Did you know that Unikie has already 30+ professionals working in the United Arab Emirates, the second-largest economy in the Arab world?
Today we’re talking to two of them – Tommi Raitio and Luana Rocha – to find out what it’s like to work in this high-technology hub and how Unikie supports experts who want to take an exciting step in their careers.
Coming to a Multicultural City
Unikie’s UAE office is located in the Masdar City Freezone, Abu Dhabi. Unikie’s team is extremely diverse, representing 19 different nationalities. Tommi, who works as the General Manager, is Finnish, and Luana, Unikie’s People and Talent Specialist, is Brazilian, for example.
For Tommi, this is the second time he has relocated to the UAE. Before Unikie, he worked as a Regional Director for Intel and lived in Dubai for 7 years.
“I like the region and enjoy the dynamic way of doing business here. Being able to compare relocation experiences, I think Unikie has perfected the process – everything from paperwork to housing is streamlined, making it easy for the newcomer to join the team,” says Tommi.
According to Tommi, coming to Abu Dhabi is not that big of a cultural shock. The culture supports diversity, values face to face interactions and being easily approachable.
“I feel the inclusion extends to everyone, no matter your background. Practically everyone speaks English and it’s easy to network both at work and in your free time – the environment helps in making friends and finding hobbies,” Luana adds.
Working in the AI Capital of the World
Dubbed the “AI Capital of the World”, Abu Dhabi has set its sights on becoming the world’s first AI-native city. This not only revolutionizes urban living but also creates exciting career opportunities for software professionals.
“Unikie’s expertise in cybersecurity, embedded software development, automation and system intelligence is in high demand. Our senior-level engineers help our current and future customers to build UAE’s vision for innovation and sustainability,” Tommi explains.
When the bar is set high, people also work hard and strive to do their best. In fact, because professionals specifically come to build their careers in the UAE, work is front and center for many people.
“Jobs have a major role in UAE expats’ lives. Work that is appreciated creates a sense of value, giving you satisfaction. Also, the fact that essentially everyone has a job contributes to the overall security situation; Abu Dhabi is among the safest cities in the world,” Luana assures.
Great Place for Families
When Tommi moved to UAE the first time, he brought his whole family that included two school-aged children. Today, the kids are adults with best friends all over the world.
“I think the UAE is a great place to bring children. They get to enjoy the full experience and get life-long relationships and an open outlook to the world,” Tommi thinks.
Being a major city, there is a wide range of schooling and housing options available. Unikie’s relocation package strives to find a good balance to individual needs.
“Working in Masdar City is pretty convenient, some people live so close by that they can just walk to work and don’t need to get a car. You could start your day at the customer’s office and then come to Unikie’s office to meet colleagues,” Luana explains.
Due to its location, sometimes it gets a bit hot in the UAE. However, just as countries like Finland have built their houses to meet low winter temperatures, Masdar City has sustainable infrastructure and plenty of indoor and outdoor options to choose from during all seasons.
“I’m a sports guy. During the hottest months, I adapt my life and do outdoor activities in the morning and stay in the shade during daytime. Coming from Finland, I feel that a big part of the year it is like the perfect summer day!”, Tommi concludes.
If you got interested, check out our Career stories!
