It is important to show up to appointments on time. People may even arrive early if they are trying to please the person that they are meeting. However, be aware that you may be kept waiting.
When first entering a room or greeting your Saudi counterparts for the first time, you should shake hands with everyone from right to left (unless they are of the opposite gender).
Professional titles such as ‘Doctor’ or ‘Ustadh’ (teacher) should be used, followed by the person’s first name.
Business cards may be exchanged, but are not essential. Receive and pass business cards with your right hand.
If the meeting is held at your Saudi counterpart’s office, you can expect to be treated very generously. Tea, coffee and sweets are usually served.
The proceedings of Saudi meetings are not very structured. There is rarely a formal agenda or designated chairperson. For example, your Saudi contact may return to a conversation they were having with someone else prior to your meeting, and expect you to wait in the room.
Meetings generally start with a considerable amount of small talk and can seem like a constant round of appointments where people are becoming acquainted.
Meetings are scheduled around daily prayers and will be paused if they interrupt prayer time. Therefore, it is usually best to make appointments in the morning before the midday prayer or after lunch.
There is generally a lack of urgency in business dealings. Decisions are made slowly and can also be overturned easily. Avoid showing frustration or impatience at the process.
Be aware that the person asking the most questions is not always the person with the most responsibility. Try to speak directly to the person with the most decision-making power to save time. If they are not present, you can expect that negotiations will take a lot longer as more background conversations will have to be had after.
It is advisable to repeat your main points to show your conviction. However, avoid making exaggerated claims. Provide concrete evidence to claims and projections where possible. Saudis are more convinced by figures and calculations that can prove the value of a business venture.
Avoid using high-pressure tactics.
Do not openly correct someone or directly criticise someone’s proposal in front of others during a meeting. Take an indirect approach to all corrective remarks to avoid causing offence or embarrassment.
