Is it safe to drink the tap water?

Absolutely not. Only drink bottled water with a sealed cap.

How should I dress for business meetings?

Business formal is standard in Mumbai. A suit and tie for men and professional attire for women is expected in corporate settings.

Can I use Uber or Ola?

They work, but during peak hours, drivers often cancel rides if the destination is stuck in traffic. A hired private car is superior for business efficiency.

Planning a business trip to Mumbai

To plan a successful business trip to Mumbai, focus on booking a hotel in the business district where your meetings are held to avoid the city's notorious traffic. Hire a dedicated car and driver for the duration of your stay rather than relying on rideshare apps, as this provides a reliable space to work or decompress between meetings.

Map your meeting locations. Mumbai is geographically fragmented. If your meetings are in BKC (Bandra Kurla Complex), stay in BKC. If they are in Nariman Point or Lower Parel, stay in those areas. Do not attempt to cross town during peak hours (8:00 AM–10:30 AM and 6:00 PM–8:30 PM).
Secure a car and driver. Arrange a full-day car hire through your hotel concierge or a reputable corporate travel agency. Expect to pay about $40–$60 per day for an air-conditioned sedan. This is safer and more reliable than navigating local taxis or apps during the workday.
Set up your communication. Buy a local Airtel or Jio SIM card at the Mumbai airport (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International) immediately upon arrival. You will need your passport and a passport-sized photo. Data is cheap and essential for reliable GPS and messaging.
Manage your health and water. Drink only bottled, sealed water—even in high-end hotels. Stick to cooked foods in the first 48 hours to avoid 'Delhi Belly' and keep your focus on your business objectives.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: Absolutely not. Only drink bottled water with a sealed cap.
How should I dress for business meetings?: Business formal is standard in Mumbai. A suit and tie for men and professional attire for women is expected in corporate settings.
Can I use Uber or Ola?: They work, but during peak hours, drivers often cancel rides if the destination is stuck in traffic. A hired private car is superior for business efficiency.