***UPDATE***
We’ve updated this post to include more information about doing business in the Arab world . You’ll find new language phrases and cultural tips too so check it out now!
Doing business in a foreign country can be daunting and the key to being successful, is preparation. Understanding your clients, prospects or suppliers background, language and culture have never been more important.
As business professionals doing business in the Arab world, it would mean translation from English to Arabic of key marketing materials and business cards, an understanding of Arab culture and knowing a few key phrases to show you have made an effort.
Listed below are some key business phrases from English to Arabic that will help you in meetings and show that you have made an effort.
1.السلام عليكم (Assalaam alaykum) – Peace be upon you (Greeting)
Reply: وعليكم السلام (Wa alaykum assalaam) – and upon you be peace.
2.أهلاً وسهلاً (Ahlan wa sahlan) – Welcome
Reply: أهلاً فيك (Ahlan feek (masc.)/feekee (fem.)
3.فرصة سعيدة (Fursa sa’eeda) – Nice to meet you
4.مع السلامة (Ma’ assalaama) – Goodbye
5.تفضل (Tafadul) – A useful word meaning “there you go”, or “go ahead”. Could be used to gesture for someone to enter or to sit.
6.أين المكتب؟ (Ayn al-maktab?) – Where’s the office?
7.أنا مدير(ة) الشركة (Ana mudeer (masc.)/ mudeera (fem.) ash-sharika) – I am the manager of the company
8.أنا موظف(ة) (Ana muwathaf (masc.)/ muwathafa (fem.)) – I am an employee
9.رحلة عمل (Rehlat ‘amal) – Business trip
10. هذه المرة الأولى لي في دبي (Hathahi al-mara al-oola lee fee Dubai) – This is my first time in Dubai
You will find that trying to use the Arabic language will go a long way and will certainly help in building rapport.
At Creative Word it is our business to help you do business in todays ever evolving business world. Contact us for a free consultation on how we can help you with your requirements.
