SiGMA Eurasia

Schedule

Sunday, February 23

00:00 – 23:00
DELEGATES ARRIVAL

09:00 – 12:00
VIP ACTIVITY – DEEP DIVE DUBAI

10:00 – 22:00
PRE-REGISTRATION

13:00 – 16:00
ACTIVITY

18:00 – 22:00
DRINKS RECEPTION

19:00 – 23:00
SiGMA & AIBC AWARDS

19:30 – 22:30
iGATHERING DINNER

Monday, February 24

10:00 – 16:00
CONFERENCE – EURASIA 2025 – DAY 1

10:00 – 18:00
EXHIBITION – DAY 1

18:00 – 20:00
NETWORKING DRINKS

19:30 – 22:30
iGATHERING DINNER

19:30 – 22:30
iGATHERING DINNER

Tuesday, February 25

10:00 – 16:00
CONFERENCE – EURASIA 2025 – DAY 2

10:00 – 18:00
EXHIBITION – DAY 2

18:00 – 20:00
NETWORKING DRINKS

19:30 – 22:30
iGATHERING DINNER

22:00 – 04:00
SiGMA OFFICIAL CELEBRATION

Recommendations

Preparing Before Your Trip

– Make sure you have a valid passport before traveling to Dubai.
– You can check visa requirements here: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/Visa-information
– If you need to exchange money, Dubai’s currency is the dirham, abbreviated as AED.
– It’s recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover emergencies or unexpected events during your trip.
– The country’s power outlets are Type G, with three rectangular prongs. If you’re bringing electronic devices from another country, you’ll also need an adapter to connect.

During Your Trip

– Buy a SIM card in Dubai as roaming charges are extremely high.
– Dubai has only three telecom providers: Virgin Mobile, Du, and Etisalat. Etisalat is one of the largest operators in the UAE.
– SIM cards are available at the airport and in stores and outlets across Dubai.
– Dubai’s metro and buses are quick and cost-effective options for getting around the city.
– DFC – Dubai Festival City (the event location) can be accessed via RTA buses and water taxis. It’s also reachable by metro from the Creek Metro Station, 5 km away.
– The Dubai Tram operates in certain areas, mainly in the maritime zone and the Jumeirah Beach Residences.
– The RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) has an app called “Wojhati” to help you plan your route in advance, including bus and metro schedules and fare details.
– The two most popular taxi apps are Uber UAE and Careem.
– You can travel within the city by bus or rent a car, but transport options are less developed in the outskirts.
– If you plan to rent a car, you’ll need a valid international driver’s license and should be familiar with the country’s traffic laws.

– In case of an emergency while in the UAE, call:
911 for police assistance
998 for an ambulance
997 for the fire department
996 for the coast guard

– Tourists may also need the following numbers:
971 800 4438 for issues related to tourism safety
971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
971 600 545 555 for consumer issues

Make sure you also have the contact information for your hotel and the nearest embassy or consulate.

Respecting Dubai’s Culture

– Be mindful of the conservative dress code. Avoid wearing short clothing and dress modestly in public places.
– Avoid public displays of affection, as they are not tolerated in Dubai.
– Familiarize yourself with alcohol consumption laws, as drinking is only allowed in designated areas such as bars and restaurants.
– Respect local customs and traditions, and refrain from making disrespectful gestures or comments.
– Do not bring illegal drugs, as the penalties for drug-related offenses are severe.
– Note that photographing government buildings, military installations, and airports is strictly prohibited.

Areas to stay:

Dubai Festival City is a modern mixed-use area in Dubai. This district is located along Dubai Creek and is known for its combination of residential, commercial, and entertainment options. The InterContinental Hotel is directly connected to the Dubai Festival City Mall, a shopping center with over 500 stores, famous for the “IMAGINE” show featuring water, laser, light, and fire displays.

Additionally, the hotel’s proximity to Dubai International Airport makes it a convenient option for travelers.

Recommended Hotels:

Do some research on the type of hotel you want to stay in, as there are many options available, ranging from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly ones and even apartments.
From SiGMA, the recommended hotels are as follows:

i. InterContinental Dubai Festival City

ii. Crown Plaza Festival City

iii. Holiday Inn Dubai Festival City

Keep in mind that most hotels in Dubai have a dress code for bars and restaurants, so make sure to check it before going.

Restaurants:

Here are three ideal options for a business dinner in the Dubai Festival City area:

Anise
Location: InterContinental Dubai Festival City.
Description: A restaurant with live cooking stations offering an international dining experience. The atmosphere is elegant, and the service is impeccable, making it ideal for formal meetings.

Pierre’s TT
Location: Promenade Level, InterContinental Dubai Festival City.
Description: A restaurant by renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire that blends modern French cuisine with a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for impressing during business dinners.

Belgian Café
Location: Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City.
Description: A cozy spot featuring Belgian specialties such as fresh seafood and a wide selection of beers. It’s a more relaxed option but still suitable for informal business meetings.

These options combine a great atmosphere, excellent cuisine, and professionalism, perfectly tailored to your needs.