Middle East Sunday Pages Blog

With Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 in full swing, the opportunities are immense, even for Western companies. Yet, the challenge of navigating this unique business landscape while managing team confidence and cultural competence can feel overwhelming. We show you 3 solutions for an immediate impact to your business.

Wondering why your attempts to get a bigger share of the Middle East market aren't yielding results? You are not alone. As a Cultural Strategist who has helped hundreds of Western Commercial Professionals navigate this dynamic market, I have seen the same patterns of struggle repeat themselves. I used to deal with this until I found a better system. So here is the good news: Success in the Middle East is not about working harder – it is about working smarter.

UAE Flag Day was first established in 2013 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The date coincides with the anniversary of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan's accession as President of the UAE. What began as a government initiative has blossomed into a beloved national celebration that brings together Emiratis and expatriates alike.

In the Gulf countries, honey is not just a sweetener – it is liquid gold, a symbol of hospitality, and a connection to an ancient way of life that still thrives in the modern world. From the mountain valleys of Oman to the busy streets of Doha, honey holds a special place in both culture and commerce that might surprise many Westerners.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been making headlines for its rapid social and economic reforms. Among these changes, the realm of sports has seen a particularly dramatic transformation. The Saudi Games, first held in 2022, stand as an example of this evolution, showcasing the Kingdom's athletic talent. Let's dive into this groundbreaking event and explore how it's reshaping the Saudi sports landscape.

When you think of Saudi Arabia, what comes to mind? For many, it might be vast deserts, oil fields, or conservative traditions. But in recent years, the Kingdom has been undergoing a dramatic transformation, and nowhere is this more evident than in the heart of its capital during Riyadh Season, annual festival that has taken the Saudi capital by storm since its inception in 2019.

Breakfast is important in any culture so I wanted to take some time to explore Saudi Breakfast Culture. It offers a lot of insights into the heart of Saudi culture and hospitality. This exploration of Saudi breakfast customs and dishes reveals not only the flavours that start the day for millions but also the social and historical context that shapes this important meal.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is a group of six countries in the Middle East: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. In recent years, these countries have developed ambitious plans, called "visions", to transform their economies and societies. Let's explore what these visions are all about and why they matter.

In the Middle East, business is not just about deals and numbers. It is about relationships. And one of the key ways to build these relationships is through small talk. This might seem strange if you are used to getting straight to business, but in Middle Eastern culture, small talk plays a crucial role. We explore why small talk is so important in Middle Eastern business culture and why it is worth getting help to understand these topics. Let's explore why small talk is so important in Middle Eastern business culture and why it is worth getting help to understand these topics.