The Middle East Sunday Pages Archives | Page 4 of 12

Taif: The Summer Sanctuary of Saudi Kings

Tucked away in the Sarawat Mountains and just a short drive from the megacity of Jeddah, the city of Taif offers a refreshing respite from Saudi Arabia's punishing summer heat. It's no wonder then that this scenic highland oasis has long been a favoured summer destination for Saudi kings and their royal entourages escaping the scorching climes. It is also part of a new Summer Initiative by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism called “Your Summer of Discovery”.

With its fragrant rose fields, lush greenery, mild weather, and abundance of historical sites, palaces, and recreation - Taif exemplifies the splendour of an Arabian paradise. Here is an in-depth look at what has made Taif so alluring to royalty and visitors alike for centuries.

Cracking the Code: How to Effectively Advertise Across the Gulf Markets

With a combined population of over 57 million and some of the highest per capita incomes globally, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states present an enticing market for businesses. However, this region comprising the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman is also incredibly diverse and complex when it comes to advertising.

From cultural sensitivities and language differences to regulations and media consumption habits, each country has its own unique nuances that must be carefully navigated. A one-size-fits-all advertising approach simply won't cut it if you want to achieve real impact and returns across the Gulf.

Dubai vs Riyadh

At first glance, the Middle Eastern cities of Riyadh and Dubai may seem to have many similarities. They are both modern, rapidly growing urban centers that have transformed into major regional business hubs. Scratch beneath the surface, however, and you will discover two cities with distinct identities that offer very different experiences and cultures.

Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to set up shop, an expat being transferred for work, or just a tourist - understanding the key contrasts between Riyadh and Dubai is essential.

One crucial piece of advice for business in Saudi

Landing that lucrative contract or big deal in Saudi Arabia requires much more than an impressive pitch deck and competitive pricing. One of the most crucial pieces of advice for doing business in the Kingdom is this: take the time to deeply understand the culture and build strong relationships before ever pitching your products or services.

Why is this so important? Saudi Arabian culture places an extremely high value on personal connections, trust, and commitment.

Shattering Western Stereotypes: Crime in the Gulf States

For many of us from Western nations, our perceptions of the Middle East are often shaped by inaccurate stereotypes perpetuated in movies and media. We envision a region of volatility, uncertainty, and risk. But those who have actually lived and worked in the Gulf know the reality is quite the opposite - particularly when it comes to personal safety and crime rates, which are astoundingly low.

A recent experience a friend of mine had in the UAE drove this point home in the most surprising way. It is a story that exemplifies just how significantly societal attitudes towards crime differ in the Gulf compared to the West. And it provides a mere glimpse into the nuanced cultural insights you need to truly understand this dynamic region.

Beyond Dubai: Discovering the United Arab Emirates’ 7 Distinctive Emirates

When most people envision the United Arab Emirates, the towering skyscrapers and larger-than-life attractions of Dubai immediately come to mind. But this small nation on the Arabian Peninsula is far more diverse and multi-faceted than its most famous Emirate lets on. In fact, the UAE is a federation united by 7 very distinct Emirates, each with its own unique history, culture, and economic drivers.

As a professional considering business endeavors in the UAE, having a well-rounded understanding of the entirety of the country - not just the Dubai bubble - is absolutely critical for success. A narrow scope fails to capture the incredible complexity and opportunity across the 7 Emirates. Let's take a closer look at just how the UAE came to be, and spotlight two lesser-known but rapidly emerging emirates primed for investment.

Beyond the Blazing Heat: 4 Refreshing Summer Escapes in the Gulf

As the summer temperatures start spiking across the Gulf, the idea of spending a few months in the sweltering desert may seem unbearable. But before you write off the entire region as an indoor-only destination until autumn, there are some delightfully cool, lush gems waiting to be discovered. From breezy beach oases to wild mountain retreats, the Gulf is home to plenty of refreshing summer refuges.

As someone who has travelled extensively across the Middle East since 2005, I always make sure to experience these hidden gems firsthand. A bit of inside local knowledge allows me to find this treasures so you can make the most of the hot summer by exploring places that are diverse, interesting and most of all not blazing hot. Read on for four of my top picks for an unforgettable summer in the Gulf.

Navigating Saudi Culture as a Western Woman: Dress, Coffee, and Bukhoor

When it comes to conducting business in the Kingdom, a little cultural guidance can go a long way. As someone who has worked with Saudi Arabian clients for 20+ years, I am here to shed some light on a few key areas - the dress code, the important coffee culture, and the distinct use of bukhoor (incense).

A bit of insight into these traditions can help you engage respectfully and make an excellent impression.

Middle Eastern Father’s Day

In many parts of the world, Father's Day is a cherished occasion dedicated to honoring the invaluable role that fathers play in our lives. In the Middle Eastern region, this celebration holds a unique cultural and traditional significance.

Arafat Day

Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world gather on the plains of Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia to observe one of the most sacred and significant rituals in Islam – Arafat Day. This momentous occasion, which falls on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, marks the climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage and holds profound spiritual and historical significance for Muslims worldwide. In this post we dive into the details of what this means and why this is such an important date.