Saudi+Arabia



Saudi Arabia is a modern country technologically but when conducting business there the most important thing to understand is their religion and how it plays a role in their life. When you enter Saudi Arabia you are subject to the same Islamic laws that every Saudi is. It it common for unknowing westerners to be imprisoned for posessing illegal objects such as pork, pornography and alcohol. Do not be suprised by the strict crime system they run, thieves still have their hands amputated and capital crimes are punishable by public beheading. These laws are just a few examples of the highly rule oriented system run by the Saudi Monarchy, they have a low tolerance for uncertainty and resist change so be sure to tread lightly. If you are trying to communicate with your counterparts back in the U.S. the Arabian Standard Time is 8 hours ahead of the Eastern Standard Time and 11 hours ahead of Pacific Standard time so plan correspondence accordingly. The basic monetary unit is the Saudi Riyal. When converting your U.S. dollars to Riyals it is helpful to know that one U.S. dollar converts to 3.75 Riyals. Here are some key points in conducting successful and respectable business in Saudi Arabia...

Concerning Appearance


 * It is never acceptable to show bare shoulders, stomach or thigh.
 * Do not try to adopt the native clothing as it will be found offensive.
 * Cover as much as the body as possible at all times.
 * Do not wear visible jewelry especially around the neck.
 * Women's clothes should always aim for the goal of baggy concealment.

Concerning Behavior


 * Follow the lead of your host but remember it is common to remove your shoes when entering a building.
 * Alcohol and Pork are illegal.
 * The left hand is considered unclean. Do not eat with the left hand and do not point at someone.
 * The thumbs up gesture is considered offensive.
 * Never show the bottom of your feet.
 * Remember Friday is the day of rest in the Muslim world.
 * It is best to wait for your counterpart to initiate the greeting. Men will shake hands with men but it is best for business women to wait for a man to offer his hand.
 * It is impolite to refuse gifts but also avoid admiring a gift too much.

Concerning Communications


 * Do not raise the topic of women EVER. Avoid speaking about Israel as well. Sports is a safe topic to discuss.
 * Communications most likely will occur at a slow speed. Do not feel inclined to talk during moments of silence. "Yes" most often means "possibly".
 * The decision maker is probably a silent observer, The one asking the most questions is probably the least important present.
 * A Saudi host may interrupt and leave in a business meeting for 20 minutes in order to take part in daily prayer.
 * The most common greeting is Assalamo Alaikum it is usually followed by shaking hands and saying Kaif Hal Ak.

If you follow these rules and guidelines for conduct in Saudi Arabian business then your ventures should be most successful. Good luck and remember the key to success in a country so deeply rooted in its faith and history lies in understanding the culture. FUN FACT: Non Muslims may not enter Saudi Arabia without an invitation and may not leave without an exit permit.

[] Patty Butler 2007.