Banking in Dubai

Greetings, i am just arriving to Dubai and need to open a bank account. My work has suggested i do it myself as they would take too long. Any opinions on better banking out there, local or international banks in terms of service, fees, etc? And... my work contract states my salary in US dollars but then my work converts it to local currency at the end of the month. I have an option to take it at a fixed rate to avoid fluctuations in the dollar.... anyone think this is a good idea, or not?
Greatly appreciated....!