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by Expatguru - 12/03/2011
"This article describes the etiquette to be followed by expatriates working in the Middle East"
Whether you are a business visitor or involved in a job which requires frequent contact with the locals in the Middle East, a few tips is not out of place. You must be aware of what and when to do, before meeting someone.
The first thing you must know is to dress appropriately for the occasion. Never wear shabby or informal clothes when you are on a business mission. If you are a woman, make sure that you wear clothes which cover all parts of your body.
When you meet your host, greet them warmly and genuinely with a firm handshake by saying "Salaam Alaikum" with a slight bow of your head and a genuine smile. If your host happens to be in the company of some stranger, make sure that you greet him too after greeting your host. If you enter a room with several people, you must shake hands with each one of them.
After exchanging business cards, never ever keep your host's card in your hip pocket. Also, while sitting in a chair, do not cross your legs with the tip of your shoe pointing towards him.
You would normally be offered spiced coffee, called 'gahwa' along with dates. I would advise you not to refuse it. Even if you find it unpalatable, do have a sip in order not to offend your host. Arabs usually keep filling your cup as and when it becomes empty.
Before you begin a meeting with your hosts, please do some homework and know about the prayer timings, which keep varying each day slightly. Adjust the time of your meeting so as not to overlap with the prayer. If you are a Muslim, you would be expected to participate in the prayer along with them. If you are not a Muslim, make sure not to wear garish ornaments (certainly not gold chains or bracelets). If you wear a gold ring, usually no one makes a big fuss about it.
Patience is a very big virtue. Please note that business relationship takes time to develop. Tribal and family relationship takes priority in the Middle East and you must win the trust of your host to make your relationship successful. Establishing a personal rapport and developing a genuine friendship with Arabs would take you a long way in the success of your business.
Never ever discuss subjects like terrorism, monarchy, religion, etc., even on the sidelines. These topics are all taboo and are extremely sensitive. Acceptable topics are weather and sports (particularly football), etc. Never use your left hand. If your right hand is wet or dirty, first wipe it thoroughly. If you are caught in a situation where you must shake hands, offer your wrist with a polite apology rather than withdrawing your hand, which is considered offensive.
Always address your host by his last name, at least initially. Make sure to thank him after ending the meeting with a firm handshake and follow up with a thank you email after returning home.
Expatguru
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