Dubai-it: Juliet McCann Reflects on 19 Years of Transformative Leadership and Ambition in the City of the Future
Juliet McCann, a British expat, arrived in Dubai in 2007, bringing with her a passion for decisive action and innovative thinking. Nearly two decades later, she reflects on her journey of leading teams and launching landmark projects, embodying the spirit of what she now describes as “Dubai-it.”
A Recognition of Excellence
Colleagues refer to McCann as “Ms Today,” a testament to her remarkable ability to work at a pace that often leaves others in awe. This drive for swift and effective action has only intensified since her arrival in Dubai. Recently, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the “Dubai-it” initiative. This initiative aims to instill Dubai’s work philosophy in future generations. Sheikh Mohammed defined “Dubai-it” as achieving extraordinary results with excellence in record time, emphasizing the city’s rapid transformation from desert to global metropolis.
The launch of this initiative resonated with long-term residents who have witnessed Dubai’s evolution and felt its ambitious spirit permeate their personal lives. McCann expressed that she had been “doing Dubai-it all along,” emphasizing that she could not envision thriving in any other city. She noted the city’s energy, where the prevailing mindset is not whether something can be done, but rather how quickly it can be accomplished.
Built for Dubai’s Pace
Before relocating to Dubai, McCann worked in the UK and spent several years in Spain selling real estate. In 2007, she sought a reputable company and discovered The First Group, a relatively new developer in Dubai. McCann prioritized her reputation and was drawn to the professionalism of the company.
Her decision proved fruitful, as she spent the next 15 years with The First Group, starting in tele-sales with a small team. Over time, she ascended to management, ultimately leading a diverse team of over 150 tele-sales representatives. McCann described her experience in Dubai as unparalleled, noting that the city’s multicultural environment far exceeded her previous experiences in London. She worked alongside individuals who had relocated to Dubai for various reasons, many overcoming significant challenges to pursue new opportunities.
Among her notable projects was the Ciel Tower in Dubai Marina, the world’s tallest hotel. McCann’s role quickly evolved from property sales to team leadership, where she focused on motivating and empowering her team.
The Dreamers and Doers
McCann’s commitment to understanding her team’s motivations and driving their success deepened her appreciation for Dubai’s capacity to reward ambition. Many of her team members were supporting families or pursuing education, demonstrating a strong desire to succeed. She expressed pride in witnessing their growth within the company and their eventual ventures into entrepreneurship.
McCann became the first female Vice President at her company and currently serves as a Talent Acquisition Specialist in luxury real estate, proudly identifying herself as a “biggest ambassador for Dubai.” She highlighted the city’s unique ability to create opportunities and transform lives, asserting that no other place in the world actively supports such ambition.
Resilience Through Crises
When McCann arrived in the UAE, the world was on the brink of a significant economic downturn. Despite the challenges, her team persevered in telesales, adapting their strategies while remaining focused on potential customers. McCann reflected on her company’s philosophy during this period, noting that while others retreated, they pivoted and continued to close sales, emerging from the downturn even stronger.
This resilience was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as during recent regional conflicts. McCann observed a strong sense of commitment and pride among residents in response to the UAE’s defense capabilities. She emphasized the forward-thinking nature of the country’s leadership, which has plans for various eventualities.
Her trust in the UAE’s leadership reinforces her belief that Dubai is the city of the future. McCann noted that the UAE successfully navigated the global downturn and pandemic more swiftly than many other nations, fostering a sense of pride among its residents.
The Future is Here
As McCann reflects on her nearly two decades in Dubai, she sees her future firmly rooted in the city. She believes that Dubai is a place where ambition knows no bounds. She encourages others seeking to make something of their lives to consider relocating to Dubai.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-10 17:39:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk