Etiquette and Cultural Tips for Conducting Business in UAE?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) happens to be a nation that offers many alluring business opportunities for foreign businesspeople. However, if you desire to conduct business profitably in the UAE, it would be a great advantage to have a basic understanding of the local culture and business etiquette. The tips provided below should be of value to corporate travellers expecting to do business in this Middle Eastern nation.?

A multicultural country shaped by Islam?

Interestingly, only about one-fifth of the population of the UAE is composed of native Emiratis; the remainder is made up of expats from many different countries across the globe. However, you will find that many business owners, in addition to senior staff and other significant stakeholders, will often be Emiratis.?

It is important to keep in mind that almost all Emiratis happen to be Muslim and Islam plays a key role in UAE culture and business. Accordingly, you should avoid calling during times of prayer, seeking a response in the course of the Muslim weekend or expecting work to be done on significant religious holidays. Remember that the Islamic weekend falls on Thursday and Friday.

Relationships are important?

Emiratis, like many other Arabs, regard people and relationships more highly than deadlines and schedules. Accordingly, you may find that business discussions could be interrupted by other visitors. Similarly, discussions will typically be regarded as open rather than private or confidential. By showing awareness of these norms, you could conduct business effectively in the UAE.?

Generally, you will find that Emiratis have a rather different idea of personal space in comparison to Westerners. Even if you feel that your local associate is invading your personal space you should not step back as this could be seen as a rebuke. However, you should not shake the hand of an Emirati of the opposite sex unless the person initiates the gesture.?

Use the right hand and don’t show the feet?

When shaking hands, proffering a gift or accepting anything it is important to use the right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered to be unclean. Further, in the traditions of Islam, the right hand will be used for clean, virtuous activities like eating, shaking hands, offering presents and donating to charity.?

Just as in other parts of the Middle East as well as the Islamic world, it is regarded as offensive to display your shoe’s sole to anyone; instead, you should rest your feet on the ground.?

Status and honour are significant?

Keep in mind that status plays an important role in the culture of the Emirates. Accordingly, it will be vital to use the correct salutations and titles when addressing people. Additionally, reputation and honour will be very significant to the locals. Therefore, you should avoid criticizing people in public, putting them in difficult situations or posing problematic questions. Naturally, during your business trip to the UAE, you will need a suitable accommodation at which to base yourself; consider a hotel like Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai Hotel that also offers business facilities such as a meeting room in Dubai where you can meet corporate clients and partners.