Embracing New Horizons in Dubai
Rajae Hakim, a Moroccan-Spanish national, embarked on a transformative journey when she relocated to Dubai in 2023, seeking greater opportunities. What she discovered surpassed her expectations, revealing a vibrant city teeming with possibilities and a unique cultural tapestry. At 34, Hakim embodies the spirit of the 'Dubai-it' philosophy, which encourages individuals to dream big, act decisively, and achieve exceptional results. Reflecting on her initial impressions, she noted, "I was expecting the city to offer me international exposure, but I definitely didn’t expect all the things Dubai has to offer." Today, she celebrates three years of residence in this dynamic metropolis, a journey that has profoundly reshaped her personal and professional life.
Originally hailing from Morocco, Hakim moved to Spain during her childhood and pursued a degree in law and taxation. As she advanced her career in taxation law, she yearned for an environment that would provide global exposure. After considering various cities, including New York and London, she discovered the implementation of corporate tax in the UAE, which became a compelling reason for her to migrate to Dubai. Arriving with a job offer from a global multinational corporation, she quickly acclimated to her new surroundings, beginning her role the very next day after her arrival.
Transformative Experiences in a Global City
Hakim was pleasantly surprised by the international work culture that flourishes in Dubai, where professionals from over 180 nationalities converge. "The most surprising part was just how international the work culture is," she remarked, emphasizing the enriching diversity that defines the city. Beyond the professional landscape, Dubai's allure lies in its accessibility to various experiences. Hakim shared instances of spontaneous invitations to cultural events, such as attending the Dubai Opera or mingling with sports stars like Rory McIlroy, highlighting how the city fosters connections and opportunities that are often unimaginable elsewhere.
Over time, Dubai's ever-evolving environment has inspired Hakim to adopt a proactive 'Dubai-it' mindset, encouraging her to explore entrepreneurship. After two years of professional growth, she founded Altair Tax, an international tax advisory firm, embodying her belief that anything is possible with dedication and hard work. Furthermore, her relocation has spurred personal growth, leading her to engage in various sports activities like golf, boxing, and swimming, contributing to her positive outlook and resilience.
As she reflects on her journey, Hakim remains focused on the future, determined to expand her business between the UAE and Europe. She emphasizes the importance of patience and thoroughness in her endeavors, stating, "I want to take it step by step and do things properly. I don’t want to rush anything." With the magic of Dubai continuing to influence her life, she concludes, "The magic of Dubai is real, but you have to persevere. It’s for people who are willing to persevere." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of her journey—a testament to the transformative power of resilience and ambition in a city that continuously inspires its residents to reach for their dreams.
As reported by emirates247.com.
