Traditionally, the people of the UAE (who are known as the Emiratis) have had their staple foods as rice, meat, and, seafood. These religions primarily include Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism and Buddhism. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a diverse society. Just like most of the other countries in the world, western culture has played a part in shaping the cuisine of the UAE. See the list of countries on the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) website for up-to-date information on business customs and etiquette (in Dutch). Being familiar with local customs will help you deal successfully with foreign business … The Wells of Memory , 1998. Al-Gurg, Easa. Sometimes we even have difficulty understanding business partners from neighbouring countries. The United Arab Emirates uses the title Sheikh instead of Emir to refer to the rulers of individual emirates. Off all the UAE, Dubai is by far the most Western place. Nevertheless, it is still important to be aware and respectful of some of the differences that might exist. Emirati Culture ... it is still important to be aware and respectful of some of the differences that might exist. Al-Faris, Abdul Razzaq. For more information, contact the economic affairs department in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. The UAE is a considerably modern country in relation to the rest of the Middle East region. 3. Wealth in the Arab culture is respected. An important cultural value of the U.A.E is family. Cultural Emirati foods include chabab bread, Lugaimat (a famous dessert), machboos, and a few others. However, the UAE is tolerant of other religions and accords religious freedom to the expatriate population. The Emirati culture is centered in Islamic United Arab Emirates culture. Doing business is easier if you know the unspoken rules of conduct. Cultural differences in the United Arab Emirates, the Regional Business Developer in the Gulf region. Understanding this distinct culture is paramount for anyone wishing to effectively do business in the Emirates. Some smaller private companies only close on Friday. How should you approach your business partner? Click here for information regarding the UAE response to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Select one or several countries/regions in the menu below to see the values for the 6 dimensions. Are you interested in doing business in the United Arab Emirates? In Arab culture, including the U.A.E, honor is very important and is to be protected at all costs. As such, many traditional attitudes and business practices are evolving towards a more westernised approach. 2. Because those differences might be the principal reason on why these two civilizations couldn’t quite harmonize with each other on certain fundamental objectives. The Foreign Policy of the United Arab Emirates , 1989. Majority of the country’s occupants are Muslims and the rest are Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Persis. You'll be more likely to succeed if you're aware of these differences. The title is used due to the sheikhdom styled governing system in adherence to the culture of tribes of Arabia , where Sheikh means leader, elder, or the tribal chief of the clan who partakes in shared decision making with his followers. Being familiar with local customs will help you deal successfully with foreign business partners. Advice. The Cultural Context – United Arab Emirates by Bob Riel While logistical information and protocol tips are necessary for navigating the day‐to‐day challenges presented by life in a new country, a key to long‐term business success is oneʹs ability to adapt to cultural differences. The country's historical population as a small tribal community that has changed with the arrival of other nationals, in the mid-20th century. Al-Mur, Mohammad. In addition, the Regional Business Developer in the Gulf region has up-to-date information about opportunities for trade, investment and R&D in the United Arab Emirates. The global masses have always tried to distinguis h the culture of Arabs and Americans, why? The religion is therefore Islam. United States and United Arab Emirates living comparison. Various facts, figures, measures and indicators are listed allowing similarities and differences to quickly be examined. 80% of the population is made up of foreign workers, so it is likely that if you work … Go further, discover our cultural survey tool, the Culture Compass™ or join our open programme Introduction to Cross-Cultural Management. UAE Emiratis are predominantly Sunni Muslims and all social and political matters are driven by Sharia (Islamic) law. Mission staff can give you tips and advice. Discuss your training requirements for United Arab Emirates. The United Arab Emirates is a democratic country and adheres to Muslim and Sharia laws. Contact us today Contact us. The country has carefully preserved the country’s culture and heritage, with Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation heading to the United Arab Emirates’ enrichment of art. Al-Hassan, Yusuf. Private offices tend to keep longer hours, adopting either “straight shift” or “split shift.” The former normally requires eight working hours beginning between 7:30am and 9:00am with a lunch break lasting 30 minutes to an hour. For example, fast fo… United States and United Arab Emirates compared side by side. This can help you find your way in the local market. Explore similarities and differences. The latter involves commencing between 9:00am and 10:00am and ending between 8:00pm and 9:00pm, with a th… Arab Culture vs American Culture. United Arab Emirates The United Arab Emirates consists of seven smaller “emirates” similar to states: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah and Umm al Qaiwain. The country was also part of the British Empire until 1971. 80% of the population is made up of foreign workers, so it is likely that if you work in the UAE you will encounter many different cultures. The official weekend in the UAE is on Friday and Saturday. The Welfare State in the United Arab Emirates (in Arabic), 1997. Do you need to follow strict rules on etiquette, or is a relaxed approach the norm? Welcome to the colourful world of Dubai! Although Muslims can proselytise to those of other faiths, it is forbidden for those of other faiths to proselytise to Muslims. The Trucial States of the Persian Gulf coast granted the UK control of their defense and foreign affairs in 19th century treaties. The societal focus in their culture is age and wisdom as opposed to youth and beauty for the Western values. You will meet with different cultures when you start doing business abroad. You can download the 'NL exporteert' app for an interactive map of the world, with information on each country (in Dutch). Higher Education and the Labor Market in the UAE (in Arabic), 1996. Mainly this is due to the influence of the many different cultures living here. Seafood is mostly fish while mutton and lamb are the more common meats. The United Arab Emirates consists of seven smaller “emirates” similar to states: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah and Umm al Qaiwain. Government offices open at 7.30 a.m. and close at 3.00 p.m. Its colours of red, green, white and black represent the unity of the Arab countries. In 1971, six of these states - Abu Dhabi, 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah, Dubayy, and Umm al Qaywayn - merged to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This is less likely to be a problem if we understand their background and culture. Flag: The flag of the United Arab Emirates was adopted in 1971. Yes, there are a lot of cultural differences. Washington, DC 20008 | Site Map | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer Regarding Solicitations. National anthem: The National Anthem of the United Arab Emirates is also known as Ishy Bilady (Long Live my Nation) It was adopted in 1971 when the UAE was first formed and composed by Mohammed Abdel Wahab as an orchestral piece.