Arabic, a language spoken by over 400 million people worldwide, and one of the six official languages of the United Nations is an important language for business professionals to learn. The Arab world includes countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt – all major players in the global economy.
For international business professionals, successfully conducting business in the Arab world means understanding a culture, protocols, and a language which are very different to the UK and Europe.
This is daunting, especially if it is the first time you’ve visited the Arab world, or you’ve previously had limited interaction with Arab stakeholders.
But, as with most things, preparation is key to successful international negotiations.
At Creative Word, we’re experts in the Arabic culture and language, so we’ve gathered together the key language phrases and business culture tips you’ll need for doing business in the Arab world, so you’ll be more prepared.
Key Arabic Business Phrases
Understanding your clients, investors, or suppliers background, language and culture has never been more important in business than it is now.
Below you’ll find the most frequently used Arabic business phrases to assist you in meetings and negotiations with your Arabic counterparts.
This will show you’ve tried to learn some of their language and have an appreciation of their culture.
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 (Tafadal) – 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
11. اسمي… )Esmi…) – My name is…
12. سأتصل بك (saa’tasilu bek) – I’ll call you
13. هذه بطاقتي (hathehi bitaqati) – Here is my business card
14. شكراً (shukran) – Thank you
15. إن شاء الله (inshallah) – if God wills
Arab people tend to be very proud of their heritage and language so showing you have spent valuable time learning about their language and culture, will be appreciated and respected.
You will find that trying to use the Arabic language will go a long way and will certainly help in building a rapport.
Arabic Business Culture Tips
The Arab world is governed by the religion of Islam which impacts everything from daily life to the business world.
Understanding some of the cultural characteristics within the Arab world will help ensure you are considered polite, respectful, and courteous by your hosts or your business counterparts.
The following points are only a guideline but will help you avoid making an innocent faux pas or causing offence.
Business Meetings
• Dress formally and conservatively (women should cover shoulders, upper arms and legs)
• Punctuality is expected
• Small talk is likely as it helps to build good relationships which are central to all business negotiations in the Arab world
• Address counterparts by their titles unless requested to do otherwise
• Meetings are often more fluid than in the West, meaning that people may come and go, or make and receive phone calls
• Arab bosses tend to be fairly paternalistic, so conversation tends to be more personal because of this familiarity
• High pressure tactics are not favoured in the Arab world and can have a negative impact on negotiations
• The working week has changed recently to Monday to Friday, more in line with Western norms. However, some firms may still operate on the old system where Sunday is the start of the week
• Typical working hours may vary too with some firms operating a 9am-5pm, or 7.30am to 3pm, while others may have a long break during the day but remain open until late in the evening. Religious events such as Ramadan may result in shorter working hours throughout their duration
• Contrary to some popular Western beliefs, women hold many positions of power within business, society, and government
At Creative Word, it is our business to help you do business better in today’s ever evolving corporate world.
Contact us now to see how we can help you obtain your objective.
