TIPS ON DOING BUSINESS AT MIDDLE EAST

Tips On Doing Business with the Middle East

The Middle East is located in the southwestern part of Asia and is comprised of 17 countries. The Middle East is bordered by Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan. Egypt is often considered part of the middle east as well, even though it is part of the continent of Africa.

Main Industries:
1. Oil/gas services,
2. Mining
3. Transportation
4. Agriculture
5. Light industries

The region relies heavily on importing consumer goods and services.
Dubai is becoming an international commercial center.

Arab Business Culture:

Loyalty is paramount to people in the Middle east and they are loyal to families first, to tribes second, and to friends last. Friendships are typically very close and close contact between friends is common - even between men. Eye contact is very important during business interactions. Do not be surprised that during conversation there can be close physical proximity and that backing up to increase personal space can be considered offensive.

However, Woman may have difficulty doing business and should be sure to keep distance when talking to the opposite sex.

Small talk is essential in establishing relationships and friendship comes before business. Do NOT reject tea or coffee and do NOT offer gifts of food and alcohol.

Arabic is the language used in the Middle East and it is unusual for many Westerners due to the fact that it is a right to left language. Be sure to reverse your pictures in your marketing materials as well, otherwise processes and documentation may seem backwards to the Arabic reader.

The majority of the population of the middle east is Muslim. Only Israel has the majority of non-Muslims or Jewish people, however, parts of Lebanon and other countries have significant Christian influences as well as other religions. There are different religious sects including Sunni, Shiite, And Sufi.

The typical work week in the Middle East is from Saturday to Wednesday.
The Middle East Region offers many opportunities, many people don’t see this region as a good place for business due to the media coverage, the conflict in the area and the current war on terrorism. Many companies are seeing great success in the Middle East - by being open and doing your research…you could too.

Doing business in the Middle East

Some tips for doing business in the Muslim world:

1) When meeting with a group for the first time, shake hands first with the most senior man, then continue in a counterclockwise rotation.

2) It is uncommon for a man to shake hands with a woman, so women should not offer their hand first and risk an awkward situation.

3) Don't be overly admiring of an item that belongs to someone else. They might feel obligated to give it to you.

4) It is considered impolite to refuse a gift or an invitation for example : Saudi Arabians are very hospitable and enjoy giving gifts.

5) Be sure not to schedule appointments during one of the five daily prayer times. Ask what those times are.

6) Dignity and respect are very important to Saudi Arabians, so pressure tactics that force uncomfortable positions are not received well.

7) It is considered disrespectful to show the sole of your shoe to someone. Keep your feet on the floor.

8) Comparative advertising is prohibited in Saudi Arabia