Employee Participation in Decision-Making in Dubai Companies: A Qualitative Study

Decision-making is a critical managerial function that shapes organizational success and employee engagement, representing a modern direction in the scope of managerial behavior. In this regard, Dubai is the economic city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a city renowned for its diverse workforce and dynamic business environment, presenting a unique context where cultural, organizational, and economic factors influence managerial decision-making styles. This qualitative study explores the decision-making styles of managers across various sectors in Dubai, focusing on the impact of cultural diversity, hierarchical structures, and organizational goals on their approach. Through in-depth interviews with managers and employees, the study identifies prevalent styles such as authoritarian, participative, and consultative decision-making, while also addressing the challenges managers face in balancing efficiency and inclusivity. The study also reflects on assertions by leading theorists in management and organizational behavior, emphasizing the necessity of future research to understand the effective link between managerial attitudes and their approach to participation in decision-making style. Leaders need to make decisions in a way that suits the new culture in which they are placed. This paper aims to explore how managers in Dubai make decisions in respect to their contextual environment and to what extent do managers allow individuals or groups to participate in decision-making within organizations in Dubai.