International Business Culture

Spain
When attending a business dinner, be prepared to stay up late. Most restaurants do not open until after nine o’clock, and often do not get active until around eleven!
The Spanish dress more formal than many other Europeans. In Spain, it is important to project good taste in apparel.
 The family is the most important thing to people in Spain.
Be prepared for chaotic business negotiations. Often numerous people will be speaking simultaneously.
 Business colleagues often dine together, but different ranks within a company do not mix.

United Arab Emirates
Visitors are expected to abide by local standards of modesty however, do not adopt native clothing. Traditional clothes on foreigners may be offensive.
 Often shoes are removed before entering a building. Follow the lead of your host.
The left hand is considered unclean and reserved for hygiene. Gesture and eat with the right hand. Do not point at another person.
In the Muslim world, Friday is the day of rest.
 The "thumbs up" gesture can also be considered offensive by some.
Gifts are not necessary, but appreciated. If you do give a gift, it will be open in private.
 Do not discuss the subject of women, not even to inquire about the health of a wife or daughter. The topic of Israel should also be avoided. Sports is an appropriate topic.
 Meetings are commonly interrupted by phone calls and visits from friends and family.
 The person at a meeting who asks the most questions is likely to be the least important. The decision maker is likely a silent observer.
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