Education Archives

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.

Prepare for a Business Trip to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, with its rapidly evolving business landscape and ambitious Vision 2030 plan, has become an increasingly attractive destination for international business travellers. Whether you are heading to the bustling capital of Riyadh, the coastal city of Jeddah, or exploring opportunities in emerging economic zones, proper preparation is key to a successful business trip. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for your journey to the Kingdom.

The Rapid Evolution of AI and Technology in the Middle East: Seizing Opportunities for Business Growth

The Middle East is experiencing a technological renaissance, with artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies at the forefront of this transformation. As governments and businesses across the region embrace these innovations, a new era of economic diversification and growth is emerging. This post explores the rapid evolution of AI and technology in the Middle East and provides practical tips for businesses to leverage these advancements. The impact of AI on the Middle Eastern economy is projected to be substantial, with an estimated contribution of US$320 billion by 2030.

Essential Steps to Win Your Middle Eastern Clients Through Marketing in 2025

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the Middle East, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, marketing strategies must adapt to stay ahead of the competition. As we look towards 2025, businesses aiming to capture the attention and loyalty of Middle Eastern clients need to embrace culturally sensitive and technologically advanced approaches. This post will explore the essential steps to win over your Middle Eastern clients through marketing, leaving your competition in the dust.

A Western Leader’s Guide to Saudi Project Management

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.

From Struggle to Success: 3 Steps to finding new Clients in the Middle East in 2025 without spending hours in front of your laptop

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.

The Role of Small Talk in Middle Eastern Business Culture

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.

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.

5 Common Arabic Greetings and Why They Matter in Business

In today's global business world, understanding different cultures is key to success. If you are working with Middle Eastern clients, learning a few Arabic greetings can make a big difference. This post will teach you five common Arabic greetings and explain why it's so important to learn about cultural differences.