Middle East Sunday Pages Blog

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.

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.

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.

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.