IMF-World Bank Joint Secretariat staff in Washington DC welcomed to the United Arab Emirates by UAE Ambassador to the United States & General Coordinator of Dubai 2003

Two highly interactive and comprehensive presentations regarding the culture and customs of the UAE were given to the Joint Secretariat staff at their headquarters in Washington DC.

"Throughout the following months the Joint Secretariat staff will be coming to Dubai in preparation for the Annual Meetings and many of them will be living here anywhere from ten days to two months. It is essential that we prepare them with information about our culture, customs, religion, and traditions so their stay in the UAE will be as comfortable as possible," commented Belselah.

Apart from information about the region, the Dubai 2003 presentation focused on informing the prospective visitors about what to expect when they arrive in Dubai. Some of the topics covered included the progress and development of the UAE and Dubai and how this area is becoming a crossroads of the global economy due to its strategic location and abounding growth.

In addition, the JS staff were given travel tips to help ease their induction into daily life in the UAE; everything from details on the weather, protocols on how to tip, what to wear and what options they have for excursions and entertainment. There was also a comprehensive section on the religious tolerance and freedom of worship that exists in the UAE, basic guidance on Islam and a note on the Thursday/Friday weekend.

Belselah noted that for many of the World Bank and IMF staff this would be their first visit to the region and letting them in on how to enjoy themselves while they are here, "is essential if they are going to really get a feel for the country and its people. The UAE is more than just a great place for business and industry; it also has some of the world's best resorts and some of the most famous international sporting events happen here in Dubai."

The presentations also included short videos with footage showcasing the major landmarks in Dubai including Sheikh Zayed Road, the creek and many other well know areas. Other invaluable information included in the presentation were hints on how to bargain in the souks and some of the cultural differences that are usually taken for granted by many long time expatriates; to shake or not to shake hands, making direct eye contact and taking pictures in the UAE.

"Letting them know what to expect was the purpose of the visit and from the plethora of questions asked I am glad we provided the JS staff with this opportunity," stated Belselah.

The Annual Meetings of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary fund were first held in Washington DC in 1946. They are hosted by an international city one year in three. The UAE and Dubai were selected because of their highly developed transportation and logistics infrastructure, growing importance as a financial hub and its established position as an oasis of opportunity.