Middle Eastern Business Etiquette
The Middle East is an area many businesses have an interest in for a variety of different reasons. Before doing business there, companies should educate their employees in the ways of Middle Eastern business etiquette to ensure operations run smoothly.
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Islam
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The Middle East cannot be talked about without bringing up Islam. Islam is felt in every aspect of Middle Eastern society, and business is no exception. Muslims pray five times a day, and if you are scheduling meetings or presentations in the Middle East, prayer times should be kept in mind. Also, business should be avoided completely during the holy month of Ramadan.
Salutations
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Handshakes are prominent in the Middle East, and can last for a much longer time than most Westerners are used to. Middle Eastern business etiquette calls for someone to wait to withdraw their hand until the other person does first. Always use your right hand when shaking hands. Gender is still a big issue in the Middle East. If by chance you are introduced to a woman and you are a male, wait and see if a hand is extended. If it isn't, then do not shake hands. Also avoid eye contact with women.
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Considerations
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Middle Easterners do not separate their personal and professional lives. Business in the Middle East revolves around personal relationships, trust, honor and family ties. It is crucial that you establish a business relationship based on mutual friendship and trust.
Spoken Word
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Middle Eastern business etiquette places a great amount of importance on the spoken word. It is very important that you do not promise things on top of a contract that you sign with Middle Eastern businesses if you cannot deliver them because you will be held accountable.
Meetings
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Meetings in the Middle Eastern business world can be very strange for Westerners. They are often very chaotic when compared to meetings that take place in the West, and are not structured on agendas or goals. It is important for Westerners to have patience and to not come off as annoyed.
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