Hitting the Mark in Saudi Arabia
In the Middle East, respect for tradition, religion, and hierarchy are key attributes for visitors and residents alike.
Doing business in the Middle East demands an extra-large measure of knowledge and sensitivity to cultural differences. Not only are there religious and social traditions to learn, but the region’s history influences current interactions both business and personal. Try this quiz about doing business in Saudi Arabia: If you’re an average Westerner, you’ll probably have to sharpen your cultural perceptions to a greater degree.
Q: As an English professor at Saudi University, you come across the son of an important figure at the Ministry of the Interior. You notice that he seems disinterested, a little arrogant, and at best, only an average student. When asked by the dean of Arts and Science about the student’s performance (and made aware of the student’s father’s importance), should you be completely honest or pretend everything is going smoothly?
