I worked as manager in the 2nd largest bank in Dubai. In Corporate Banking.
Got called up into a room by the big boss. HR was there.
You guys know the rest of the story.
What is funny is that I called a couple of clients to tell them that I won’t be able to make it to the meeting that was booked for tomorrow. Because the calendar was already booked. And one of the clients goes “Oh. Who’s gonna take care of our account?”
Seriously? How insensitive can you be? Someone’s calling to tell you that they cannot join a meeting because they lost their job and that’s the first thought that comes to your head?
Anyways, I was told not to make a scene in the office when I’m leaving. I asked my colleagues for a small shopping bag, so that I can pack all the stuff from my desk.
I feel a little okay. Because the first time this happened to me was when I worked for the 3rd largest bank during COVID. Lost my job in October 2020 and managed to get a job in December 2022. 26 months without a job. Managed to save a little. So don’t worry about me. I’m a big boy and I think I’ll be fine.
My only hope is that I don’t have to wait another 26 months.
My friend always told me that there is no recession until the day we lose our job. Oh well, it’s officially day 1 of the recession (according to me). Screw everyone who are trying to spin a narrative that UAE is fine. It’s not!