Intercultural Business Etiquette

Saudi Arabia
Greetings, titles, business cards
• Men greet men and women greet women with a handshake
(right hand only).
• There is no touching between men and women in public.
• Always give and receive business cards with the right hand.
• It is a good idea to have one side of your business card
translated into Arabic.
Gift giving
• Gifts are not usually given at business meetings. It is best to
avoid giving gifts until a very strong bond has been
established.
• If invited to a Saudi home or someone's office, be aware that it
is not polite to openly admire something which a Saudi owns or
has on display as he/she will feel obliged (most likely
unwillingly) to offer it to you as a gift and may be offended if
you then do not accept it.
• Avoid bringing flowers, alcohol, or perfume as a gift.
• Alcohol and pork are illegal.
• Gifts are not opened in the presence of the giver.