Culture Archives | Star Cat

Majlis Mastery: Your Guide to Navigating Gulf Business Informalities

In the Gulf region, the concept of "Majlis" transcends mere meetings, embodying a centuries-old tradition that plays a pivotal role in both personal and professional relationships. For those venturing into business in this part of the world, understanding the nuances of the Majlis is not just beneficial—it is essential for building trust and accelerating deal closures. Let's delve into the art of mastering these unique gatherings.

The Flags and Why they matter

The flags of the Gulf countries are rich in symbolism, history, and cultural significance. Each flag tells a unique story about the nation it represents, reflecting the values, traditions, and aspirations of its people. This Sunday we are exploring the flags of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Understanding UAE Commemoration Day

UAE Commemoration Day, observed annually on November 30th in the United Arab Emirates, is a day of profound national significance. Formerly known as Martyrs' Day, this solemn occasion honours the brave Emirati men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation. The roots of this observance can be traced back to the UAE's commitment to defending its sovereignty and contributing to regional stability. On November 30, 1971, the UAE lost its first Emirati soldier, 1st Lieutenant Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, during the "Battle of the Greater Tunb" against Iranian forces. This historical event marked the beginning of a legacy of sacrifice that the UAE remembers and honours on Commemoration Day.

UAE Flag Day: Celebrating the Colours of Unity and Progress

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.

The Liquid Gold of the Gulf: Honey

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.

What is Eid Al-Mawlid?

Eid Al-Mawlid is a special day for many Muslims around the world. It is a time when they celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, who is very important in Islam. This holiday is filled with joy, prayer, and spending time with family and friends. But Eid Al-Mawlid is more than just a celebration - it is a chance for all of us to learn about different cultures and beliefs.

Understanding “Wasta”

If you're doing business in the Middle East, you might hear the word "Wasta" a lot. But what does it mean? And why is it so important? In this post, we will explore the concept of Wasta in Middle Eastern business culture. We will also discuss why it is crucial to understand and how you can get ongoing support from the Star-CaT team.

The Journey to Hajj

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Let’s look at the five pillars of Islam. They include: Declaration of Faith (Shahada), Prayer (Salah), Fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), Almsgiving (Zakat) and Journey to Makkah (Hajj) Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a duty that every Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. This year, Allah granted me the opportunity to fulfill this obligation, and I approached it with a heart full of keenness and devotion.

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.

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.