A business is the foundation of any country’s economic affectivity. A business comes into existence in order to fulfill an ultimate goal, and that is to create profit. Argument between the rich and the poor should cease because a successful country is always founded on the paradigm of working towards a common goal. The success of Dubai stems from its oil resources, but today its economic stability is fuelled by a growing tourism industry and Being a duty free port.

Things to Remember

Doing business in a country whose ways and culture is different from that of yours is very important. So here are some things you have to know about conducting business in Dubai.

Arabians are no different from the ancient Greeks who have come before them, in the regard that 7 is a lucky number; this probably accounts for the reason that they build seven of their holy temples. An Arabian oath described by Herodotus tells about seven stones smeared with crimson blood. Muslims also believe in the existence of seven Heavens.

Knowing this key to doing business, much like 8 is an important number for the Chinese. Unlike the British, business in Dubai is not run at a very stringent pace, being late is not uncommon and will not be frowned upon despite the fact that Dubai is probably fast becoming one of the most successful Financial centers in the Middle East. Perhaps, the consideration for lateness is due to Dubai’s infamous traffic problems. It is common knowledge for locals that a 20-minute ride from one location to the other can easily turn into a three hour ordeal because the volume of traffic is really atrocious and it is also a well known fact that Dubai rush hour begins at 12 midnight and ends at 11:59pm.

Not to worry though, because hopefully by 2009 the proposed Metro will probably begin to be of use. This will provide visitors and commuters an alternative to water taxis, taxis, and maybe even driving. Hopefully, the slogan “Soon you’ll feel comfortable . . . and be on time.” will really come into fruituition.

Far from usual expectations, discomfort will not be in the form of too much heat in this arid city, but rather in its extreme humidity. Visitors often catch colds during the summer and are easy to spot among the flurry of the crowd because of their sneezing and coughing as they make their way around town.

As in most countries these days, golf has become a prelude for business dealings. Not only that but being a holiday destination, Dubai has also made a point in including golf in their packages. The city is overtaking Portugal and Spain in terms of becoming a Golf Vacation Place. Despite water irrigation costs, Dubai is seeing sizable yields from its golf courses.
Just like any other principal city in the UAE, Dubai’s skyline is inundated with some of the world’s most delightful hotels. Undoubtedly, the most dramatic and talked about Hotel is the Burj Al Arab. The hotel is designed to look like the billowing sails of a sail boat and stands at a height of 321m; it is now the symbol for Dubai. Dubai’s hotel industry together with the tourism is very much at a rapid growth, so to make way for demand it is expected that budget hotels will also soon penetrate the market.

Although gambling is illegal from an Islamic Law’s point of view, it has not stopped Arab business men from realizing huge earnings by building the state owned casino, Dubai World.

Just like in the western world, drinking coffee has become a custom to show hospitality and entertaining. British brand Whitbread, has already been incepted in the coffee shop market of Dubai through its Costa stores, American brands like Starbucks are expected to follow suit. In Arabic culture, drinking coffee comes with a ritual.

When in Dubai be Like a Dubaian

When holding business in Dubai, it is important to put into mind the culture and traditions of the people you are dealing with. That is why it is important to know a few important things in order to usher in a successful deal.

Appearances are very important. Although you are not expected to don traditional garb, modesty is off the utmost importance. Even in the searing heat Men are expected to wear coat and tie during business meetings. Jewelry is frowned upon especially when visibly hung around the neck. The culture in Dubai is based on the religion of Islam; therefore women must be modestly clothed. Hemlines should never be below the knee and should at least be ankle length, sleeves that reaches up to the elbows, with high necklines are also called for. Pant suits are a no-no because they call attention to the female shape; the outward appearance of baggy clothing is approved of. Scarf’s should also be brought just incase.

Behavior is very important for business counterparts. Never admire an item too much because then you will place your host at the uncomfortable situation of having to give the item to you as a gift. Follow the host’s lead, it is custom to usually remove shoes before entering a building.

Muslim’s don’t drink alcohol, nor do they eat pork. Never serve or eat pork in front of a Muslim as it is deemed to be disrespectful.

Women should never initiate the greeting, or offer her hand particularly to a male counterpart; the cue should always be the men’s. In Dubai it is usually best to wait for your counter part to make the greeting. Greeting forms are usually a hand shake or a kiss on the cheek.

Never point at a person because it is considered rude. Like most of the middle eastern countries, the left hand is often considered as unclean and is reserved only for hygienic purposes. Right hands are what’s used for eating.

Men holding hands is a gesture of friendship. Showing the soles of your foot is offensive so it is better not to cross legs while sitting. Unlike the west a thumb’s up is not a good thing. Don’t expect any gift you bring to be opened right in public since it is custom to do so in private. Never give gifts that contain alcohol, pork, pigskin products, personal items, knives, picture of dogs, or toy dogs, and any erotic pictures of women.

The key to a successful negotiation is communication. Arabs, never discuss their wives, or daughters or talk about women. Israel should not be talked about. However sports is a good ice breaker. Get the names in English to avoid confusion. For the people of Dubai, a yes is an affirmative meaning possibly. During silent lapses do not feel obligated to speak as conversation is always slow with the Arabs.

Last but not least the silent person is almost always the decision maker, he is there to observe and will only give his input at the last minute.