Business Etiquette in Saudi Arabia
Although Saudi Arabia is well known for its oil-based economy, the nation also offers many other business opportunities. Practicing correct Saudi Arabian business etiquette can help to build long-lasting relationships that will serve both local and international clients well.
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Business Attire
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International businesspeople who visit Saudi Arabia are expected to wear a suit and tie; it is best if the suit is dark gray, navy blue, or black. Women are permitted to wear pants in the workplace, but conservative dress is expected. It is considered improper etiquette for a woman to wear too many accessories or to wear a skirt that is above the knee. Saudi law also states that women are to have their heads and bodies covered when in public, and women from other countries are expected to obey this law when they visit Saudi Arabia.
Punctuality and Greetings
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It is essential for international clients to show up on time for meetings although it is common to wait a few minutes for all Saudi Arabian professionals to arrive. It is appropriate etiquette to greet everyone in the room before a meeting begins, starting with the person who has the highest professional title. Business cards can be given and received before a business meeting as well but should always be exchanged with the right hand; it is also a good gesture to have one side of the business card translated into Arabic.
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Business Meetings
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When entering a business meeting, it is customary to remove one's shoes. This may not be the case in every Saudi Arabian office, so it's best to follow the lead of Saudi Arabian professionals when in doubt. It is quite common for Saudi Arabian business meetings to have frequent interruptions; it is important not to become impatient or to show aggravation in these instances, as meeting cancellations and rescheduling are also frequent. The business meeting may also have an easy-going feel, as Saudi Arabians like to build a trusting relationship with a potential client or partner before reaching a decision.
Giving Gifts
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International professionals should not present Saudi Arabians with gifts at the initial business meeting. Gifts may be seen as bribes since Saudi Arabians generally do not accept or give gifts until a bond or relationship has been established. Gifts such as perfume or alcohol should be avoided. It is also customary for Saudi Arabians to open the gift once the giver is not present.
After Work Hours
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If invited to the home of a Saudi Arabian professional after business hours, it is not proper to admire things in the home openly. This admiration will make the Saudi Arabian host feel obligated to give an item to the guest as a gift, and he will be offended if the offer is not accepted. Greetings when entering a Saudi Arabian home should always be made with the right hand. When sitting down, it is considered rude to cross the legs at the knee. Guests should be sure to thank a host when entering and leaving a home.
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References
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