Are you thinking of doing business in MENA countries? Before deciding to tap into this region, you must try to understand their culture, as there are different cultures in the world. You can not start any business in a foreign land unless you understand its business culture.
The important thing to note is that doing business in MENA countries is different from doing business in the West. The western countries that want to do business in the MENA region have to struggle hard to sign deals and business contracts.
Which Countries Lie in MENA Region
MENA represents the countries of the Middle East and North Africa. This region includes 19 nations which are Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Bahrain, Algeria, Lebanon, Kuwait, Jordan, Israel, Libya, and Morocco. Moreover, it also includes countries of Syria, Tunisia, Yemen, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Sudan and Ethiopia are also a part of the MENA region.
MENA region plays an important role in the international economy. Do you want to know why because this region is bestowed with oil reserves and natural gas? Thus, these countries have formed the organization known as Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Many Middle East countries are included in this organization. If you want to start a business in the Middle East part of the MENA region, then you must take the assistance of professional Arabic translation services. Because Arabic is the official language in many Middle East countries. Another important language spoken in the MENA region is Farsi. People living in Iran speak this language. Therefore, if you want to do business with Iran, then going for professional Farsi translation services can be very beneficial for you.
Economic Stability in the Region
There is economic stability in many of the MENA nations, but now there are some regions that are experiencing armed conflicts. Qatar and Saudi Arabia are facing diplomatic issues that result in many trade sanctions that have made both countries no-fly zones.
Yemen is also facing the repercussions of the Saudi Arabia and Iran war, and it is not ending up in any resolution. Iraq, Libya, Syria, and Yemen are victims of civil war that has damaged their infrastructure. The United States and Russia and Turkey are taking part in military operations in some MENA countries, which are causing economic instability in the region. Here you can take the assistance of Arabic translation services for smooth business operations in the MENA region. It will help you in deciding which country you should do business with.
Calendar Followed in MENA Region
Most of the MENA countries follow the Western Gregorian calendar system. But there are many countries in the MENA region that schedule their weekends on Friday and Saturday instead of Saturday and Sunday. This varies from country to country. Therefore, you must check this before setting up meetings and other business activities on Friday.
The Islamic calendar is also given importance in MENA countries. Two religious festivals are observed not only in the MENA region, but all over the Muslim world. One is held after Ramadan and the other is during the period of Hajj. In this season, people go to offer pilgrimage. During these days, Holidays are given to people.
During Ramadan, there is religious observance of fast-during daylight hours, which means you should not be planning any business-related meetings at the time of Iftar. Many organizations change the office timings to give relief to Muslims. All the non-Muslims respect Ramadan, and you will not find anyone eating during the fasting time.
Considering Cultural Nuances Before Tapping into MENA Region
Before tapping into the MENA region, you must do some research. This is because different business protocols, dress codes, and greetings vary from country to country. For instance, the business etiquette followed in Iran is different from Saudi Arabia. If you want to understand Iran's cultural values, you should hire Farsi translation services. Some of the things that you need to keep in mind for doing business in the MENA region are
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You should establish good relationships and trust before going for any business partnership.
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Hospitality is one way of building good business relationships with stakeholders.
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People preferred modest dress codes, both for men and women. For this, the men wear long sleeves and prefer trousers to shorts. Women's business attire is clothing beneath the knees. Moreover, they can cover the head according to the business environment.
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The majority of MENA countries are Muslims and Islam is their state religion. Muslims pray five times a week, so meetings are not arranged during that time. Muslim festivals hold great significance, so one should be very careful in scheduling the meeting during the festive period.
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In business meetings, Pork or alcohol is never served because it is prohibited in Islam.
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The important thing to note in the MENA region is that female business partner don’t stretch their hand for a handshake unless they are comfortable with it. The same case goes for Western male partners if they are doing business in the MENA region.
Wrapping Up
Knowledge of economic stability and understanding of cultural and regional nuances are very important to start a seamless business operation in foreign countries. If you consider these differences, then you will be welcomed in the business community in the MENA region.
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