10 Interview Questions and Answers for an Investment Banker in Dubai

Break into Dubai’s high-stakes finance scene

Dubai’s investment banking sector is thriving, with local and international banks handling mergers, acquisitions, IPOs, and major financing deals. For finance professionals with strong analytical minds and client-facing skills, investment banking roles in the UAE offer prestige, fast-paced growth, and lucrative compensation.

If you're applying for a role in this elite field, here are the top 10 interview questions—and how to answer them with confidence.

1. Why do you want to work in investment banking in Dubai?

“Dubai is a regional financial hub, and I’m drawn to the fast-paced environment, global client exposure, and focus on cross-border deals. I want to contribute to high-impact transactions while expanding my network in MENA.”

2. Walk me through a financial model you’ve built

“I built a three-statement model for a logistics company’s M&A deal, including valuation, sensitivity analysis, and DCF projections. I ensured assumptions were clearly linked, and scenario testing was included.”

3. What valuation methods are you most comfortable with?

“I regularly use DCF, comparable company analysis, and precedent transactions. I’m also comfortable using EV/EBITDA and P/E multiples depending on the industry.”

4. How would you value a company with negative cash flow?

“In such cases, I focus on asset-based valuation, revenue multiples, or comparable metrics from similar growth-stage companies. I’d also factor in long-term potential and market trends.”

5. Describe a time you worked under pressure

“During a live deal, we had to deliver a pitch deck for a client within 48 hours. I coordinated with the analyst team, led the financial model cleanup, and ensured all numbers aligned. We submitted on time and won the mandate.”

6. What’s the difference between enterprise value and equity value?

“Enterprise value includes debt and excludes cash—it's the value of the business regardless of capital structure. Equity value is what’s attributable to shareholders.”

7. How do interest rate changes affect M&A activity?

“Rising rates increase the cost of borrowing, which can reduce leveraged buyouts and deal volume. In a high-rate environment, cash-rich strategic buyers have an advantage.”

8. What are the key challenges for investment banks in the GCC?

“Market volatility, regulatory differences across countries, talent competition, and geopolitical risk. But the region’s diversification efforts also create new opportunities.”

9. Tell us about a time you dealt with a difficult client

“A client kept revising financial assumptions. I scheduled a call to understand their concerns, adjusted the model with clear reasoning, and aligned expectations to avoid future changes.”

10. Why should we hire you?

“My modeling skills, deal experience, and regional awareness make me ready to add value on day one. I also bring strong communication and a client-first mindset.”

Final thoughts

Dubai’s investment banking scene is competitive, but if you bring sharp financial thinking and composure under pressure, you’ll thrive. Use real examples to show what you’ve achieved—and how you think.

Apply for top jobs today on Bayt.com.

Farah Douglas
  • Posted by Farah Douglas - ‏24/04/2025
  • Last updated: 24/04/2025
  • Posted by Farah Douglas - ‏24/04/2025
  • Last updated: 24/04/2025
Comments
(0)