Abu Dhabi: A Trip to Remember
Abu Dhabi [a-boo dah-bee], (noun.) = father of the gazelles; capital city of the United Arab Emirates.
This trip was more than just an opportunity to explore a new business landscape—it challenged us, inspired us, and brought us closer as a cohort.
Exploring Abu Dhabi’s fast-growing business scene
Abu Dhabi’s rapid economic growth and commitment to innovation was evident during our visit. We started our journey by visiting ADIO (Abu Dhabi Investment Office) where we gained insights into the Falcon Economy—the strategic vision aimed at diversifying the country’s economy away from oil dependence by investing in sectors like technology, healthcare, and tourism.
ADIO’s Head of Investor Care & Products, Joe Chamoun (otherwise dubbed as “The Abu Dhabi Salesman”), showed us how committed the city is to supporting foreign investment and talent in the name of innovation.
We then dove into the UAE’s thriving startup ecosystem at HUB71, where we learned about their mission to attract and support high-potential tech startups including IdeaSouq, a start-up founded by MBA‘22J alumna Awa.
The sheer scale of resources and mentorship available to startups really highlighted Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a global tech hub. Conversations with founders and investors shed light on the practical challenges of scaling businesses in the region, from navigating regulatory landscapes to building cross-border partnerships.
Perhaps the most interesting part of the trip was working on a real consulting project for Ciba Health, a growing healthtech company founded by Dr. Innocent Clement. We were tasked with developing a market entry and expansion strategy for the GCC by analysing market dynamics, identifying strategic partners, and pitching our recommendations. The project pushed us to think critically, collaborate effectively, and refine our problem-solving skills.
Beyond company visits, our fireside chats with MIM and MBA alumni working in the UAE provided invaluable perspectives.
From them, we learned how the region thrives on relationship-building and strategic networking, leaving many of us to reflect on our own career aspirations and how we can cultivate our own networks.
Culture, adventure, and unforgettable moments
But what made this trip truly special went beyond the business world.
First we visited Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, where we traced the city’s evolution from a humble tribal village to a global metropolis. We also visited Mirzam Chocolates, a local handcrafted chocolaterie infused with flavours inspired by the region’s spice trade history—think saffron, cardamom, and rose petals.
And then came the desert safari, the highlight of the trip. Racing over sand dunes was exhilarating, but the real magic began as the sun set and we gathered under the stars to share a meal, watch mesmerising performances and take in the vastness of the desert.
It was one of those rare moments where time seemed to slow down, allowing us to bond as a cohort and truly appreciate the adventure we were on.
Gratitude and looking ahead
A huge thank you to Agata Chojnacka, Professor Chiara Spina, Dr. Innocent Clement of Ciba Health and everyone else who made this experience unforgettable. This trip reminded me why I came to INSEAD—not just to learn about the world, but to experience it alongside incredible people.
Now, as I start on the Singapore leg of my INSEAD journey, I carry with me new perspectives, stronger friendships, and memories that will last long after my time as MIM’26.
