatory.”
Travel tip:
You don’t need to know Arabic to enjoy Dubai and Abu Dhabi. English is the primary language, and the exchange rate is favorable at 3 dinars to a dollar. When you are in Abu Dhabi, stop into the Emirates Palace and order a golden cappuccino. It’s made with real gold and was one of the best drinks I have ever had. Or get in a McLaren and ride around the Formula One track. Or head to the desert and ride a camel and eat with the Bedouins. So much to do, it’s hard to prioritize, so I just keep going back.”
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