The former DJ globetrotter who has made Dubai her home since 1993
Say hello to the inimitable Gail Clough, the former DJ and globetrotter who moved to Dubai in 1993 and is now running The Laughter Factory. Here, she provides a little insight into her time spent in the UAE so far.
Tell us a little bit of yourself
I spent seven years travelling the world as a DJ, living in 11 countries. I was the first DJ over the Berlin Wall and into China. I also drove from my mother’s house to the artic circle at the top of Norway in a 14, year-old Volvo, to do some DJ gigs in the dark. It took me six months to get there and six months back. I still love to DJ, especially to mixed age and nationality crowds. I love using my travel experience to play random music that you would only know, if you’d lived in that particular country.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
I came to Dubai in 1993 as a DJ and started one of the most respected comedy clubs in the world, the Laughter Factory. I also co-own FamilyBeatz the UAE’s first and best family rave. The businesses are like my two children that are very different but I love them both the same. This region is always full of opportunities. Once you gain a reputation for putting great events on, the public will follow you.
How has living in Dubai shaped your sense of belonging and community?
When I travelled alone for six years, so many kind people invited me into their social circles. I am so conscious of paying that forward. We have a party after every show where we all chat to each other about comedy. We have no chairs so everyone stands up and talks to each other, kinda like the 90s. At FamilyBeatz people are on the dancefloor with their kids and people meet other families that like to dance. We are a strong, passionate, inclusive community that love to invite new people to the group. We know each other and look forward to our time together.
Can you tell us about a particular person in Dubai who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
Duncan Jones my business partner for over 30 years. We have a laugh every day and he ques up to get all our visas and paperwork. He deserves to be a millionaire but he’s skint.
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What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
Safety, the fact I can go out and party in my 50s and there are plenty of people my age out having fun.
A myth about Dubai that you would like to bust?
That it’s full of fake people. You have to decide yourself who you choose to spend time with. There is cross section of people here. It’s the same as every other country. I’m around people who laugh and dance so that’s a great start.
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Dubai community in your own life?
After the lockdown a lot of people were still quite nervous about going to shows. Our regulars came down to the club and laughed like a train. We offered people who had lost jobs a free ticket but most people paid anyway.
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