Paul Drummond, a 33-year-old British national, is managing director of the exclusive members club Quintessentially Middle East and commercial director of Quintessentially worldwide. He has lived in Dubai for three years. Where do you live and why?
I live along Sheikh Zayed Road opposite the Fairmont Hotel. I love being in the heart of Dubai and I adore cityscapes —Sheikh Zayed road has one of the best in Dubai.
What advice would you give to a tourist? Any must-dos?
Get yourself a car tour, which takes you round the city in three hours. My aunts did this when they recently visited Dubai and they found it really interesting because it took them to lots of places they wouldn’t have visited otherwise.
What advice would you give to a visiting businessman?
Don’t worry about cultural issues or business methodology—Dubai is a sophisticated and very advanced city which is constantly evolving and improving day by day.
What and where have you had your most memorable meals? Peppercrab at the Grand Hyatt. It has the best and freshest crab I’ve ever tasted. I also recommend Mezzanine in Grosvenor House—it has a great European menu and the chef patron, Gary Robinson, is very talented.
Where would you take a client if you want to wow them?
I’d take them to Sho Cho’s because it has a relaxed, chilled environment but is also upmarket and stylish. The food is great as well and there’s a nice alfresco bar.
What do you miss about Dubai when you’re away?
The gorgeous weather. It hardly ever rains in Dubai!