Etiquettes in UAE play a significant role in one’s identity and even for the society there in which you are living. Every country had its own business norms and procedures and while carrying out business at an international workplace, it is necessary to follow certain guidelines relating to the etiquettes followed by them. Moreover, when it comes to business etiquettes in UAE, it is important to remember a few key points for anyone doing a business or holding a job. There are several other important components which are involved in business etiquettes.
A typical working week in Dubai starts from Saturday to Wednesday. The working day begins at 8:00 pm till 1:00 pm in the morning and afternoon hours are from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. After then business recommences at 5:00 pm and runs late till 7:00 pm in the evening.
For greeting the terms ‘Sayed' (Mr) or ‘Sayeda' (Mrs) should be used followed by the first names in order to ensure politeness. Moreover, visitors should not sit pointing their feet directly towards someone. As far as business etiquettes are concerned, it is considered a bad practice.
Business meetings tends to start late with a lengthy preliminary conversation moving onto work issues as by the businessmen in UAE it is considered ill-mannered by getting straight to the business. On Friday’s, meetings should not be scheduled as it is considered a day of prayer.
Formal dress code is very important. Business suits for men and office wear including jackets and trousers for women are considered appropriate business dresses. Women should conservatively dress avoiding short skirts and low necklines especially at workplace. Working women in Dubai need to dress decently.
If you need a translator with you then it would be wise to have a male translator as female translators might not be welcomed in certain cases so for that you have to do a research in advance.
Visitors or business delegates are strongly advised not to initiate discussions on religion, sex and politics and one should try to avoid personalizing your comments.
