Busy workdays often leave little room for extra meetings, but lunchtime provides a natural space to connect without adding another slot to the calendar. A lunch strategy built around simple habits and thoughtful planning supports stronger client relationships, clearer communication, and better team bonding.
The setting, tone, and pace matter just as much as the topic being discussed at a lunch in Dubai.
Choose the right place:
A quiet and comfortable place with good service helps set a steady pace for the meeting. Pick somewhere that’s easy to reach for both parties. Avoid spots that are too noisy, crowded, or slow with orders. Restaurants that accept reservations or offer table service tend to make the process more efficient. Familiarity with the menu also saves time and avoids long decision-making at the table.
Stay clear and focused:
Let the guest know in advance what the purpose of the lunch is. Keeping the conversation focused helps manage the flow and avoids unrelated topics that stretch the meeting longer than planned. When everyone at the table has a shared idea of what will be discussed, the meal becomes more productive. Keeping a few talking points in mind ensures nothing is missed.
Set a comfortable tone:
Greet the guest warmly and ease into the conversation before getting into the main topics. A few minutes of light discussion about general topics like recent events or the food itself can set a comfortable tone. Avoid getting into heavy topics too soon, and keep personal questions respectful and professional. A good balance between work talk and general conversation helps keep the meal enjoyable and productive.
Watch the time without rushing:
Keep an eye on the time, especially during weekdays. Aim to start wrapping up a few minutes before the scheduled end to avoid rushing through the final points. Respect for time reflects positively on both planning and communication. Let the client or colleague leave without feeling pressed or delayed in their own schedule.
End with a clear follow-up:
At the end of the lunch, briefly summarise any key points or next steps. A quick message or email after the meeting helps confirm what was discussed and shows continued interest in the matter. Small details like this keep the connection strong and the conversation active.
