What to Know Before Relocating Your Business to Riyadh
Saudi Arabia, having the biggest economy in the Middle East and North Africa, is a key commercial hub that draws in a lot of foreign investment. Of all the Gulf nations, Saudi Arabia’s business scene is the least known to foreigners. The Kingdom’s challenging physical location, cultural conservatism, and stringent religious beliefs can make it challenging for foreigners to navigate through it.
The Saudi way of life may differ slightly from your own. But since you will be staying in the Kingdom for a long time and you want your business operations to be successful, you must familiarize yourself with the customs and business etiquette of the Kingdom. In this blog post, Kingdom International Movers will share a few things that businesses must do now before they relocate to the kingdom. So stay tuned till the end of this blog.
Don’t forget to read our blog titled “How to Avoid Making Moving Mistakes.”
1. Respecting the Local Culture
Islam is the cornerstone of Saudi Arabian society. You must familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of Islamic culture to prevent insulting Muslims or unknowingly hurting their feelings. It is customary to dress conservatively, even if you are not Muslim when you are in the country. When men attend business meetings or the office, they typically dress in suits and ties. Ladies must dress in floor-length gowns or full pants and tops with full sleeves. Women should carry an abaya, as they could be required to wear it to enter certain areas. When you plan your business relocation with Kingdom International Movers in Saudi Arabia, you can ask the experts for further suggestions and tips.
2. Forming Local Connections in Saudi Arabia
Forming connections is the cornerstone of any business in any part of the world. And it is natural that when you move your business to Saudi Arabia, you will want to connect with local businesses and form connections. When men in Saudi Arabia first meet, they always shake hands. Make sure to start with the most senior person in the room and continue with everyone else. If there are females present, wait for them to extend their hands before shaking hands; do not shake hands without first asking them to. When meeting new Saudi business partners for the first time, you will also need to exercise patience. You have to gain Saudi Arabia’s trust before you can conduct business with them. They typically like to spend some time getting to know one another before entering into a formal partnership. However, few businesses will be eager to work with you and form connections themselves. Packers and movers in Saudi Arabia are a prime example of them. Service-based businesses like packers and movers, retailers, and other service providers often form connections with new businesses themselves.
For other businesses Kingdom International Movers suggests you start with small talk. As A small conversation is crucial in the beginning when you are getting to know one another. Talking about families, businesses, culture, and sports is an excellent idea. People will be more likely to pay attention to you if you share your thoughts about the history, achievements, and culture of Saudi Arabia.
3. Be a Part of the Saudi Arabian Culture
Some of the top moving companies in Saudi Arabia suggest that if you want to be a part of a thriving business in the country, actively take an interest in their local culture and traditions. Since English is widely spoken in Saudi Arabia, especially in the business sector, it will be much easier for you to be a part of the Saudi Arabian culture. You will be able to converse with your Saudi rivals more effectively if you can pick up a few Arabic terms and phrases. They will value the time and energy you invested in learning their language as well.
In Saudi Arabia, a major part of developing business relationships is providing your guests with entertainment. Since Saudis enjoy entertaining, it’s essential to accept any invitations you receive, as they view rejection as an insult. You should also extend an invitation to them for lunch and dinner. They will typically be pleased to accept your invitation.
You will also find our blog titled “Moving to Riyadh: The 10 Best Places to Live In”, informative.
4. Recognize Islam as the Foundation of the Country
Ask any movers and packers in Riyadh about establishing a strong business in the country, and they will suggest you respect Islam as much as you can and recognize it as the foundation of the country. You must comprehend the importance of Islam in Saudi Arabia, especially in business. Most residents do not keep their personal and professional lives apart. For them, Islam is an essential part of their spiritual, personal, and professional lives. For instance, it’s customary to schedule gatherings and other activities around times for prayer. Moreover, throughout the holy month of Ramadan, it is forbidden to eat or drink in public (including at places of commerce) during the day. Remember this at all times, and show consideration for the customs and culture of the area.
5. Always Maintain a Healthy Eye Contact
In Saudi Arabia, it’s crucial to meet someone’s eyes when conversing. Be careful to look Saudi men in the eye when you speak with them, as this is regarded as a sign of openness and honesty. Conversely, Saudi women typically avoid making eye contact with strangers. Remember this the next time you meet someone new to avoid offending them.
Also, read a complete guide to moving insurance claims.
6. Always Be Polite
When dealing with foreigners, many Saudi businessmen often ignore small cultural differences. There are some red lines, though, that you must not cross. For instance, never, especially in public, display your soles or argue openly with your host in front of others. Eat with your right hand exclusively, and don’t raise your voice. Movers in Riyadh say that these are some of the basic mannerisms that you are expected to follow in the country.
7. Work with Professionals like Kingdom International Movers
With this blog, we are certain that you now know a lot more about doing business in Saudi Arabia than before. Even if it looks a little difficult at first, with sometime in the country, you will get used to it and have a good time. However, despite all the information, establishing a business in the Kingdom can be difficult at times, and you will need the assistance of professional companies to manage your tasks. Be it moving your home or office or filing for licenses and permits, always work with experienced professionals to have seamless operations in the country. For relocation, you can work with Kingdom International Movers, which is one of the best moving companies in Riyadh.
