Before moving to Dubai, I thought I understood cultural competence. As a conflict-resolution professional, I trained others in neutrality, active listening, and navigating cross-cultural dynamics. I mediated emotionally charged disputes and facilitated sensitive conversations. I believed my practice was inclusive, respectful, and unbiased.
But Dubai challenged me, not overtly, but subtly, through rhythms I hadn’t previously experienced. Time in Dubai doesn’t flow in quite the same way as…