Unlocking the Secrets of Work Intimacy and Postcolonial Hierarchies in Dubai: Unveiling the Truth About Worlding the Middle East

When we think of Dubai, images of towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and extravagant lifestyles often come to mind. However, beyond its opulence and glamour, Dubai embodies a complex social and economic fabric that is deeply intertwined with postcolonial hierarchies and an intricate web of work intimacy. In this article, we delve into the depths of Dubai's corporate world to understand the dynamics shaping work relationships and how this reflects the broader concept of worlding the Middle East.

Unraveling the Concept of Work Intimacy in Dubai

Dubai's cosmopolitan landscape is a melting pot of diverse cultures, with expatriates comprising a significant portion of the population. The city thrives on its ability to attract global talent, resulting in a unique work environment where individuals from various backgrounds work closely together and forge connections that transcend geographical boundaries.

Work intimacy in Dubai goes beyond the traditional notion of colleagues simply collaborating on projects. It involves forming deep connections, building trust, and developing a sense of camaraderie that often extends beyond the workplace. This work culture is driven by the necessity of finding support systems within a foreign setting and the shared experiences of navigating an unfamiliar environment.

Western Privilege: Work, Intimacy, and Postcolonial Hierarchies in Dubai (Worlding the Middle East)

by Amélie Le Renard (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2273 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	242 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

However, work intimacy in Dubai is not without its challenges. The transient nature of the expat community leads to constant turnover and the need to build new relationships. At the same time, the presence of hierarchical structures within organizations can limit the depth of these connections, as individuals position themselves within the pecking order.

Dubai's Postcolonial Hierarchies: A Legacy of Power Struggles

The architecture of Dubai's corporate world is deeply influenced by the remnants of its colonial past. As a former British protectorate and a key player in the Arabian Gulf, the city's hierarchical structures reflect a legacy of power struggles and the dynamics of postcolonialism.

The influence of foreign powers in shaping Dubai's economy can be observed through the dominance of multinational corporations and the presence of global executives at the helm of various industries. This creates a distinct power dynamic, where expatriates often hold top managerial positions, while Emiratis may occupy roles lower down the organizational ladder.

These postcolonial hierarchies are not just limited to the workplace but permeate all aspects of society. They influence access to resources, social status, and opportunities for advancement. While efforts have been made to promote Emirati nationals within the corporate sector, the power structure remains largely skewed.

The Phenomenon of "Worlding" the Middle East

Dubai's rise as a global hub has catalyzed the phenomenon of "worlding" the Middle East. This concept refers to the transformation of a place or region into a globalized space, where economic, political, and cultural forces converge to create a distinct identity. Dubai, with its soaring skyscrapers, international workforce, and vibrant lifestyle, epitomizes this process.

The notion of worlding the Middle East extends beyond Dubai and encompasses the region's aspirations to become a prominent player on the global stage. Whether through mega-infrastructure projects, international events, or strategic alliances, countries in the Middle East seek to position themselves as economic powerhouses and cultural influencers.

However, this process of worlding is not devoid of criticisms. Critics argue that it perpetuates neoliberal ideologies and exacerbates existing inequalities. The dominance of foreign talent and the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few elite individuals undermine the socioeconomic fabric of local communities and reinforce postcolonial hierarchies.

The Road Ahead: Navigating Work Intimacy and Postcolonial Hierarchies

As Dubai continues to evolve and redefine itself, understanding the intricate dynamics of work intimacy and postcolonial hierarchies becomes crucial. Organizations must strive to foster an inclusive work environment that nurtures genuine connections, ensuring that the benefits of work intimacy reach all employees, regardless of their background or position in the hierarchy.

Additionally, efforts towards reducing the reliance on expatriate talent and promoting local workforce participation should be prioritized. Empowering Emiratis and addressing the systemic barriers they face can lead to a more equitable distribution of opportunities and contribute to dismantling postcolonial hierarchies.

In , Dubai's work intimacy and postcolonial hierarchies offer a fascinating glimpse into the complex fabric of the city's corporate world. Understanding the intricacies of these dynamics is essential for comprehending the broader concept of worlding the Middle East. By acknowledging and addressing the challenges posed by work intimacy and postcolonial hierarchies, Dubai can move towards a more equitable and inclusive future.

Western Privilege: Work, Intimacy, and Postcolonial Hierarchies in Dubai (Worlding the Middle East)

by Amélie Le Renard (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2273 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	242 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Nearly 90 percent of residents in Dubai are foreigners with no Emirati nationality. As in many global cities, those who hold Western passports share specific advantages: prestigious careers, high salaries, and comfortable homes and lifestyles. With this book, Amélie Le Renard explores how race, gender and class backgrounds shape experiences of privilege, and investigates the processes that lead to the formation of Westerners as a social group.

Westernness is more than a passport; it is also an identity that requires emotional and bodily labor. And as they work, hook up, parent, and hire domestic help, Westerners chase Dubai's promise of socioeconomic elevation for the few. Through an ethnography informed by postcolonial and feminist theory, Le Renard reveals the diverse experiences and trajectories of white and non-white, male and female Westerners to understand the shifting and contingent nature of Westernness—and also its deep connection to whiteness and heteronormativity. Western Privilege offers a singular look at the lived reality of structural racism in cities of the global South.