FAQs
General
What are DKO and GLO 2026?
What are DKO and GLO 2026?
- GLO (Global Leadership Offsite): A 3-day gathering (Feb 22–25, 2026) for Deel’s senior leadership team (Directors & above) to align on strategy, strengthen collaboration, and set our long-term vision.
- DKO (Deel Kick Off): A 4-day offsite (Feb 24–27, 2026) designed to Learn, Focus, Grow together as a GTM team with sessions, celebrations, and team-building.
Where are the events taking place?
Where are the events taking place?
Grand Hyatt, Dubai
Riyadh Street, Sheikh Rashid Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Who should attend?
Who should attend?
GLO: Invited Deel leaders
DKO: Invited Deel GTM team members
Is attendance mandatory?
Is attendance mandatory?
Invitees are encouraged to prioritize attendance
What are the cut-off dates for new joiners to be included in DKO & GLO?
What are the cut-off dates for new joiners to be included in DKO & GLO?
GLO: Start date no later than December 12, 2025
DKO: Start date no later than January 9, 2026
What attendee type am I?
What attendee type am I?
Registration & App
How do I register?
How do I register?
Via the event landing page. Registration only takes a couple of minutes. Registrations need to be submitted by Oct 30.
What if I didn’t get a confirmation email?
What if I didn’t get a confirmation email?
Check your spam/junk folder. If it’s missing, please reach out to Triana Jewell-Lujan or Marie Weidmann.
Is there an event app?
Is there an event app?
Yes! The app will launch closer to the event and will include the agenda, speaker details, logistics, and fun surprises.
How do I edit my registration?
How do I edit my registration?
To edit your registration, please sign in with the below links:
DKO: https://events.deel.com/dko-2026/sign-in
GLO: https://events.deel.com/glo-2026/sign-in
Changes to your registration are not final until you have reached the Confirmation page.
How do I change my registration status?
How do I change my registration status?
Travel
Are we using Navan this year?
Are we using Navan this year?
Yes and No. This year, ~12% of travel will be managed directly. People affected are on this list. The travel booking team will contact you to arrange your flights and assist with any changes or cancellations.
Our travel booking team:
- Lauren Traill - Slack profile / lauren.traill@deel.com
- Kayla Louise Watkins - Slack profile / kayla.duplessis@deel.com
When should I arrive and depart?
When should I arrive and depart?
GLO: Arrive by Feb 21, depart after Feb 25 or Feb 27
DKO: Arrive by Feb 24, depart after Feb 27
Will airport transfers be provided?
Will airport transfers be provided?
Yes, transfers between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and the Grand Hyatt will be arranged for arrival and departure.
I don't have a passport yet/ I'm waiting for a new one. What do I do?
I don't have a passport yet/ I'm waiting for a new one. What do I do?
I don’t have my passport yet / I’m waiting for a new one. What should I do? If your passport is expired but your name remains the same, you may submit the expired passport details for now so your flight can be booked.
Once your new passport is issued, you must send the new passport number and expiry date to:
- Lauren Traill - Slack profile / Lauren@gbbafrica.co.za
- Kayla Louise Watkins - Slack profile / Kayla@gbbafrica.co.za
They will update your booking accordingly.
My passport expires soon. Can I still travel?
My passport expires soon. Can I still travel?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. If it does not meet this requirement, please renew it urgently and follow the same process as above (submit expired/old details now, update once you receive the new one).
Where do I find my flight booking confirmation?
Where do I find my flight booking confirmation?
Your flight booking confirmation will be sent to your email directly by the airline. If you don’t see it in your inbox, please check your spam/junk folder. If it’s still not there, contact Lauren or Kayla for help.
What if I want to extend my stay at the hotel?
What if I want to extend my stay at the hotel?
Dubai is a city like no other, where futuristic skyscrapers meet golden deserts, luxury shopping, and world-class dining. If your schedule allows, we encourage you to stay a few extra days to explore its iconic landmarks, enjoy a desert safari, or experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Please note that it is not possible to extend your stay at the Grand Hyatt, as our group booking is limited to the official GLO dates. If you wish to remain in Dubai longer, we recommend booking additional nights directly with the hotel or exploring other nearby accommodations. All additional stays or travel plans outside of the event dates will be at your own expense.
What about travel insurance?
What about travel insurance?
Deel provides all team members traveling for business travel insurance coverage.
To prepare for your upcoming offsite travel, please ensure you have reviewed the travel insurance page here.
How to Book Your Flight - Intake Form
Can I choose my preferred flights? Where should I get screenshots for flight options?
Can I choose my preferred flights? Where should I get screenshots for flight options?
Yes - you may upload screenshots of flights that suit your timing, routing, and airline preferences. Screenshots from Google Flights or Skyscanner are completely acceptable. You may use either of these sources when submitting your flight preferences. Please ensure the screenshots clearly show:
- dates
- times
- airline
- routing
- layovers
How will I receive my ticket?
How will I receive my ticket?
Please allow up to 72 hours after submitting the form for your ticket to be issued.
How will I receive my flight confirmation?
How will I receive my flight confirmation?
You will be notified directly via Slack once your ticket is ready.
Can I add extra baggage or upgrade my seats?
Can I add extra baggage or upgrade my seats?
Luggage or Suitcase Add-ons
- Yes, one checked bag is included for all DKO travel bookings, if indicated on the travel intake form.
Seat Upgrades
- Yes. Upgrades and seat selections are optional and at your own expense. You will be billed directly for these upgrades/extras.
- Please check the relevant boxes in the Google form indicating that you’d like upgrades or additional services added to your booking. After all required travel documents are received, the travel team will contact you with options and quotes for the extras you requested. Once you approve a quote, you will receive an invoice for the additional cost.
Can I chose my return destination?
Can I chose my return destination?
Yes. You may return to:
- your home city, or
- a different destination, or
- request two one-way tickets
Please indicate this clearly in the form.
What if I have visa or transits restrictions?
What if I have visa or transits restrictions?
If your nationality cannot transit through certain countries (e.g., Russian passport holders cannot transit the UK), please specify this clearly in the “restrictions” field of the form.
Who do I contact for any travel questions?
Who do I contact for any travel questions?
Your primary POCs for all DKO travel are:
- Lauren Traill - Slack profile / Lauren@gbbafrica.co.za
- Kayla Louise Watkins - Slack profile / Kayla@gbbafrica.co.za
Can I link my frequent flyer information after submitting the travel form?
Can I link my frequent flyer information after submitting the travel form?
Yes. Please enter your frequent flyer number in the “Notes” box within the Google form. Add any relevant details there so the team can include it in your booking. If it’s not submitted initially, you will still be able to provide it later through that notes section.
I don't have good flight connections from X. Can I request a flight to X airport to catch an international connection?
I don't have good flight connections from X. Can I request a flight to X airport to catch an international connection?
Yes. Please add this request in the “Comment” section of the Google form.
The travel team will review available flights on their side and get back to you. If the best option requires traveling to X Airport for your international flight, a train or separate connecting flight can be arranged accordingly.
How is my data being processed?
How is my data being processed?
Deel may use a third-party provider to manage flight delay compensation claims. To do so, Deel may share the necessary personal and travel details you have provided to book your flight. The provider will process this data only for claim purposes under data protection laws. Learn more: https://www.deel.com/legal/privacy-policy/
Who do I contact for help?
Who do I contact for help?
Your primary POCs for all DKO travel are:
- Lauren Traill - Slack profile / Lauren@gbbafrica.co.za
- Kayla Louise Watkins - Slack profile / Kayla@gbbafrica.co.za
How to Book Your Flight - NAVAN
How do I book a flight?
How do I book a flight?
You must book your flight using the Navan invite link that was sent to you. You can also find this invitation link under the “Invitations” tab in your Navan account. This is the only authorized link to use when booking flights for GLO and DKO.
Please do not raise a Trip Proposal to book your flight, as it is not authorized for these events.
Do not book outside the invite link, as only flights booked through the official Navan invitation are approved and covered by Deel.
What do I need before booking?
What do I need before booking?
Access to Navan is required to book your flight.
If you are new and haven’t received your invitation to register in Navan, please reach out to Eris Sulce or Yeral for assistance. Please wait until your account setup and access are completed before attempting to book your flight.
Please make sure that you have completed the setup of your Navan profile before booking. All required information in your profile must be filled in and updated — including personal details, travel document information, and any other necessary fields.Can I choose my preferred airline or flight time?
Can I choose my preferred airline or flight time?
Yes, you can select your preferred airline and flight time from the options available in Navan, but please ensure that your selection is within Deel’s travel policy and made using your best judgment. Booking Premium Economy, Business Class, or any other non-economy option is out of policy and might be declined.
Who pays for the flight?
Who pays for the flight?
Can I add extra baggage or upgrade my seats?
Can I add extra baggage or upgrade my seats?
Luggage or Suitcase Add-ons
- If the luggage option is available in Navan, please add it during booking.
- If the luggage option is not available in Navan, please proceed booking your flight, and you may add the luggage directly with the airline after booking. In this case, the luggage expense can be reimbursed . You will need to upload the invoice in your Deel account for reimbursement.
Seat Upgrades
- You may upgrade your seat at your own expense
- Seat upgrades are allowed but are personal expenses and not reimbursable by Deel.
What if I can't find my preferred flight or route in Navan, or I find a cheaper flights outside of Navan?
What if I can't find my preferred flight or route in Navan, or I find a cheaper flights outside of Navan?
Before booking any flight outside of Navan, please do not proceed without approval. All external bookings must first be reviewed and approved by Procurement.
If you found a cheaper flight outside of Navan, take a screenshot of:
- The flight option found outside of Navan, and
- The Navan flight you are comparing it with
Send both screenshots to Karen Alinio via slack for review and approval. Procurement will check the comparison and confirm if booking outside of Navan is permitted.
The same process applies if the preferred flight or route is not available in Navan, but is available elsewhere. Please take a screenshot of the Navan search results and the flight found outside of Navan, then send both to Procurement (Karen Alinio) for review and approval before proceeding.
Do not book outside of Navan unless Procurement has given explicit approval.
Can I book a multi-city flight?
Can I book a multi-city flight?
What if I need to book a multi-city flight because I have another business trip before or after the event?
What if I need to book a multi-city flight because I have another business trip before or after the event?
How can I check my booking or itinerary?
How can I check my booking or itinerary?
Once confirmed, Navan will send a booking confirmation and e-ticket to your email. You can also view your itinerary in the Navan web portal or app anytime.
What should I do if my flight is delayed or canceled?
What should I do if my flight is delayed or canceled?
For immediate assistance or help, contact Navan Support through in-app chat or call (available 24/7).
Also, inform your manager or Procurement of any major changes.
Can I make flight modifications or changes?
Can I make flight modifications or changes?
Yes, are free to modify or change your flight — you may rebook or adjust your flight details if needed.
However, any flight modification or changes for personal reasons – whether made via Navan (through their agent), or directly with the airline – is a personal expense.
To avoid personal expenses, please make sure that your travel details are final and correct before booking – including:
- Your travel dates
- Your departure and return cities
Finalizing these details before booking will help prevent unnecessary personal costs for flight changes later on.
Who do I contact for help?
Who do I contact for help?
Visas
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please check Dubai entry requirements here.
What if I need a visa?
What if I need a visa?
If required, you will have to apply for a visa. Please make sure to check if your nationality requires a visa on arrival or pre-arrival as it will change the application form. Ensure to apply for the visa as soon as possible, with enough leeway for its issuance. If you need further support, feel free to contact the People Mobility team by opening a ticket here: https://letsdeel.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/15/group/199, and they will be happy to assist you.
Will Deel reimburse the cost of my visa?
Will Deel reimburse the cost of my visa?
Accommodation & Meals
Where will we be staying?
Where will we be staying?
Accommodation is provided at the Grand Hyatt, Dubai for the duration of the event.
I live in Dubai, do I also get a hotel room?
I live in Dubai, do I also get a hotel room?
We can offer you two options!
- Hotel: You can stay onsite for the full experience.
- Commute from home: If commuting, we'd recommend they stay onsite during the day, showers/facilities will be available before evening events. You can submit your commute expenses via Ramp.
How can I request to share hotel rooms with a specific person?
How can I request to share hotel rooms with a specific person?
You can submit your roommate request in the signup form.
What if I have issues or concerns about my assigned roommate?
What if I have issues or concerns about my assigned roommate?
Room-sharing is mandatory. If you have specific concerns, please contact: You can submit a ticket to our People Relations team, here!
I require a single room. Where do I request this?
I require a single room. Where do I request this?
You can submit your Rooming Preference in the signup form. Please note that depending on room and occupancy the additional fee can vary from 130 to 153 USD per night, if you do not have an HR-approved reason.
To request a workplace medical or religious accommodation or adjustment, submit a ticket here.
Can I bring a guest?
Can I bring a guest?
No, this is a company sponsored work event. You will be required to attend company meeting sessions, breakouts, activities, and dinners throughout the event. Should you desire to have family members join you before or after the event in the event location you will be responsible for your own hotel accommodations during that time.
When can I check into my room?
When can I check into my room?
Check in starts from 2pm (GST).
Are meals included?
Are meals included?
Yes! All meals during official event dates are included, along with evening events.
Can I request dietary accommodations?
Can I request dietary accommodations?
Yes, please indicate any dietary restrictions in your registration form.
Is there a gym, pool, or other recreational facilities we can use?
Is there a gym, pool, or other recreational facilities we can use?
Yes, there’s a spacious outdoor pool area, as well as an indoor pool and a 24h state-of-the-art fitness center.
Will we have access to Wi-Fi in the rooms and conference areas?
Will we have access to Wi-Fi in the rooms and conference areas?
Yes, Wi-Fi will be available throughout the hotel.
Can I bring my family?
Can I bring my family?
We strongly advise against bringing family members, as this is a business-focused event. The schedule and activities are designed for work-related engagement.
However, if you have younger dependents, you may request a single room during registration. Please note that single rooms are subject to availability, and we cannot guarantee that your request will be approved. The standard rule applies — Deel will cover 50% of the room cost, and you’ll be responsible for the remaining 50%, which will be deducted from your paycheck. Any additional expenses (meals, childcare, etc.) must be covered personally.
I want to arrive earlier or leave later. Can I stay in the same hotel?
I want to arrive earlier or leave later. Can I stay in the same hotel?
Yes, you can extend your stay, depending on hotel availability.Please contact the hotel directly to book any additional nights at your own expense. When booking, mention that you’re part of the GLO/DKO event with Deel, and that you will already have a Grand King or Twin room for the conference.You can email:
- Renita Gonsalves – renita.gonsalves@hyatt.com
- Simone Ravetta – simone.ravetta@hyatt.com
- Lucija Krivic – lucija.krivic@hyatt.com
- Aurora Haro – aurora.haro@hyatt.com
Please note:
- The Events team cannot assist with or manage bookings outside the official event dates.
- There are no additional discounts available for extended stays beyond the group’s official dates.
I’m traveling from a distant location and my flight is 15+ hours. Can I have an extra night covered by Deel?
I’m traveling from a distant location and my flight is 15+ hours. Can I have an extra night covered by Deel?
Deel will not cover accommodation outside the official event window. The official accommodation dates are as follows:
- GLO: February 22 – 25
- GLO & DKO: February 22 – 27
- DKO: February 24 – 27
If you wish to arrive earlier or stay later due to travel time or jet lag, those extra nights will be at your own expense.
Policies & Reimbursement
Expense Policy
Expense Policy
Can be reimbursed:
- Deel will reimburse at a rate of up to USD $60.00 per person per day when traveling for business. Where travel is for a portion of a day, the daily rate will be apportioned as such. In instances where breakfast is included in a hotel stay, the daily meal allowance will be reduced by ⅓. Deel will not refund for any purchase of alcoholic beverages.
- Checked baggage can be reimbursed if it is added to your booking separately, which it cannot be done when booking the flight.
Cannot be reimbursed:
- Costs related to personal devices are not reimbursable. For an international eSIM, we have a 10% discount with two partners
- AloSIM - https://alosim.com/?oid=5&affid=50 - Code: DEEL4328
- Airalo - https://airalo.pxf.io/c/2974253/1268485/15608 - Code: DEEL10
- Costs to renew or apply for a passport.
- Meals while in Dubai, as all will be provided.
- Cabin and seat upgrades and the related cost to flight changes are not eligible for reimbursement.
Expensing: Approved expenses related to the event should be submitted through our Expense tool in Deel, coded with “Business Expense - Team Offsite” in the “Memo” field on your reimbursement request, and include the following description: 2026 Global Leader Offsite. Please reference the Global Travel and Expense Policy.
If I take my team out for drinks or dinner, will this be reimbursed?
If I take my team out for drinks or dinner, will this be reimbursed?
No, team outings are not covered under the SKO budget.
Can I expense personal items purchased during the trip?
Can I expense personal items purchased during the trip?
No, only pre-approved business expenses are eligible.
Will Deel cover the minibar or room service?
Will Deel cover the minibar or room service?
No, personal room charges are not reimbursable.
How do I submit an approved expense?
How do I submit an approved expense?
Approved expenses related to the event should be submitted through our Expense tool in Deel, coded with “Business Expense - Team Offsite” in the “Memo” field on your reimbursement request, and include the following description: 2026 Global DKO. Please reference the Global Travel and Expense Policy. Please reference the Global Travel and Expense Policy.
Agenda
Please note the Agenda is subject to change.
What time does the event start and end each day?
What time does the event start and end each day?
Refer to the agenda for specific times here: Agenda is currently still in work.
Can I skip sessions I don’t find relevant?
Can I skip sessions I don’t find relevant?
No, attendance is mandatory for all sessions.
Are there evening activities or networking opportunities planned?
Are there evening activities or networking opportunities planned?
Yes, there are evening activities and networking opportunities planned. They can be found in the agenda here: Agenda is currently still in work.
Can we organize informal meet-ups with other attendees?
Can we organize informal meet-ups with other attendees?
The agenda is jam-packed with activities that include plenty of networking opportunities, so there will be ample time to connect with other attendees during the event.
Rules, Laws & Cultural Etiquette in Dubai
Alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption
- Alcohol may only be consumed in licensed venues, such as hotel bars and restaurants.
- It is illegal to drink or be intoxicated in public (including streets, beaches, or non-licensed areas).
- The legal drinking age is 21.
- Drunk and disorderly behavior is taken very seriously and can result in arrest or severe penalties.
Drugs and controlled substances
Drugs and controlled substances
- The UAE enforces a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs (This includes all controlled substances, even small or “soft” drugs like cannabis) under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021.
- Possession, trafficking, or even trace residues on luggage, clothing, or personal items can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
- Deel cannot intervene with law enforcement; compliance with local laws is the responsibility of every traveler.
Behavior and public conduct
Behavior and public conduct
- Public displays of affection (such as kissing or hugging) are considered inappropriate in public.
- Avoid loud, rude, or disruptive behavior in public spaces.
- Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women or families, it is illegal to take photos without consent.
Dress and cultural respect
Dress and cultural respect
- Dress modestly in public places, shoulders and knees should be covered.
- At the hotel or event venue, normal business attire is appropriate.
- Use your right hand for greetings, eating, or giving items, as the left hand is considered impolite in local culture.
Ramadan
Will it change the event schedule?
Will it change the event schedule?
Our agenda and meal timings will be planned thoughtfully with respect for Ramadan. You may notice slightly adjusted break and dinner times to align with local customs and fasting schedules.
Will food and drinks be available during the day?
Will food and drinks be available during the day?
Yes. Meals and refreshments will be served indoors during the day for attendees who are not fasting. Out of respect for those observing Ramadan, all food and beverage service will take place in designated event and dining areas.
What if I’m observing Ramadan?
What if I’m observing Ramadan?
We’ll have comfortable quiet areas available during meal times, and our evening dinners will include Iftar experiences so attendees observing Ramadan can break their fast together in a welcoming and inclusive setting.
Can I eat or drink in public spaces?
Can I eat or drink in public spaces?
Out of respect for those fasting, we kindly ask that you avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public areas during daylight hours. Food and beverages will be readily available in our private event spaces throughout the day.
How will evening activities work?
How will evening activities work?
Evening events will begin after sunset to respect Iftar (the evening meal that breaks the fast). Some dinners and experiences will highlight this beautiful tradition as part of the cultural celebration.
Are restaurants and bars open?
Are restaurants and bars open?
Many hotel restaurants operate as usual but may have covered dining areas or limited service until sunset.
How will Deel support us?
How will Deel support us?
Our Events team and venue partners are fully prepared for Ramadan. We’ll ensure the schedule, dining options, and experiences are designed so everyone feels comfortable, respected, and cared for. A dedicated onsite support desk will be available throughout the event for any questions or special requests.
Dress Code
What should I wear?
What should I wear?
Yes, the dress code is smart casual for sessions and cocktail attire for evening activities. For inspiration, check out our Pinterest board: coming soon
Expect warm days (~25°C / 77°F) and cooler evenings, so pack a light jacket or blazer.
Practicalities
What’s the weather like in February in Dubai?
What’s the weather like in February in Dubai?
Pleasant and sunny, around 25°C (77°F) during the day, cooler at night.
What currency is used?
What currency is used?
United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED. / 1 EUR ≈ 4.31 AED. Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for markets, taxis, and tips.
What if I’m observing Ramadan?
What if I’m observing Ramadan?
We’ll have comfortable quiet areas available during meal times, and our evening dinners will include Iftar experiences so attendees observing Ramadan can break their fast together in a welcoming and inclusive setting.
What if I’m observing Ramadan?
What if I’m observing Ramadan?
We’ll have comfortable quiet areas available during meal times, and our evening dinners will include Iftar experiences so attendees observing Ramadan can break their fast together in a welcoming and inclusive setting.
Will WiFi be available?
Will WiFi be available?
Yes, WiFi will be available at the hotel/venue.
Other
What do I need to bring with me?
What do I need to bring with me?
Bring essentials like your laptop, charger, and any personal items you may need. Since the event has specific attire, pack smart casual outfits for sessions and cocktail attire for evening activities. Don’t forget your travel documents, such as your passport or visa if applicable.
What should I do if I feel unwell during the event?
What should I do if I feel unwell during the event?
If you feel unwell, please inform one of the Deel Emergency Contacts.
| Name | Role | Phone number via Whatsapp |
|---|---|---|
| Olivier Elbaz | Head of International Expansion. | +972587805576 |
| Ilana Elbaz | Head of Sales | +66924257558 |
| Chris Lee | Head of Sales | +16192770520 |
You can also visit the nearest medical center: Dubai Healthcare City Center Branch Oud Metha or City Hospital
Who do I contact for on-site support or emergencies?
Who do I contact for on-site support or emergencies?
For on-site support, you can contact any of the Deel Emergency Contacts.
| Name | Role | Phone number via Whatsapp |
|---|---|---|
| Olivier Elbaz | Head of International Expansion. | +972587805576 |
| Ilana Elbaz | Head of Sales | +66924257558 |
| Chris Lee | Head of Sales | +16192770520 |
For urgent medical or safety concerns, dial 999 (police) or 998 (ambulance) for local emergency services in Dubai.
Who can I contact with further questions?
Who can I contact with further questions?
Please reach out to the team via the dedicated Slack channel: #2026-global-leader-offsite