Empowering Irish Businesses and
Professionals in the UAE

Join today to connect with Irish leaders across the Middle East and beyond.

A Member of the IBN in discussion with another member at one of our events

Get to know us

Who are the Irish Business Network

A network connecting Ireland to the region and the region to Ireland

The Irish Business Network Dubai is a voluntary organisation supporting professionals living in Dubai and the Middle East region, who are Irish or have an affiliation with Ireland. We bring people together, virtually and in a physical environment to create opportunity.

We facilitate connections between individuals and companies to improve individual and collective capabilities and thereby help grow Irish-led and supported businesses.

What We Do

The aim of the Irish Business Network is to promote commercial and business interests in the UAE by providing a platform for members to network across various industries.

Networking

Connect with fellow Irish professionals and entrepreneurs living and working in Dubai. Our vibrant network fosters meaningful relationships, encourages collaboration, and creates a trusted community away from home—where business and culture thrive together.
Showcase Your Business

Shine a spotlight on what you do best. From featured member slots to speaking opportunities, we help you get your business in front of the right audience—boosting visibility, credibility, and growth.
Sector Specific Meetings

Join tailored meetups with others in your field. Our industry-focused sessions allow for deep dives into challenges, trends, and collaborations relevant to your sector—maximising relevance and results.
Monthly Events

Stay inspired and informed with our curated calendar of events. From expert panels to informal meetups, our monthly gatherings blend insight with community to keep you connected and ahead.
Member Only Access

Unlock exclusive content, tools, and insights. As a member, you’ll gain priority access to resources designed to support your business journey—available only to our valued network.
Member Only Benefits

Enjoy perks that make a difference. From discounted services to premium exposure, your membership comes packed with tangible value that supports your business every step of the way.

Learn More

Member Spotlight

Meet Bev O’Connell – Co-Founder, BookSwipe

Bev O’Connell is the co-founder of BookSwipe, alongside co-founder Tilly Wallace. Together, they are building a female-founded social reading platform based in Dubai that helps people create meaningful connections through the simple act of sharing books.

Inspired by Bev’s daughter struggling to reconnect with friends after the pandemic, BookSwipe was created to tackle loneliness, strengthen workplace culture, and bring communities together—one book at a time.

Working with businesses, universities and community organisations across the UAE and beyond, BookSwipe transforms reading into real-world conversations, helping people connect in an authentic way while encouraging wellbeing, inclusion and a love of books.

Driven by a shared vision, Bev and Tilly continue to grow BookSwipe with creativity, resilience and a belief that books have the power to bring people together. More than just a book app, BookSwipe is creating a smarter, more human way to build relationships in an increasingly digital world.