In this episode of our Cross-Border Catch-Up podcast series, Patty Shapiro (San Diego) sits down with Shirin Aboujawde (New York) to discuss the unique aspects of doing business in the Middle East, focusing on the importance of physical presence and the expat-dominated workforce. They highlight the mandatory requirements for local real estate, the distinct workweek schedules, and the necessity of having a public relations officer to interact with the government. Additionally, they cover the lack of income taxes for individuals in the UAE, the statutory benefits like “Hajj leave” and Ramadan hours, and the complexities involved in terminating expat employees, including end-of-service gratuity and visa cancellation procedures.