Beyond the Badge: How the Xoogler x UBQT Meetup is Forging Real Connections in Dubai's Tech Scene

In a city that never sleeps, filled with founders grinding 24/7 and parents juggling packed schedules, the simple act of showing up holds profound meaning. In an age of endless Zoom calls and digital connectivity, you might wonder if in-person events still have their magic.

Last month, we got our answer.

For our Xoogler x UBQT Summer Meet-up, a group of us fought the Dubai traffic and set aside our to-do lists to do something refreshingly simple: connect as humans. The energy was immediate. For me, it hit home when I reconnected with my former colleague, Amir. I hadn't seen him since he left Google back in 2013—twelve years ago! Yet, the conversation flowed as if no time had passed.

That moment summed up the entire evening. It begged the question: In the world's most futuristic city, in the world’s most dynamic region, is the most powerful growth hack simply building real connections, beyond the screen?

For those new to the term, "Xoogler" is the affectionate name for ex-Google employees. We are part of a global network of thousands of alumni dedicated to a shared mission: helping each other thrive in the ventures that come after Google. The community is built on three core pillars: entrepreneurship, mentorship, and genuine connection.

Here in the UAE, our chapter has a unique flavour. Dubai has become a global centre for technology, and our group reflects that. At our meet-up, we had who had relocated from Google's offices in Ireland and Singapore, others who had moved from Morocco, and some who have called Dubai home for over 20 years.

This rich diversity of backgrounds, combined with the UAE's relentless focus on innovation, means our tables are filled with founders building incredible things. It’s a true melting pot of global experience and local ambition.

On June 19th, we gathered at the vibrant Mamm's bar in Mama Shelter, Dubai, for an evening designed around authentic connection, organised in partnership with the fantastic team at UBQT.

Our special guest was Lara Varjabedian, Co-founder of UBQT, whose platform we used to seamlessly organize the catch-up and foster new introductions. The theme was informal, but the outcome was powerful. It confirmed a key takeaway for me: COVID is well behind us, and people are craving the energy and spontaneity of real-life interaction.

And that spontaneity is where the magic happens.

These meetups are more than just social events; they are potential growth engines. Later in the evening, we were joined by friends of Lara. In a conversation that happened completely organically, one of them turned out to have deep connections at Plug and Play, immediately offering to put one of our Xoogler founders in touch with a potential investor.

This is exactly what I mean by "social with a special touch." It's about creating a trusted space where serendipity can lead to life-changing access to funds, a future co-founder, or simply the piece of advice you desperately needed.

An event is just a snapshot in time. The real value of the Xoogler UAE community is the continuous, tangible impact it has on its members' professional journeys. The conversations that start at our meetups translate directly into measurable growth.

For example, stemming from our recent gatherings:

These outcomes aren't accidents. They are the result of bringing together high-calibre, trusted individuals who operate from a place of mutual support.

Someone recently asked me why I dedicate my time to leading this chapter. My answer is simple, and it was validated perfectly at this event. A founder who has attended all our meetups, both online and off, pulled me aside and said, "Thank you for what you're doing. It has real value."

That value is what drives me. My vision for the Xoogler UAE chapter is ambitious but clear.

And I want to extend this spirit of collaboration beyond our own walls. My dream is to build bridges with other alumni communities—the ex-Microsoft, ex-TikTok, or ex-Salesforce networks. In a tech landscape where layoffs can be tough, these communities prove that career transitions don't have to be navigated alone. 

They have the power to make something incredible bloom from the ashes.

The Xoogler UAE community is more than a network; it's a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth in the heart of the Middle East's tech ecosystem. We are builders, founders, and operators committed to helping each other succeed.

For members, let's keep the conversation going. And for our friends in the wider tech scene, follow the official Xoogler UAE LinkedIn page for public announcements and future collaborations.

What was your biggest takeaway from your last great networking event? Share it in the comments below!

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