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Words by Rachel Conlan, CMO of Binance
In January 2021, while carrying my first child, I made the bold – and, truthfully, daunting – decision to move to the UAE. At the time, the world was still finding its way after the pandemic’s upheaval. Having spent nearly two decades navigating the relentless energy of New York and
London, where I had the privilege of working with some of the most iconic brands and forward-thinking leaders, I assumed this move would be a retreat. My plan was simple: take a breath, focus on my family, and perhaps enjoy the stillness professionally.
What I didn’t expect was how this move would profoundly transform my life, personally and professionally. What began as a leap of faith quickly became the start of a journey I never knew I needed.
Finding a New Rhythm in a New Region
Before arriving in the UAE, I had just begun to immerse myself in the world of blockchain and crypto, helping global brands navigate the intersections of sports, entertainment, and technology. But it wasn’t until I was here that I saw the sheer potential of the space. I found myself in a region that didn’t just embrace innovation – it enabled it. The UAE reminded me of New York during its 2008 rebound, a place crackling with energy and possibility.
There’s something unique about the UAE’s spirit; a fearless drive to shape the future. Whether it’s investing in technology, redefining sustainability, or nurturing global talent, there’s a palpable sense of ambition. For someone like me—drawn to transformation and pioneering strategies discovering the UAE was like rediscovering a piece of myself.
But beyond the professional realm, the UAE offered something more profound: space to reset. Moving here gave me an opportunity to find a rhythm that felt balanced yet purposeful. It was a reminder that sometimes, stepping into the unknown, and getting out of my comfort zone and
being my most authentic self was the only way to uncover my true potential.
The Intersection of Growth and Balance
Professionally, the opportunities I’ve encountered in the UAE have been beyond anything I could have envisioned. From leading Binance’s global marketing initiatives to collaborating with brilliant, forward-thinking minds, I’ve been part of projects that don’t just make an impact and
set the tone for others, they have paved the way for the future.
But what has made this chapter so deeply fulfilling is the harmony I’ve found between work and family. As a mother, I’ve learned that balance isn’t about having it all; it’s about compromise, accepting the trade-offs when it matters and making it work for you. The UAE’s family-oriented
culture has allowed me to be present for the moments that matter—bedtime stories, first steps, and stolen giggles—while pursuing a career I’m incredibly passionate about.
This balance has been a gift I didn’t know I needed. It’s taught me that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of personal joy and that it’s possible to create a life where both thrive.
A Place to Dream Bigger
What makes the UAE extraordinary is its vision. It’s a country that doesn’t just chase dreams; it builds them, brick by brick, idea by idea. Here, there’s an unshakable belief that anything is possible – and living in the heart of that energy is nothing short of magnetic.
From hospitality and wellness to technology and sustainability, the UAE isn’t just evolving; it’s leading. And being part of this momentum has been both humbling and reviving.
A Rewarding Journey
Looking back, moving to the UAE wasn’t just the right decision—it was life-changing. I thought I would have to sacrifice my career to be a good mother, I was wrong. I took a leap forward in ways I couldn’t have imagined whilst building a family simultaneously. The UAE didn’t just
become my home; it became the place where I rediscovered possibility, ambition, and joy.
To anyone standing on the edge of a big decision, uncertain of what lies ahead, my advice is simple: trust yourself and take the leap. The most incredible chapters often begin with one single, courageous step.
For me, the UAE isn’t just where I live; it’s where I’ve grown, loved, and reimagined what’s possible – for my family, my career, and myself. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.
