Discuss the cultural highlights to be kept in mind when doing business in Arab countries.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Europeans and Americans often find it extremely hard to do business in Arab countries, and a number of Arab cultural characteristics can be cited for this difficulty. One is the Arab view of time. In Arab countries, a favorite expression is Bukra insha Allah, which means "Tomorrow if God wills," an expression that explains the fatalistic approach to time common to many Arab cultures. As a result, if Arab businesspeople commit themselves to a date in the future and fail to show up, they may feel no guilt or concern because they believe they have no control over time in the first place. When conducting business in an Arab country, it is important to understand that culture generally holds that destiny depends more on the will of a supreme being than on the behavior of individuals. Social status is largely determined by family position and connections, not necessarily by accomplishments. Initial meetings typically are used to get to know the other party. Business-related discussions may not occur until the third or fourth meeting. It is not necessary to bring the other party a gift. If this is done, however, it should be a modest gift. Also, Arab businesspeople tend to attach a great deal of importance to status and rank. When meeting with them, one should pay deference to the senior person first. It also is important never to criticize or berate anyone publicly. Mutual respect is required at all times.