Entrepreneurship is not only centred around innovation, but it also relies on connections. Where an entrepreneur forges these connections and how many they manage to make is known as their business network, and the bigger a business network, the higher the business soars. Many entrepreneurs will set their sights on North American and European countries to build their network, largely neglecting the up-and-coming Arabian countries. Stretching from Morocco in North Africa to Yemen in the Arabian Peninsula, the rich and lucrative business opportunities of the Arabian world are many. So, what’s to stop entrepreneurs covering this undiscovered ground?
Despite the obvious cultural differences, values, and customs, the business communication gap can be closed. However, this daunting task requires plenty of research, experience, and understanding. As we enter a new era, this gap is closing further every day. Here are some simple tips and tidbits that will help you navigate your business relations in Arabian countries.
Think about timing. The workweek is somewhat different in the Arab world where Islam is the predominant religion. Due to Friday being considered the holiest day, you’ll find that in most Arab countries a Friday and Saturday weekend schedule is observed. The countries that follow a Saturday and Sunday weekend schedule are Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia. The Gregorian character is used throughout the Arab world, however, a lunar calendar is also used in relation to religion. Lunar time can be hard to predict in comparison to Solar time meaning that many significant Islamic holidays/celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha take place on different days every year. The holy month of Ramadan, a month of prayer and fasting in Islam, is also subject to the unpredictability of the Lunar calendar. It is essential that you keep track of these changes and adjust your schedule to suit. It’s not easy but planning meetings around these times is essential.
Flexibility. In relation to timing, don’t always expect punctuality in the Arab world. Flexibility and understanding are key in this respect as it’s the norm in many Arab countries. Do not take offense if a potential business partner arrives an hour or even multiple hours late to a meeting.
In-person meetings. There is a thin line between personal and business relations in the Arab world. Therefore, business meetings tend to be conducted in a more personal, face-to-face manner. Do not bank on being able to secure any deals or connections through email or over the phone.
In-person meetings. There is a thin line between personal and business relations in the Arab world. Therefore, business meetings tend to be conducted in a more personal, face-to-face manner. Do not bank on being able to secure any deals or connections through email or over the phone.
Speak in their tongue. Naturally, the predominant business language in the Arab world remains Arabic despite an ever-growing use of English. Most Arabs hold their language close to their heart. Learning a few phrases or even more cannot only gain you favour but will also make business meetings run more smoothly.
Expect interruptions. Now that we’ve globally entered the era of technology, there’s no getting around that people will check their phones from time to time – even during meetings. This practice is slightly more common during business meetings in the Arab world and is not meant as an offense. There is also a slightly more common tendency to chat during meetings in the Arab world. So, don’t take interruptions as a slight and try to go with the flow.
Expect interruptions. Now that we’ve globally entered the era of technology, there’s no getting around that people will check their phones from time to time – even during meetings. This practice is slightly more common during business meetings in the Arab world and is not meant as an offense. There is also a slightly more common tendency to chat during meetings in the Arab world. So, don’t take interruptions as a slight and try to go with the flow.
Have patience. Due to prevalent bureaucracy and the more personal nature of business relations, sealing a deal can take a significantly longer time in the Arab world than in the West.
There is a general code known as “Wasta” with a central tenet of “It’s not what you know but who you know”. Though this may be looked down upon in North American or European countries, it’s simply how things are done in the Arab world and there is no bad association with the “Wasta” system. By using this system to your advantage and forming plenty of close business ties, you could find that your deals come along a lot swifter.
There is a general code known as “Wasta” with a central tenet of “It’s not what you know but who you know”. Though this may be looked down upon in North American or European countries, it’s simply how things are done in the Arab world and there is no bad association with the “Wasta” system. By using this system to your advantage and forming plenty of close business ties, you could find that your deals come along a lot swifter.
Dress code. There are many dress codes spread out among the countries of the Arab world. Men and Women will often dress completely differently between one country to another. Taking this into account, it’s essential that you do your research on the dress codes of the countries you plan on visiting or conducting business in, and dress according to these codes.
The entrepreneur and business spheres of the Arab world are a dynamic and exciting environment right now. There’s no better time to set your sights on what the Arab world has to offer and start investigating. Learning the language before you go would be of great benefit to opening the door to new horizons.
The entrepreneur and business spheres of the Arab world are a dynamic and exciting environment right now. There’s no better time to set your sights on what the Arab world has to offer and start investigating. Learning the language before you go would be of great benefit to opening the door to new horizons.
