Business Etiquette Saudi Arabia: Practical Guide Visitors and Investors

Walking into a Riyadh boardroom without understanding Saudi business culture is like navigating a maze blindfolded. You might eventually find your way through, but you’ll likely bump into walls that could have been avoided with proper preparation.

Saudi Arabia is in the midst of a historic transformation. Vision 2030 is reshaping the Kingdom’s economy, diversifying beyond oil exports and opening doors to foreign investment at an unprecedented scale. With a target of $1.3 trillion in FDI and new sectors emerging from tourism to technology, international business professionals are arriving daily. Yet many still stumble on the fundamentals of saudi arabia business etiquette—the unwritten rules that determine whether deals close or collapse.

This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for navigating saudi business culture in 2024. Whether you’re attending your first meeting in Jeddah, negotiating contracts in Dammam, or building long-term partnerships in the capital, understanding these cultural dynamics isn’t optional. It’s your competitive edge.

Quick essentials for doing business in Saudi Arabia

Before diving into nuances, here’s what you need to know for 2024: the Kingdom is more open than ever, but the core values of respect, patience, and relationship-building remain unchanged.

• Working week and key dates: The Saudi working week runs Sunday through Thursday, with typical office hours from 8:00 to 17:00. In 2024, Ramadan is expected to fall in March–April, followed by Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Adha occurs later in the year, and Saudi National Day on 23 September brings nationwide celebrations. Plan around these dates, as business operations slow significantly during the holy month and major holidays.

• Respect for Islam: Islam shapes every aspect of saudi arabian society. Prayer times (five daily, plus Friday congregational prayers) directly affect scheduling. When the adhan sounds, meetings pause. Expect offices, malls, and restaurants to close briefly for prayer. Modest behaviour in public is non-negotiable.

• Punctuality expectations: Foreign visitors should arrive 10–15 minutes early for business meetings, even knowing that Saudis tend to operate on more flexible timelines. Prepare Arabic-translated materials—even if English is the working language—as this signals respect for local customs.

• Success through relationships: High pressure tactics that work in Western cultures often backfire here. Success in the saudi business world depends on wasta (personal connections), respect for hierarchy, and patience. Deals close after trust is established, not before.

• What’s ahead: The sections below cover everything from greetings and dress code to gift giving and dining—the practical details that separate successful business ventures from missed opportunities.

Cultural foundations of Saudi business etiquette

Understanding business etiquette in Saudi Arabia requires understanding its roots: Islamic principles, tribal traditions, and the modernising forces of Vision 2030.

• Islam in daily life: The Kingdom’s official language may be Arabic, but Islam is its operating system. Five daily prayers structure the day, with Friday’s Jumu’ah prayer holding particular significance. During Ramadan, fasting from dawn to sunset affects energy levels, working hours, and the rhythm of business discussions. Hospitality rituals—from arabic coffee service to elaborate meals—carry religious significance.

• Family, tribe, and region: Saudi society remains deeply collectivist. Personal relationships, extended family networks, and tribal affiliations influence hiring, partnerships, and decision making power. Regional distinctions matter too: Najd (central), Hijaz (western), and the Eastern Province each have their own business cultures and family dynasties.

• Collectivist versus individualistic approaches: Where Western business culture often prioritises contracts, deadlines, and individual accountability, saudi arabian culture emphasises group harmony, relationship continuity, and collective decision-making. A signed contract is important, but the relationship behind it is what makes business operations sustainable.

• Language signals respect: English is widely spoken in business settings, but learning basic arabic phrases demonstrates genuine interest. Greetings, expressions of thanks, and religious phrases like “Bismillah” (In the name of God) go a long way with saudi colleagues.

• Vivid examples: Imagine a 10:30 meeting in Riyadh pausing at 12:15 for Dhuhr prayer, then resuming 25 minutes later with fresh coffee. Or consider an invitation to a majlis gathering at a Saudi partner’s home—a significant relationship milestone that signals trust beyond the office.

Hierarchy and organizational structures

Saudi companies operate on clear hierarchical lines. Understanding who holds real authority is essential for anyone entering this business environment.

• Top-down decision making: Final authority typically rests with the most senior person—often a patriarch, CEO, or board member. Middle managers may attend meetings, take notes, and express enthusiasm, but they rarely have authority to commit. The senior person makes the call, often after consulting privately with family members.

• Titles matter: Use professional titles consistently. Address someone as “Sheikh Ahmed,” “Dr. Al-Rashid,” or “Engineer Fahad” until explicitly invited to use first names (which happens rarely in initial meetings). In written communication, job title and formal address reinforce respect.

• Age and seniority protocols: Defer to older, more senior participants in everything from seating order to speaking sequence. The highest ranking person enters first, sits at the head of the table, and speaks first. Contradicting them publicly would be considered disrespectful.

• Family-owned conglomerates: Many of Saudi Arabia’s largest companies remain family-controlled. This means decisions may require informal consultation with relatives who aren’t in the meeting room. Patience is essential—pushing for immediate answers can damage relationships.

• A cautionary example: A European project manager once left a meeting confident that a deal was secured, based on enthusiastic nods from his Saudi counterparts. What he didn’t realise: the person with decision making power—the company founder’s eldest son—wasn’t present. The deal stalled for three months until proper channels were followed.

Greetings, introductions and business cards

First impressions in saudi culture revolve around warmth, courtesy, and protocol. Getting greetings right sets the tone for everything that follows.

• Standard greeting sequence (men): Approach with “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you), to which the response is “Wa alaykum as-salam” (and upon you be peace). Follow with a handshake using only your right hand—never the left, which is considered unclean in Islamic tradition. Maintain moderate eye contact to convey sincerity, and expect brief inquiries about wellbeing, travel, and family.

• Gender considerations: Only shake hands with women if they clearly extend their hand first. Otherwise, acknowledge with a verbal greeting and a slight nod. Foreign women should follow the same approach with male counterparts—offer a handshake only if comfortable, and don’t be surprised if Saudi men decline, preferring verbal greetings out of religious modesty.

• Greeting by rank: Always address the most senior person first, then proceed right to left around the room. This applies whether entering a boardroom, a majlis, or a restaurant meeting. Skipping the senior person signals either ignorance or disrespect.

• Business card protocol: Cards should be printed in English on one side and Modern Standard Arabic on the other. Present and receive cards with the right hand, positioning the Arabic side facing your saudi counterparts. Include your job title, academic credentials, and a Saudi mobile number if you have one.

• Card handling: Place received cards on the table in front of you rather than immediately pocketing them. This shows you value the connection. Cards featuring “Doctor,” “Engineer,” or other professional titles are taken more seriously.

Punctuality, timekeeping and the Saudi working week

Western “clock time” and Saudi “event-based time” often collide. Understanding this dynamic prevents frustration and demonstrates cultural sensitivity.

• Arrive early, expect delays: Foreign visitors should arrive 10–15 minutes before scheduled face to face meetings. However, meetings may start 30–60 minutes late, or be rescheduled with little notice. This isn’t rudeness—it’s a different relationship with time, where current conversations take precedence over future appointments.

• The working week: Business runs Sunday through Thursday. Government offices typically operate 8:00–14:30, while private sector hours extend to 17:00 or later. Friday is the holy day, with most businesses closed for Jumu’ah prayer. Saturday is increasingly a rest day.

• Prayer time impacts: Schedule meetings with prayer times in mind. A meeting scheduled at 11:30 will likely pause for Dhuhr prayer (around 12:00–12:30 depending on season). Back-to-back meetings are risky because prayer always takes priority.

• Ramadan adjustments: During the holy month, working hours are legally shortened (typically six hours), with most business activity shifting to evenings after iftar (breaking of fast). Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many meetings and social gatherings happen late at night.

• A typical scenario: You arrive at 10:00 for a meeting in Riyadh. Arabic coffee is served. Your host asks about your flight, your hotel, your impressions of the city. At 10:25, the agenda begins. At 10:40, the host takes a phone call from a senior family member. The meeting continues at 10:50. By 11:30, you’ve covered two of five topics, but the relationship foundation is solid. This is normal. This is success.

Relationship-building, small talk and communication style

In saudi business culture, trust and rapport are prerequisites to serious negotiation. Rushing to the agenda signals that you don’t understand what matters.

• Small talk topics: Expect extended discussion about family (in general terms—never ask about female relatives), recent travel, football (especially Saudi Pro League teams), local infrastructure projects, and admiration for Saudi hospitality. Complimenting Saudi Arabia’s development or expressing interest in its history earns goodwill.

• Topics to avoid: Steer clear of domestic politics, the royal family, sectarian issues (Sunni-Shia dynamics), regional conflicts (Yemen, Iran), and any criticism of Islam or social norms. These topics have no place in business discussions.

• Indirect communication: Saudis prefer maintaining harmony over confrontation. Direct refusals are rare. “Inshallah” (God willing) often signals uncertainty rather than firm commitment. “We will study this” may mean no. Learning to read between the lines is essential for understanding saudi counterparts.

• Animated speech: Raised voices and expressive gestures often indicate enthusiasm rather than anger. However, foreigners should remain calm and measured—matching the energy without escalating.

• Rephrasing direct refusals: Instead of “No, that won’t work,” try “This is an interesting approach. Perhaps we could explore alternatives that address [specific concern].” Instead of “Your price is too high,” try “We greatly appreciate this proposal. Could we discuss options that might work within our current framework?”

Business meetings and negotiation etiquette

Business meetings in Saudi Arabia blend hospitality ritual with commercial discussion. Understanding the flow prevents missteps and builds successful business relationships.

• Typical meeting flow: Expect a warm welcome, followed by arabic coffee (qahwa—bitter, cardamom-infused, served in tiny cups) and dates. Sip using your right hand; three sips is polite, then shake the cup gently to signal you’ve had enough. Extended small talk follows—inquiries about health, family, travel. Business agenda items emerge gradually, often 30–45 minutes into the meeting.

• Flexible agendas: Formal agendas exist but aren’t sacred. Interruptions from phone calls or visitors—especially for the senior person—are common practice and not considered rude. Rolling with these interruptions demonstrates flexibility.

• First meetings focus on assessment: Many meetings in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam are primarily about mutual evaluation. Deals rarely close on first contact. Expect several visits, perhaps over months, before meaningful commitments emerge.

• Saudi negotiation style: Saudis tend to be patient, comfortable with silence, and skilled at lengthy back-and-forth. They’re often price-sensitive and will push for favourable terms. High pressure tactics backfire—patience and relationship investment yield better results. Industry anecdotes suggest that foreign firms who host iftar dinners during Ramadan, blending hospitality with subtle business pitches afterward, see significantly higher close rates.

• Follow-up protocols: After meetings, follow up in writing via email and WhatsApp (widely used for business in Saudi Arabia). Understand that final approval often requires signatures from multiple authorities, boards, or family members—digital communication supports but doesn’t replace face to face meetings.

Dress code and professional appearance

Conservative, polished dress signals respect for Saudi norms and professionalism. Getting this wrong can derail meetings before they start.

Who	Expected Attire
Foreign men	Dark or neutral business suit, long-sleeved shirt, tie, polished shoes. Avoid shorts, visible tattoos, or casual wear.
Saudi men	Often wear traditional thobe (white robe) with ghutra or shemagh (headwear). This is formal business attire.
Foreign women	Modest, loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs. Abaya recommended for formal meetings. Headscarf optional but prudent to carry for conservative locations.
Saudi women	Often wear abaya in professional settings; increasingly diverse professional dress in cosmopolitan areas.

• Grooming standards: Neat hair, minimal visible tattoos or piercings, and conservative accessories. Avoid strong fragrances or flashy jewellery—understated elegance is preferred.

• Sector-specific notes: Site visits to NEOM, industrial zones in Jubail or Yanbu, or construction projects may require practical modifications, but maintain modesty. Hard hats don’t excuse shorts.

• A cautionary tale: In 2022, a European consultant arrived at a Riyadh meeting in short sleeves. The meeting was delayed while a jacket was sourced. The consultant’s credibility took a hit before a single word was exchanged.

• Gulf comparisons: Dress codes across the Gulf are similar, though Saudi Arabia remains among the most conservative. Dubai and Bahrain offer slightly more flexibility; Saudi Arabia rewards those who err on the side of formality.

Gift-giving and hospitality

Hospitality flows abundantly in Saudi Arabia—meals, coffee, invitations. Formal gift giving requires more discretion.

• Corporate context caution: In many corporate settings, especially with government officials or state-owned entities, gifts are modest or avoided entirely. Saudi Arabia’s anti-corruption laws mean that anything resembling a bribe creates serious problems. When in doubt, skip the gift.

• Appropriate gifts when suitable: High-quality dates, branded company items, art books, or specialty products from your home country work well. Keep value modest (under SAR 500). Never bring alcohol, pork products, pig leather goods, or anything with sexually suggestive imagery. Avoid clocks (symbolising end of life) and knives (symbolising severed ties).

• Presentation protocol: Present gifts with your right hand, typically at the end of a successful engagement rather than the beginning. Expect polite initial refusals followed by acceptance—this is cultural ritual, not genuine rejection.

• Home invitations: Invitations to Saudi homes, farms (istiraha), or desert camps represent significant relationship milestones. Accept if feasible—these occasions often prove more valuable for building relationships than any boardroom meeting.

• A typical evening: You arrive at your host’s home around 9 PM. Arabic coffee is served immediately, followed by dates. Conversation flows for an hour—no business discussed. Dinner appears around 10:30: platters of kabsa (spiced rice with lamb), grilled meats, bread, and salads. You eat together, using your right hand. By midnight, tea and sweets arrive. Your host mentions a “small matter” related to your proposal. The real conversation begins.

Dining etiquette and social occasions

Meals cement business trust outside formal offices. Understanding the rituals prevents awkward moments and deepens relationships.

• Basic table manners: Always use your right hand for eating and passing food. Wait for the host to say “Bismillah” (In the name of God) before beginning. Accept at least a small portion of everything offered—refusing food is considered disrespectful.

• Typical foods: Guests commonly receive kabsa (national dish of spiced rice with lamb or chicken), grilled meats, hummus, fresh bread, and elaborate sweets. Arabic coffee precedes meals; tea often follows. Expect more food than anyone could possibly eat—abundance signals generosity.

• Alcohol prohibition: Alcohol is completely banned in Saudi Arabia. Never ask for it in restaurants, hotels, or private homes. Don’t bring it as a gift. Don’t joke about it. This applies equally in private settings—penalties for possession are severe.

• Restaurant arrangements: Some restaurants have gender-segregated or family sections. Mixed-gender business meals are increasingly common in Riyadh, Jeddah, and other major cities, but remain context-dependent. Follow your host’s lead.

• Leaving food: Leave a small amount of food on your plate to signal satisfaction—cleaning your plate may prompt hosts to offer more food, thinking you’re still hungry. Never criticise dishes or make unfavourable comparisons with home-country cuisine. If asked your opinion, emphasise appreciation.

Women in Saudi business life

Saudi Arabia has undergone remarkable changes since 2016, with Vision 2030 dramatically expanding women’s economic participation.

• Data points: Female labour-force participation has roughly doubled over the past decade. Saudi women now lead companies, practice law, manage investments, and run government departments. In Riyadh and Jeddah, women-led firms have increased approximately 30% since 2019.

• Guidance for foreign women: Dress professionally and modestly. Define your role clearly in initial meetings—business cards with clear job titles help. Most saudi businesspeople will engage professionally with foreign women, though some traditional sectors may present different dynamics.

• Mixed-gender offices: Many companies now operate mixed-gender offices, particularly in finance, technology, and consulting. However, some sectors remain more traditional, with separate office areas or entrances still existing in conservative environments.

• Normalising women’s leadership: A finance director in Jeddah leads quarterly reviews with international partners. A Saudi entrepreneur pitches her tech startup to visiting investors. These scenarios are increasingly common—not exceptions.

• Avoid outdated assumptions: Research company-specific policies before visits. What applied five years ago may be obsolete. The pace of change is rapid, and assuming restrictions where none exist can be as problematic as ignoring those that remain.

Legal, ethical and religious considerations

Etiquette overlaps with compliance in Saudi Arabia. What’s merely impolite elsewhere can have legal consequences here.

• Anti-corruption vigilance: Facilitation payments, lavish personal gifts, or quid-pro-quo arrangements violate Saudi anti-corruption laws and international standards like the FCPA and UK Bribery Act. Corporate governance expectations are high, particularly with government contracts.

• Public decency code: No public displays of affection, even between spouses. Modest dress in malls, offices, and public spaces. Certain entertainment or media content faces restrictions. These rules apply regardless of nationality.

• Alcohol and drugs: Complete ban. No alcohol in restaurants, hotels, or private settings. No recreational drugs. Penalties for possession or distribution are severe, including imprisonment. This applies to business travel as firmly as to tourism.

• Legal counsel: Consult local legal experts when structuring contracts, sponsorship agreements, or agency relationships. Islamic law influences commercial code, and what works elsewhere may require adaptation.

• Criticism with consequences: Public criticism of Islam, the royal family, or state institutions isn’t merely impolite—it can result in legal action, visa revocation, or worse. Social media posts made from anywhere in the world can create problems if they cross these lines.

Practical tips for first-time business travellers

This checklist-style section provides concrete, action-oriented advice for your first business trip.

• Pre-trip research: Check prayer times and public holidays for your specific dates and cities. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam have slight timing variations. Schedule meetings around prayer times, not across them.

• Bilingual materials: Prepare slide decks and contracts in English and Arabic. For complex negotiations, consider hiring a certified interpreter. This investment signals seriousness and prevents costly misunderstandings.

• Local logistics: Download relevant apps before arrival—major ride-hailing services operate in all major cities. Arrange airport transfers in advance, especially for evening arrivals. Carry cash in Saudi Riyals for small purchases.

• Smartphone etiquette: Turn your ringer off during meetings. Never check messages while the senior person is speaking. However, expect tolerance when your host takes urgent phone calls—this is common practice.

• Build in buffer time: Schedule extra time in your diary for informal coffee, follow-up conversations, and unplanned introductions. Many meetings that initially seem social become business-critical. Flexibility is more valuable than a packed calendar.

• Cultural curiosity: Visit museums, historical sites like Diriyah or Al-Ula, or local markets when possible. This genuine interest in saudi culture becomes valuable conversation material with saudi colleagues and demonstrates respect beyond transactional interest.

Conclusion: Aligning with Saudi etiquette for long-term success

Mastering business etiquette in Saudi Arabia isn’t about memorising rules—it’s about understanding values. Respect for Islamic principles, deference to hierarchy, investment in strong relationships, modesty in appearance and behaviour, and patience in all business dealings: these aren’t optional courtesies. They’re the foundation upon which successful business ventures in the Kingdom are built.

The companies and professionals who thrive in Saudi Arabia recognise that understanding etiquette is a competitive advantage. In a market where personal relationships determine contracts, where decisions flow through family networks and wasta connections, and where trust must be earned before deals are discussed, cultural intelligence separates those who win partnerships from those who wonder why their proposals went unanswered.

Vision 2030 continues to reshape the Kingdom at remarkable speed. Norms that applied a decade ago have evolved; assumptions made even two years ago may need updating. Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Eastern Province each present their own dynamics. Stay current, invest in cultural learning, and approach your saudi counterparts with humility and genuine openness. The doors that open for those who make this effort remain firmly closed to those who don’t. Prepare thoroughly, demonstrate respect consistently, and watch your opportunities in Saudi Arabia multiply.