As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) undergoes a dynamic transformation, there is a significant increase in the number of tourists visiting the country for business opportunities. In Q1 2023, the influx of tourists to Saudi Arabia rose from 2.5 million in 2022 to an astounding 7.8 million. This surge presents a golden opportunity for businesses, but it is crucial to understand and respect the country’s cultural traditions to avoid any unintentional breaches of etiquette.
Cultural Awareness in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country with a rich Muslim heritage, and its business culture reflects these Islamic traditions. Visitors should be mindful of local customs, such as avoiding scheduling meetings during prayer times or religious holidays. Dress codes and modest behavior are also essential considerations. Men should wear suits with long-sleeved shirts, ties, and polished shoes, while women should opt for loose-fitting, ankle-length dresses, skirts, or trousers with high necklines and long sleeves. Maintaining a neat and professional appearance is crucial for both genders.
Building Business Relationships
Developing connections and relationships is vital in Saudi business culture. Taking the time to get acquainted with Saudi counterparts can have a positive impact and drive results. However, building these relationships may take time. Accepting invitations to socialize outside of work, such as dinners, is advisable as it demonstrates willingness to engage. Socializing and networking are common practices that can help strengthen these relationships. Patience is key, as important business negotiations may involve consultations with top executives who hold decision-making power.
Adapting to the Market
Companies entering the Saudi market may need to adjust their brand strategies to resonate with the local audience. Crafting new branding and fresh content that aligns with the country’s cultural values can be beneficial. Being adaptable and proactive helps mitigate the risk of inadvertently offending the target audience.
The Working Week
Saudi Arabia operates on a different working week schedule, with Friday and Saturday designated as the weekend days. This can pose challenges when scheduling business meetings with individuals from Saudi Arabia and other regions that follow a Monday-to-Friday working week.
Formal Greetings
Greetings in Saudi Arabia are typically formal and polite. It is important to use titles when addressing individuals, especially when meeting someone for the first time. While handshakes are common in the business environment, they may be less firm than in Western cultures. It is customary to only shake hands with a female if she extends her hand first.
Flexible Meeting Times
Punctuality is highly valued in business globally, but meetings in Saudi Arabia may start later than the scheduled time. It is important to be patient and understanding in case of delays. Arriving on time is still advisable, and the waiting period can be utilized for socializing or networking.
Gifts and Hospitality
Offering gifts is a common practice in Saudi Arabia, with items such as perfume, watches, and oud (a type of incense) being popular choices. However, men should avoid gifting perfume to women with whom they do not have a close relationship. When presenting a gift, it is important to choose something of high quality and be respectful of local customs. Invitations to meals or gatherings can also help build rapport.
Language and Communication
Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia, although many Saudis also speak fluent English. Learning some basic Arabic phrases as a sign of respect can be helpful. Maintaining a polite tone in all communications and avoiding confrontational language is essential. Common greetings include a handshake and the phrases “Assalamu Alaikum” (May peace be upon you) and “Wa ‘alaikum assalaam” (And peace be upon you). Other useful words and phrases include “Marhaba” (hello), “ismi” (my name is [your name]), “na’am” (yes), “la” (no), “min fadlik” (please), and “shukran” (thank you).
Adhering to business etiquette in Saudi Arabia is fundamental for successful relationships. Respect for local customs, maintaining professionalism, and prioritizing trust-building through personal connections are key. By following this guide, individuals can navigate the Saudi business environment with confidence and forge successful partnerships.
This article appears in the latest issue of the Omnia Health Magazine, read more here