by Dean Foster
July 2007

Under the sleek, modern surface of the UAE’s capital lies a complex Middle Eastern culture with its own rules when it comes to doing business. Here are some cultural pointers for working successfully in Abu Dhabi.

1. Westerners are welcome guests, as long as they respect Islamic culture. All things
Western (dress, food, drink—including alcohol—and business behaviors) are accepted and understood, if they do not challenge an essentially conservative view of life and human relationships. You’re not expected to act like a local, but nor should you push the envelope.

2. Traditional Gulf hospitality requires endless rounds of coffee (dense and sometimes spiced) and tea, both usually highly sweetened. Do not refuse another cup; if you are done drinking, simply lift the empty cup to your lips. You will also always be implored to eat more food: Refuse two or three times for politeness, then accept. If you do not want more food, leave some on your plate.

3. Remain flexible with time: Last-minute schedule changes are common, and meetings may take place at any hour of the day (or night). Build in more flex time, and expect to discuss many topics simultaneously.

4. Avoid using your left hand when passing important documents or food, or when greeting people. Never reveal the sole of your shoe when sitting. Never point or beckon with your index finger; instead, use your full upward-facing open palm. When beckoning people, use your open downward-facing palm at eye level, and wave all fingers up and down together.

5. Be respectful of the general patterns of Islamic life: Observant Muslims avoid alcohol and pork. Muslim holidays (especially Ramadan) and the Friday holy day are typically not good times to introduce important new business, and daily prayer times (there are five, three of which can occur during business hours) must be respected.

6. Businesswomen should dress modestly (loose-fitting business dress with arms covered to the wrist, legs covered to below the knee, a blouse that covers the shoulders), but should expect to be treated with as much credibility and authority as businessmen.

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DEAN FOSTER is principal of Dean Foster Associates (learnaboutcultures.com) and an expert in intercultural management for global business.