I've lived in Dubai and crisscrossed the middle east on business. You are right, Dubai is the obvious choice and that's where I was based most of the time. It would have helped if you had mentioned more details about the type of business you are into.

Dubai is a little expensive but unparalleled in certain aspects. People love to live there. It's full of talent and opportunities but also very competitive. Bahrain too is comparable in some ways and there is a lot of local talent here and it's cheaper to operate a business here.

But there real answers will depend on what is your product? Will you need many local hires? Will you need large offices? Will you need to fly in and out often? Will you be dependent on hiring expat employees?

Book a call with me and I'll help you with basic information.

Regards, Asif