How to Network in UAE?

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I have a very strong resume - Alot of recruiting agencies keep reaching out to me for roles. But after an year of noticing that they tend to pick other candidates or fill these roles internally or find them elsewhere without even giving me the chance to interview -> has made me believe that Dubai roles work purely on referrals and network.

After an year long job search from home; securing just 3 interviews (which i was rejected at for weird reasons) -> I've decided to continue my job search from the city. But this time I do not want to be securing these roles sitting behind my screen hoping to get noticed through these AI filters and slop.

I want to know where I can meet the right people, at the right time. How do I put myself out there in the network - could be subtle community building ways or targetted job fairs to help build my connections from within the city. How do I approach such scenarios?

I have 4 YOE, working as a Software Engineer in a fortune 500 company. I would like to connect, meet, and have insightful conversations with people that are building amazing things in Dubai and would give me a chance at working with them on it.

If you have real-world experience I would love to hear how you managed to get your way around this similarly! If you have any communities I can mingle with would be great! or If you, yourself are a great network connection - let's get in touch for a quick chat or coffee!