CONTENTS:

Particulars: Social customs Clothing and food preferences Political patterns Religious and folk beliefs Economics and business Nature of ethics, values and laws Sources

Page No. 02 06 09 13 20 26 30

SOCIAL CUSTOMS
Relationship with others:
The Arab people are very hospitable and will go to great lengths to make guests feel welcome and comfortable. Foreign business executives can expect to be served first and will be ushered first through doorways. If an invitation is extended to a Saudi colleague for a meal or coffee, it is customary for the person who issued the invitation to pick up the bill. Some Saudis will decline an offer at least one time out of politeness. The arrival of guest at ones home is an event that leads to a special meal in honour of the visitor. Traditional etiquette required that sheep,goat or camel be sacrificially slaughtered and this is still often done.

Greetings:
People in Saudi Arabia say salams or if good freinds they hug each other. Muslims also have their own way of greeting people. Like in any other places, men usually shake their hands when they greet. They may also kiss each other on the cheek as a sign of good friendship. Women, on the other hand, hug and kiss their fellow women who are close to them. However, men and women are not allowed to greet each other in public. Men and women who have mutual relationships are also not allowed to display public affection. It may lead to imprisonment. When Muslims greet each other, instead of saying, good morning or hello they say Assalamo Alaikum, which means May peace be upon you and may God's blessings be with you. This greeting makes a Muslim aware that he has to spread love and peace wherever he goes.

Gifting Ettiquette:
When once invited into somebody else's place, the visitor should bring any kind of gift as a thank-you token. But these gifts are never to be opened. Flowers do not make a good gift from a man. Women can give flowers to their hosters. Alcohol can never be given as a gift in Saudi.A foreigner visiting Saudi Arabia should abide and take their laws and culture seriously as much as their local citizens do. Gifts are not necessary, but appreciated. Avoid admiring an item too much, you host may feel obligated to give it to you. When offered a gift, it is impolite to refuse.

Phrases,facial expressions or hand gestures considered rude:

Various social customs are well known in the Kingdom. Arabs traditionally use the right hand for all public functions including shaking hands, eating, drinking, and passing objects to another person. Some of the phrases,facial expressions or hand gestures that are to be avoided are: The left hand is considered unclean and reserved for hygiene avoid gestures with the right hand. Do not point at another person and do not eat with the left hand. Talking with ones hands, or gesticulating wildly, may be considered impolite.

It may be discourteous to ask about a mans wife and daughters. One should ask after his "family and children." The "thumbs up" gesture is offensive. When tea and coffee are served, it could be considered impolite not to take at least one cup. When one is finished drinking, one should oscillate the cup to signal that a refill is not desired. If one is doing business in the Kingdom during Ramadan, it is best to refrain from drinking and eating when in the company of someone observing the fast. Women are not allowed to drive. Avoid showing the sole of the shoe; it is considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. It is not proper to expose bare shoulders, stomach, or legs. It is disrespectful to cross legs. To place the palm down, fingers spread, with your index finger bent down and pointing outward is to insult someone.

Social behavior:
At Restaurants tips aren't included, so leave 10 to 15 percent of the bill. And asking for doggie bags is a no-no in the Middle East; uneaten food is taken home by kitchen staff or given to the homeless.

Avoid eating out on holidays and Saturday nights

You might think its great to get out on a public holiday and experience the fervour created by the joy of a national celebration. That sounds nice in theory, but bear in mind that everyone else thinks the same and, consequently, the sheer volume of customers guarantees that most kitchens will be pushed beyond their ability to produce a high-quality dish. Also, work out which night is the nations Saturday, i.e. when everyone is off work; in the Gulf, for example, the weekend isnt necessarily the same as youre used to. This night will be busy and food preparation will be more rushed.

There are pretty much no sick days in the restaurant business

A busboy with a rent to pay and a child to support isnt going to stay at home and miss out on a days earnings because hes got a cold. I did this job and theres a lot of pressure for you to show up however ill you are. These are the people handling your food. Dont think eating in the restaurant of a Western chain hotel to play it safe when youre newly arrived will help; these places may have 5 stars but they wont have much of a health plan for such members of staff.

Dont swear at the waiter

When a customers displeasure devolves into a personal attack, adulterating food or drink is a convenient way for the server to exact clandestine vengeance. Waiters can and do spit in peoples food. The way people knew when it was done was when the person is overly nice to the bugger whod complained. Some people would even spice up dishes with any bodily fluid they could muster up. A little respect will go a long way.

Dont snap your fingers to get a waiters attention

By snapping your fingers it will want them to go out of their way to ignore you. Look at how other people attract the attention of a waiter and youll soon find out whats appropriate. This may seem like a long way off swearing at the waiter but it isnt. Waiters would take the maximum time possible in dealing with anyone who snapped fingers at them.

Dont order stuff that isnt on the menu

Youre forcing the person doing the cooking to do something they dont make on a regular basis. If they make the same meal thousands of times a month, the odds are good that the dish will be a good every time. If you want something thats a bit like what youd get back home and expect them to make it either taste good or be cooked proficiently, then good luck to you.

If you find a waiter you like, always ask to be served by them

Tell all your friends so theyll start asking for that server as well. Youve just made that waiter feel valued and look indispensable to the owner. Dont forget this: In many countries waiting is a career. The server will be grateful, keep an eye out for you, tell you when something has been burned by the cook and generally take good care of you.

If you cant afford to leave a tip, you cant afford to eat in the restaurant
Waiters remember people who dont tip. However, if your bill is 10 units of local money and all you have in your pocket is a 10 or a 100, its OK to tell the waiter that their tip depends on being able to give you change from the 100, and that giving you a 5 as the smallest note wont do it. This is typical waiter manipulation and is not on. Basically, treat others as you want to be treated. Respect the people doing your cooking and serving for you, even though youre paying for the privilege.

Social setting:
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 Names are often confusing. Its best to get the names (in English) of those you will meet, speak to, or correspond with before hand. Find out both their full names and how they are to be addressed in person. Communications occur at a slow pace. Do not feel obligated to speak during periods of silence. "Yes" usually means "possibly"..

Business setting:
Saudi businesses are unlikely to finalize any serious negotiation without such a face-to-face meeting, as doing business in the Kingdom is still mostly personal. Proper attire at business meetings is essential, as it is a sign of respect for the person with whom you are meeting. Conservative business suits are recommended. Business cards exchanged are usually printed in English on one side and Arabic on the other. Meetings are conducted at a leisurely pace, with the parties involved enjoying cordial discussion over coffee and tea. Saudi business executives like to feel comfortable with their business partners before agreements or contracts are signed. This can mean a number of initial meetings where no substantive business is discussed. However, these meetings can be as important as serious business negotiations. Substantial time should be allotted for such business appointments, as they are often long in duration. Saudi business executives are also prone to welcome visitors and outside phone calls during such meetings; a lack of privacy is not uncommon in personal appointments. Confidentiality is likely to increase when it comes time to actually finalize an agreement. Saudi custom regarding greetings is rather ritualized. When entering a meeting full of people, a Saudi will greet each person individually with a handshake while standing. The same is expected of visitors. Learning some appropriate Arabic phrases for such occasions is appreciated.

When engaged in conversation, Saudis tend to stand much closer to one another than Americans, North Europeans, and East Asians do. Their conversational distance is more similar to that of Latin Americans and Southern Europeans. Arabs will also employ some body contact to emphasize a point or confirm that they have your attention. It is important not to draw back, however. This may be interpreted as a rebuff or rejection of what is being said. Respect is a value that is held very highly by the Arab people, and this shows in both business and social settings.

AISHWARYA SANKARAN

Clothing and food preferences

Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday. During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times. Colors are associated with Mourning and Joy: Mourning Yellow Joy Orange

CLOTHING
Men

Men must have everything from the navel to the knee covered. Short sleeves are considered to be acceptable in the work place. The displaying of shortened pant (shorts) is not considered appropriate business attire.

A wool cloak is appropriate to wear at special events. A typical ensemble would include a (Thobe), (Ghuttera), and (Aqal).

Women

All females may wear what they wish, except it must cover their feet, hands and face. Although women may wear what they want, they must also cover their entire body in a (Abaya) and a head scarf when shown in a public place.

JEDDAH: Many Saudi women borrow their friends belongings when attending an
occasion. Most of these women exchange clothing, jewelry, accessories, and even cars.

DINNING ETIQUETTES
Knowing dinning etiquette is very important especially when you are visiting or doing business in a different country with different cultural values. In Saudi Arabia, the culture is founded on Islamic principles, which means there is a restriction on eating pork or consumption of alcohol. Before one starts to eat, they should say sahtain (bon apptit) or Bismillah ( In the name of God). When guests are finished with the mean they should say Daimah (May there always be plenty at your table) or Hamdullah ( Thanking God for the mean). When meeting with the Saudis, they will normally take their guests to restaurants, if they do not know them very well. Once they get to know their guests, they might be invited to the Saudis house. Entertainment is usually same-sex only, but if both sexes are invited, they will be in separate rooms. Once the guest is invited into the home of the Saudi one would: Try to arrive at the appropriate time, even though time is not critical. Remove their shoes when entering the house. Dress conservatively, especially the women, It is considered rude if you do not greet the elderly first when arriving.

Guests should always accept the coffee or drink that is being served.

If guests are invited to eat a meal at the house, they should expect that there will be socializing before the meal is served. While eating: If the meal is served on the floor, the guest should sit crossed legged on the floor or kneel down on one knee. You should only use your right hand while eating since the left hand is considered unclean. Your left hand should be at your side and never be placed on the table. Most people in Saudi Arabia do not use utensils, if there are not presented on the table; one is expected to use their fingers while eating. If ladies are dining with males, they should never pass or serve food to another male, other than her immediate family. After the meal, it is customary to sit and talk. If you try to leave, the host will say that it is too early to leave, so it is polite to stay a little while longer. Once ice water or something cool is served the guest can know that it is almost time to leave.

ABILASH C.R.K.

POLITICAL PATTERNS
Political Scenario
The historical journey which led to the foundation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was notably one of triumph and misfortune. Prior to the emergence of Islam, the peninsula was divided between various nomadic Arab tribes and subject to invasion from a number of outside cultures. The creation of modern Saudi Arabia dates from 1932 when the late King Abdul Aziz AL-Saud unified the surrounding regions as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The discovery of oil on March 3rd, 1933 and takeover of Saudi Aramco by the Saudi Government in 1953 transformed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from a purely trade-based economy to the largest exporter of petroleum in the world. This economical revolution paved the way for a greater industrial base and opened up the country to the business world.

GOVERNMENT AND THE ROYAL FAMILY

The central institution of Saudi Arabian Government is the absolute Islamic monarchy. The Basic Law adopted in 1992 declared that Saudi Arabia is a monarchy ruled by the sons and grandsons of King Abdul Aziz Al Saud, and that the Holy Qur'an is the constitution of the country, which is governed on the basis of Islamic law (Shari'a). The king Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud combines legislative, executive, and judicial functions and royal decrees form the basis of the country's legislation. The king is also the prime minister, and presides over the Council of Ministers (Majlis al-Wuzar), which comprises the first and second deputy prime ministers (usually the first and second in line to the throne respectively) and 23 ministers with portfolio and five ministers of state. The king makes appointments to and dismissals from the Council, which is responsible for such executive and administrative matters. Government is dominated by the vast royal family, the Al Saud, which has often been divided by internal disputes and into factions. The members of the family are the principle political actors. Political participation outside of the royal family is limited. Decisions in the kingdom to a large extent, made on the basis of consultation among the senior princes of the royal family and the religious establishment (ulema). In November 2006, King Abdullah established an Allegiance Commission that will select future kings and crown prince, a step designed to help formalize the selection process.

GULF WAR
The Iranian Revolution affected the political stability of the Kingdom. Budget deficit of $10b in 1994 affected the image of the oil rich nation in the global environment. The Gulf War of 1991 has also permanently fractured the legitimacy of the Saudi dynasty. The aid of the United States during that period did dissipate form the collective memory of the Saudi citizenry, or it has been derided so regularly by the neo-Muahids as an excuse for converting their country into a permanent American base that a large number of people currently believe it.

OTHER FACTORS
Corruption among the elite is also rampant in Saudi Arabia. The excesses of the Saudi royal family, which has grown to include almost 7,000 members, are less visible under Abdullah's reign than under that of his flamboyant predecessor King Fahd. Saudi Arabia's leadership is remarkably old compared with its young population. Until now, all of the men who have ruled the country since the death of its founder Ibn Saud in 1953 have been his sons. Even the youngest of the sons is now 65. The overwhelming majority of the population is strongly influenced by tribal loyalties and by a deeply conservative worldview derived from Wahhabism, one of the strictest schools of Islam. It is mainly the half of the population without rights that suffers as a result, namely women. Industrial hubs like Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran provides for major employment opportunities for Saudis and foreigners alike. Recent increase in the unemployment numbers have led the kingdom to claim that Saudi nationals are unemployed not because of no jobs but because most work is performed by foreign migrant workers. Oppression of the press is prevalent even today. Criticism of the royal family, the government and the religious tenets are not tolerated. All TV channels and newspapers are under the control of the Government. Numerous internet sites are blocked and this has resulted in the increase in number of bloggers in the Kingdom. This platform has given women some leeway to express themselves freely.

REFORMS IN POLITICAL SYSTEM

Despite its pre-modern, antiquated system of government, the kingdom is considered to be one of the most stable countries in the Arab world. Over the years the Kingdom has taken many initiatives to improve the political and social well being of its citizens. Many councils and steps to enhance security in the Arab region have proven effective. During the period of King Faisal (1964 1975) major economic, technological and governmental progress was witnessed. The present King Abdullah, who came to the throne in 2005, is seen as a reformer and has introduced economic reforms (limited deregulation, encouragement of foreign investment, and privatization) and made modernizing changes to the judiciary and government ministries.

SUCCESSFUL MODELS
The Saudi model espouses rehabilitation programmes led by second deputy premier and Minister of Interior Prince Nayef Bin Abdul Aziz and his son Prince Mohammad. Political, economic, judicial, educational and social reforms have all focused on man as the primary target. In the domain of "openness," Abdullah launched his initiative for national dialogue based on Sharia values. In the political arena, the Kingdom was able to preserve its pattern of moderation, balance, wisdom and far-sightedness to serve Islam and Muslims.

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 The Kingdom has also established its relations with all nations on the basis of mutual respect and non-interference. At an international level, King Abdullah launched his inter-faith initiative to achieve peaceful dialogue among all religions. Many of the government establishments were restructured and new blood was infused in religious institutions, the Shura council and regional councils. In 2005, the first municipal elections were held. In 2007, the Allegiance Council was created to regulate the succession. In 2009, the king made significant personnel changes to the government by appointing reformers to key positions and the first woman to a ministerial post. King Abdullah's reforms centre on the fields of human rights, women and press freedom and have been received positively by the international community. Contrary to the situation in many third world countries, the relationship between the citizen and the rulers in the Kingdom has been characterised by stability. Though the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (oil rich nation) is still considered as a very conservative society, the reforms brought out by the numbers of rulers have helped the nation to progress in the right direction till date. But now, Saudi Arabia is on the verge of a major dynastic change. Saudi Arabia's leadership is remarkably old compared with its young population. The average age of a cabinet minister in Riyadh is 65. This situation poses a cloud of uncertainty over the future stability and ruling of the Kingdom.

CONDUCTING BUSINESS IN SAUDI ARABIA

The Saudi market represents both a challenge and an opportunity for foreign businesses. The kingdom is not an overly large market with a population of over 20 million. However it lies in the far larger regional market. The Saudi market is also characterised by consumers with high disposable income. The large number of population is aged under 20 will likely substantially increase the demand for consumer goods and products in the coming years. Saudi Arabia is a major exporter of oil. It imports a wide range of machinery, chemicals and food products from around the world. There are very good prospects for companies who want to export their products to Saudi Arabian market. Ranging from food chains to retail brands is being set up in the Kingdom. Many Saudi companies are active in numerous product lines. Advertising is a rapidly expanding business in the Kingdom, and is crucial in obtaining market share and retail sales. Saudi women are now seen developing professional careers as doctors, teachers and even business leaders. Prominent examples include Dr. Salwa Al-Hazzaa, head of the ophthalmology department at King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh and Lubna Olayan, named by Forbes and Time as one of the world's most influential businesswomen. Women are allowed to hold positions on boards of chambers of commerce. In 2008, two women were elected to the board of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In 2010, the government announced female lawyers would be allowed to represent women in family cases.

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For those wishing to do business with Saudi Arabia an understanding of Saudi etiquette and the personal manner in which business is conducted is essential for success. Business appointments in Saudi Arabia are necessary. However, some Saudi business executives and officials may be reluctant to schedule an appointment until after their visitors have arrived. Appointments should be scheduled in accordance with the five daily prayer times and the religious holidays of Ramadan and Hajj. It is customary to make appointments for times of day rather than precise hours as the relaxed. Hospitable nature of Saudi business culture may cause delays in schedule. The Saudi working week begins on Saturday and ends on Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are the official days of rest. Time is not an issue but we will be expected to arrive at appointments on time. Greater respect must be shown to elders at all times. When first entering a room for a meeting shake hands with the most senior person first. There exists a distinct dichotomy between subordinates and managers within Saudi Arabian companies. Those with most authority are expected and accepted to issue complete and specific directives to others. Saudi Arabian business people prefer face-to-face meeting, establishing trust is an essential part of Saudi business culture. This is the key to success in business deals. Respect and friendship are values that are held very highly by the Arab people. Due to their cultural set up family influence and personal connections often take precedence over other governing factors.

GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS
As an oil rich country, Saudi Arabia is known for its oil reserves and exports to the rest of the world. Traditionally Government does not own any institution but since the discovery of oil in the region it has held a major share in the Saudi Aramco (the state-owned national oil company) The other important government institutions are: Allegiance Council Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (Saudi Arabia) National Security Council (Saudi Arabia) Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency Saudi Geological Survey Capital Market Authority (Saudi Arabia)

SOCIAL CONVERSATION
Conversation should usually commence in a good-humoured tone with general talk, often about the health of the other person. Do not discuss the subject of women, not even to inquire about the health of a wife or daughter. Trying to monopolise a conversation is considered impatient and rude. Religion, politics should be avoided as Saudis do not discuss these with strangers. The topic of Israel should also be avoided.

S SHRIVIDHYA

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RELIGION
Early Development of Islam
The vast majority of the people of Saudi Arabia are Sunni Muslims. Islam is the established religion, and as such its institutions receive government support. In the early seventh century, Muhammad, a merchant from the Hashimite branch of the ruling Quraysh tribe in the Arabian town of Mecca, began to preach the first of a series of revelations that Muslims believe were granted him by God through the angel Gabriel. He stressed monotheism and denounced the polytheism of his fellow Meccans. Because Mecca's economy was based in part on a thriving pilgrimage business to the Kaaba, the sacred structure around a black meteorite, and the numerous pagan shrines located there, Muhammad's vigorous and continuing censure eventually earned him the bitter enmity of the town's leaders. In 622 he was invited to the town of Yathrib, which came to be known as Medina (the city) because it was the center of his activities. The move, or hijra, known in the West as the hegira, marks the beginning of the Islamic era. The Muslim calendar, based on the lunar year, begins in 622. In Medina, Muhammad--by this time known as the Prophet--continued to preach, defeated his detractors in battle, and consolidated both the temporal and spiritual leadership of all Arabia in his person before his death in 632. After Muhammad's death, his followers compiled those of his words regarded as coming directly from God into the Quran, the holy scripture of Islam. Other sayings and teachings of his and his companions as recalled by those who had known Muhammad, became the hadith. The precedent of his personal deeds and utterances was set forth in the sunna. Together the Quran, the hadith, and the sunna form a comprehensive guide to the spiritual, ethical, and social life of an orthodox Sunni Muslim. During his life, Muhammad was both spiritual and temporal leader of the Muslim community; he established Islam as a total, all-encompassing way of life for individuals and society. Islam traditionally recognizes no distinction between religion and state, and no distinction between religious and secular life or religious and secular law. A comprehensive system of religious law (the sharia) developed during the first four centuries of Islam, primarily through the accretion of precedent and interpretation by various judges and scholars. During the tenth century, however, legal opinion began to harden into authoritative doctrine, and the figurative bab al ijtihad (gate of interpretation) gradually closed, thenceforth excluding flexibility in Sunni Islamic law. After Muhammad's death, the leaders of the Muslim community chose Abu Bakr, the Prophet's father-in-law and one of his earliest followers, as caliph, or successor. At the time, some persons favored Ali, the Prophet's cousin and husband of his daughter Fatima, but Ali and his supporters (the so-called Shiat Ali or Party of Ali) eventually recognized the community's choice. The next two caliphs--Umar, who succeeded in 634, and Uthman, who took power in 644--were acknowledged by the entire community. When Ali finally succeeded to the caliphate in 656, Muawiyah, governor of Syria, rebelled in the name of his murdered kinsman Uthman. After the ensuing civil war, Ali moved his capital to Mesopotamia, where a short time later he, too, was murdered. Ali's death ended the period in which the entire community of Islam recognized a single caliph. Upon Ali's death, Muawiyah proclaimed himself caliph from Damascus. The Shiat Ali, however, refused to recognize Muawiyah or his line, the Umayyad caliphs; in support of a caliphate based on descent from the Prophet, they withdrew and established a dissident sect known as the Shia.

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Originally political in nature, the differences between the Sunni and Shia interpretations gradually assumed theological and metaphysical overtones. Ali's two sons, Ahsan and Husayn, became martyred heroes to the Shia and repositories of the claims of Ali's line to mystical preeminence among Muslims. The Sunnis retained the doctrine of the selection of leaders by consensus, although Arabs and members of the Quraysh, Muhammad's tribe, predominated in the early years. Reputed descent from the Prophet continued to carry social and religious prestige throughout the Muslim world in the early 1990s. Meanwhile, disagreements among Shia over who of several pretenders had a truer claim to the mystical powers of Ali produced further schisms. Some Shia groups developed doctrines of divine leadership far removed from the strict monotheism of early Islam, including beliefs in hidden but divinely chosen leaders with spiritual powers that equaled or surpassed those of the Prophet himself. The main sect of Shia became known as Twelvers because they recognized Ali and eleven of his direct descendants. The early Islamic polity was intensely expansionist, fueled both by fervor for the new religion and by economic and social factors. Conquering armies and migrating tribes swept out of Arabia, spreading Islam. By the end of Islam's first century, Islamic armies had reached far into North Africa and eastward and northward into Asia. Although Muhammad had enjoined the Muslim community to convert the infidel, he had also recognized the special status of the "people of the book," Jews and Christians, whose scriptures he considered revelations of God's word that contributed in some measure to Islam. Inhabiting the Arabian Peninsula in Muhammad's time were Christians, Jews, and Hanifs, believers in an indigenous form of monotheism who are mentioned in the Quran. Medina had a substantial Jewish population, and villages of Jews dotted the Medina oases. Clusters of Christian monasteries were located in the northern Hijaz, and Christians were known to have visited seventh-century Mecca. Some Arabic-speaking tribal people were Christian, including some from the Najdi interior and the well-known Ghassanids and Lakhmids on the Arabian borderlands with Constantinople. Najran, a city in the southwest of present-day Saudi Arabia, had a mixed population of Jews, Christians, and pagans, and had been ruled by a Jewish king only fifty years before Muhammad's birth. In sixthcentury Najran, Christianity was well established and had a clerical hierarchy of nuns, priests, bishops, and lay clergy. Furthermore, there were Christian communities along the gulf, especially in Bahrain, Oman, and Aden (in present-day Yemen). Jews and Christians in Muslim territories could live according to their religious law, in their communities, and were exempted from military service if they accepted the position of dhimmis, or tolerated subject peoples. This status entailed recognition of Muslim authority, additional taxes, prohibition on proselytism among Muslims, and certain restrictions on political rights.

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Places and Sacred Sites in Saudi Arabia

Below is an illustrated index of the sacred sites and religious places in Saudi Arabia profiled so far on Sacred Destinations, listed in alphabetical order by name.

Al-Masjid al-Haram (The Holy Mosque) Mecca The holiest mosque in the world, the Haram Mosque has been much expanded from its original 7thcentury form. Today it can accommodate up to 820,000 worshippers in air-conditioned comfort.

The Ka'ba Mecca The Ka'ba is believed to have been built by Abraham and his son Ishmael. Enshrining a sacred stone, it is said to be first place on earth that was created. It is the directional focus of worldwide Muslim prayers. The Prophet's Mosque Medina This huge mosque stands over the site of the Prophet Muhammad's house and tomb and is the second holiest mosque in the world after al-Haram in Mecca.

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Tolerance for minority religion

The country is ruled by a monarchy with a legal system based on Islamic law (Shari'a). The Government does not provide legal protection for freedom of religion, and such protection does not exist in practice. Islam is the official religion, and the law requires that all citizens be Muslims. The Government prohibits the public practice of non-Muslim religions. The Government recognizes the right of non-Muslims to worship in private; however, it does not always respect this right in practice and does not define this right in law. There generally was no change in the status of religious freedom during the period covered by this report, although the Government continued a campaign to foster greater moderation and tolerance of religious diversity. The Government enforces a strictly conservative version of Sunni Islam. Muslims who do not adhere to the officially sanctioned Salafi (commonly called "Wahhabi") tradition can face severe repercussions at the hands of the Mutawwa'in (religious police). The Government continued to detain Shi'a leaders. Members of the Shi'a minority continued to face political and economic discrimination, including limited employment opportunities, little representation in official institutions, and restrictions on the practice of their faith and on the building of mosques and community centers. The Government has stated publicly that its policy is to allow non-Muslims to worship privately; however, this policy is not consistently enforced, resulting in the violation of some non-Muslims' freedom of worship and causing other non-Muslims to worship in fear of harassment and in such a manner as to avoid discovery. During the period covered by this report, senior government officials made some efforts to improve the climate of tolerance toward other religions and within Islam. The Government convened a second and third session of the "National Dialogue" meeting that included members of different Muslim traditions and both men and women and issued statements condemning incitements to violence. The session released a set of recommendations that called for educational reform and development of tolerance and moderation in education. The Government also took measures to remove what it deemed to be disparaging references to other religious traditions from the educational curriculum. In addition, increased press freedom permitted journalists to criticize publicly abuses by the religious police. However, religious discrimination and sectarian tension in society continued during the period covered by this report, including denunciations of non-Muslim religions from government-sanctioned pulpits. In January and February, the country hosted approximately 2 million Muslim pilgrims from around the world and all branches of Islam for the annual hajj pilgrimage. The majority of citizens support a state based on Islamic law, and many oppose public non-Muslim worship, although there continued to exist differing views regarding how this should be realized in practice. There continued to be societal discrimination against members of the Shi'a minority. The U.S. Government discusses religious freedom issues with the Government as part of its overall policy to promote human rights. Senior administration officials continued to raise U.S. concerns with the Government. In September 2004, the Secretary of State designated Saudi Arabia as a "Country of Particular Concern" under the International Religious Freedom Act for particularly severe violations of religious freedom.

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Business
Doing Business in Saudi Arabia The historical journey which led to the foundation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was notably one of triumph and misfortune. Prior to the emergence of Islam, the peninsula was divided between various nomadic Arab tribes and subject to invasion from a number of outside cultures. The creation of modern Saudi Arabia dates from 1932 when the late King Abdul Aziz AL-Saud unified the surrounding regions as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To this day the monarchy remains the central institution of the Saudi Arabian Government, governed on the basis of Islamic law (Sharia). The discovery of oil on March 3rd, 1953 transformed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from a purely tradebased economy to the largest exporter of petroleum in the world. This economical revolution paved the way for a greater industrial base and opened up the country to the business world. For those wishing to do business with Saudi Arabia an understanding of Saudi etiquette and the personal manner in which business is conducted is essential to success.

Working practices in Saudi Arabia o Generally speaking, business appointments in Saudi Arabia are necessary. However, some Saudi business executives and officials may be reluctant to schedule an appointment until after their visitors have arrived. Appointments should be scheduled in accordance with the five daily prayer times and the religious holidays of Ramadan and Hajj. It is customary to make appointments for times of day rather than precise hours as the relaxed and hospitable nature of Saudi business culture may cause delays in schedule. o The Saudi working week begins on Saturday and ends on Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are the official days of rest. Office hours tend to be 0900-1300 and 1630-2000 (Ramadan 2000-0100), with some regional variation. o The concept of time in Saudi Arabia is considerably different to that of many Western cultures. Time is not an issue; therefore Saudi Arabians are generally unpunctual compared to Western standards. Despite this, it is unusual for meetings to encroach on daily prayers and you will be expected to arrive at appointments on time. Structure and hierarchy in Saudi Arabian companies. o There exists a distinct dichotomy between subordinates and managers within Saudi Arabian companies. Those with most authority are expected and accepted to issue complete and specific directives to others. o Age plays a significant part in the culture of Saudi Arabia. For this reason, greater respect must be shown to elders at all times. When first entering a room for example, or greeting your Saudi counterparts for the first time, you should shake hands with the most senior person first. Working relationships in Saudi Arabia o Saudi Arabian business people prefer face-to-face meetings, as doing business in the Kingdom is still mostly done against an intensely personal background. o Establishing trust is an essential part of Saudi business culture; therefore cultivating solid business relationships before entering into business dealings is key to your success. o Respect and friendship are values that are held very highly by the Arab people. In a business setting, favours based on mutual benefit and trust are ways of enhancing these cultural values. Due to the personal nature of business in Saudi Arabia, family influence and personal connections often take precedence over other governing factors.

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Business practices in Saudi Arabia o The customary greeting is As-salam alaikum, (peace be upon you) to which the reply is Wa alaikum as-salam, (and upon you be peace). When entering a meeting, general introductions will begin with a handshake. You should greet each of your Saudi counterparts individually, making your way around the room in an anticlockwise direction. However, it is generally uncommon for a Muslim man to shake hands with a woman therefore; it is advisable for business women to wait for a man to offer his hand first. o Business cards are common but not essential to Saudi Arabian business culture. If you do intend to use business cards whilst in Saudi Arabia ensure that you have the information printed in both English and Arabic. o Initial business meetings are often a way to become acquainted with your prospective counterparts. They are generally long in duration and discussions are conducted at a leisurely pace over tea and coffee. Time should be allocated for such business meetings, as they are an essential part of Saudi Arabian business culture. o Gift giving in Saudi Arabia is appreciated but not necessary. Gifts are generally only exchanged between close friends and are seen as rather personal in nature. It is also advised to refrain from overly admiring an item belonging to another, as they may feel obliged to give it to you. In the event that you are offered a gift, it is considered impolite and offensive if you do not accept it.

Saudi Arabian business etiquette (Do's and Don'ts)

DO address your Saudi Arabian counterparts with the appropriate titles Doctor, Shaikh (chief), Mohandas (engineer), and Ustadh (professor), followed by his or her first name. If unsure, it is best to get the names and correct form of address of those you will be doing business with before hand. The word "bin" or "ibn" (son of) and bint (daughter of) may be present a number of times in a persons name, as Saudi names are indicators of genealogy. DO abide by local standards of modesty and dress appropriately. As a sign of respect, it is essential to wear the proper attire during business meetings in Saudi Arabia. For men, conservative business suits are recommended. Women are required to wear high necklines, sleeves at least to the elbow, and preferably long skirts below the knee. DO maintain strong eye-contact with your Saudi counterparts and expect a closer distance during conversation in both business and social settings. Both forms of communication are ways in which to strengthen trust and show respect in Saudi Arabia. DONT appear loud or overly animated in public. This type of behaviour is considered rude and vulgar. It is important to maintain and element of humility and display conservative behaviour at all times. DONT rush your Arabian counterparts during business negotiations. Communications occur at a slower pace in Saudi Arabia and patience is often necessary. DONT assume during business meetings that the person who asks the most questions holds the most responsibility. In Saudi Arabia this person is considered to be the least respected or least important. The decision maker is more often than not a silent observer. For this reason, if you are in a business meeting, it is advised not to ask all the questions.

Prohibit eating specific food

In Islam, there are mainly two terms that mean Islamic prohibition or restriction on food: Haram and Halal. For example, Muslims are prohibited from consuming pork and alcohol because they are regarded as Najis (unclean) in Islamic thinking, and they are the examples of Haram. (El-Mouelhy, 1996) As another example, for Muslim consumers, beef and poultry products must be certified as Halal, and they must originate from slaughterhouse that follow Islamic slaughter practices. (Fleck, 1998) Therefore, the religious affiliations of the 20.7 million population have an important impact on

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food consumption in Malaysia because it is a quite multiracial nation. (Fleck, 1998) For example, the 60% of the population are the Malay, and they are mostly Muslims. The following will focus on the Halal beef trade between Malaysia and the United States. First, the concept of Halal will be introduced, which is including the Koranic source of Halal, the appropriate way of slaughter and the brief mention of Halal food market in the world. Then, mainly, the U.S. official requirements on the beef export into Malaysia will be described with Halal aspects. Finally, mainly, Malaysian official requirements on the beef import will be explained with Halal aspects.

In Islam, like prayer and other religious activities, eating is regarded as a matter of worship of God. Muslims eat to maintain good health in order to be able to contribute their knowledge and efforts for the welfare of society. (El-Mouelhy, 1996) Therefore, all foods are considered lawful unless the Koran or the Hadith (Islamic bible and textbook) prohibit specific products. (El-Mouelhy, 1996) As state above, according to the current Islamic thinking, some food such as pork and alcohol are completely prohibited consuming, and they are called Haram. (El-Mouelhy, 1996) On the other hand, Halal foods are those that

"free from any component that Muslims are prohibited from consuming." "free from anything considered Najis (unclean) according to Shriah (law)." "processed or prepared with apparatus or equipment free from things considered Najis." "free from contamination while prepared or processed with anything considered Najis."

Taboo food and drink are food and beverages which people abstain from consuming for religious, cultural or hygienic reasons. Many food taboos forbid the meat of a particular animal, including mammals, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, bony fish, and crustaceans. Some taboos are specific to a particular part or excretion of an animal, while other taboos forgo the consumption of plants, fungi, or insects. Food taboos can be defined as rules, codified or otherwise, about which foods or combinations of foods may not be eaten and how animals are to be slaughtered. The origins of these prohibitions and commandments are varied. In some cases, these taboos are a result of health considerations or other practical reasons.[1] In others, they are a result of human symbolic systems.[2] Some foods may be prohibited during certain festivals (e.g., Lent), at certain times of life (e.g., pregnancy), or to certain classes of people (e.g., priests), although the food is in general permissible.

SASI KUMAR

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ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS

HOMOGENEOUS SOCIETY
The population is characterized by a high degree of cultural homogeneity. This homogeneity is reflected in a common Arabic language and in adherence to Sunni Wahhabi Islam, which has been fostered within the political culture promoted by the Saudi monarchy. Above all, the cultural homogeneity of the kingdom rests in the diffusion of values and attitudes exemplified in the family and in Arabian tribal society, in particular the values and attitudes regarding relations within the family and relations of the family with the rest of society. The family is the most important social institution in Saudi Arabia. For Saudis generally, the family is the primary basis of identity and status for the individual and the immediate focus of individual loyalty, just as it is among those who recognized a tribal affiliation. Families formed alignments with other families sharing common interests and life-styles, and individuals tended to socialize within the circle of these family alliances. Usually, a family business is open to participation by sons, uncles, and male cousins, and functioned as the social welfare safety net for all members of the extended family. The structure of the family in Saudi Arabia is generally compatible with the structure of tribal lineage. Families are patrilineal, the boundaries of family membership being drawn around lines of descent through males. Relations with maternal relatives are important, but family identity is tied to the father, and children were considered to belong to him and not to the mother. At its narrowest, a family might therefore be defined as comprising a man, his children, and his children's children through patrilineal descent. Islamic laws of personal status remained in force in Saudi Arabia without modification, and the patrilineal character of the family is compatible with and supported by these Islamic family laws. Marriage is not a sacrament but a civil contract, which is to be signed by witnesses and which specified an amount of money (mehr) to be paid by the husband to the wife. It might further include an agreement for an additional amount to be paid in the event of divorce. The amount of the mehr averaged between 25,000 and 40,000 Saudi riyals in the early 1990s, although some couples rejected the mehr altogether, stipulating only a token amount to satisfy the legal requirement necessary to validate the marriage contract. The contract might also add other stipulations, such as assuring the wife the right of divorce if the husband should take a second wife. Divorce could usually only be instigated by the husband, and because by law children belonged to the father, who could take custody of them after a certain age (the age varied with the Islamic legal school, but was usually seven for boys and puberty for girls), legally a wife and mother could be detached from her children at the wish of her husband. When women married, they might become incorporated into the household of the husband but not into his family. A woman did not take her husband's name but kept the name of her father, because legally women were considered to belong to the family of their birth throughout their lives. Many in Saudi Arabia interpreted the retention of a woman's maiden name, as well as her retention of control over personal property as allowed under Islamic law, as an indication of women's essential independence from a husband's control under the Islamic system. Legally, a woman's closest male relative, such as a father or brother, was obligated to support her if she were divorced or widowed. Divorce was common. According to Islamic law, men are permitted to marry as many as four wives. Among the adult generation of educated, Western- oriented elites, polygyny was not practiced. Polygyny was common, however, among some groups, such as the religiously conservative and the older generation of the royal family. In the cities, polygynous households were seen among recent migrants from rural areas.

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For a family of means, a polygynous housing arrangement usually entailed a separate dwelling unit for each wife and her children. These units might be completely separate houses or houses within a walled family compound, in which case the compound might include a separate house that the men of the family shared and used for male gatherings, such as meals with guests or business meetings. Because the prerogatives of divorce, polygyny, and child custody lay with the husband, women in Saudi Arabia appeared to be at a considerable disadvantage in marriage. However, these disadvantages were partially offset by a number of factors. The first was that children were attached to mothers, and when children were grown, especially sons, their ties to the mother secured her a place of permanence in the husband's family. Second, marriages were most often contracted by agreement between families, uniting cousins, or individuals from families seeking to expand their circle of alliances and enhance their prestige, so that a successful marriage was in the interest of, and the desire of, both husband and wife. In addition, Islamic inheritance laws guaranteed a share of inheritance to daughters and wives, so that many women in Saudi Arabia personally held considerable wealth. Because women by law were entitled to full use of their own money and property, they had economic independence to cushion the impact of divorce, should it occur. Most important, custody of children was in practice a matter for family discussion, not an absolute regulated by religion. Furthermore, judges of the sharia courts, according to informal observations, responded with sympathy and reason when women attempted to initiate divorce proceedings or request the support of the court in familyrelated disputes. Families in Saudi Arabia, like families throughout the Middle East, tended to be patriarchal, the father in the family appearing as an authoritarian figure at the top of a hierarchy based on age and sex. Undergirding the patriarchal family were cultural and religious values that permeated the society as a whole, and that found their clearest expression in tribal values and practices. Families shared a sense of corporate identity, and the esteem of the family was measured by the individual's capacity to live up to socially prescribed ideals of honor. The values and practices inherent in these ideals as well as adherence to Islam, were at the heart of the cultural homogeneity among the diverse peoples--tribal and nontribal--of the kingdom. The society as a whole valued behavior displaying generosity, selflessness, and hospitality; deference to those above in the hierarchy of the family; freedom from dependence on others and mastery over one's emotions; and a willingness to support other family members and assume responsibility for their errors as well. An example of the sense of corporate responsibility binding Arabian families may be seen in an incident that occurred in the 1970s in a Hijazi village. Although this incident occurred among beduin who were recently settled, the group solidarity illustrated was applicable to the Arabian family in general as well as to those united by tribal affiliation. An automobile accident took the life of a young boy, and the driver of the car was obligated to pay compensation to the boy's father. The family of the driver, although indigent, was able to borrow the money from a local merchant and present it to the boy's father in a ceremony "to forgive." Afterward, delegated members of the tribe assumed the responsibility of collecting money toward repayment of the compensation from all the people in the tribe, who happened to include close relatives of the boy who was killed. In this way, all parties to the tragedy were satisfied that the best interests of the extended family/tribal group had been served in serving the interests of an individual member. The veiling and separation of women were considered mechanisms to ensure sexual modesty and avoid fitna. In practice, the effect of veiling and separation also ensured the continuing dependence of women on men. Some families adopted more liberal standards than others in defining the extent of veiling and separation, but the underlying value of sexual modesty was almost universal. Because the separation of women from unrelated men was accepted as a moral imperative, most activities of a woman outside her home required the mediation of a servant or a man; for example, if a woman should not be seen, how could she apply for a government housing loan in an office staffed by men? In fact, how could she get to the government office without a servant or a man to take her, because women were not allowed to drive.

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LANGUAGES
Arabic is a name applied to the descendants of the Classical Arabic language of the 6th century AD, used most prominently in the Quran, the Islamic Holy Book. This includes both the literary language (Modern Standard Arabic or Literary Arabic, used in most written documents as well as in formal spoken occasions, such as lectures and radio broadcasts) and the spoken Arabic varieties, spoken in a wide arc of territory stretching across the Middle East and North Africa. Arabic is a Central Semitic language, closely related to Hebrew and the Neo-Aramaic languages, and also related to the South Semitic languages (e.g. Amharic in Ethiopia, Tigrinya in Ethiopia and Eritrea, and Mehri in Yemen and Oman) and the extinct East Semitic languages (e.g. Akkadian, first attested nearly 5,000 years ago). The written language is distinct from and more conservative than all of the spoken varieties, and the two exist in a state known as diglossia, used side-by-side for different societal functions. Many of the spoken varieties are mutually unintelligible, and the varieties as a whole constitute a sociolinguistic language. This means that on purely linguistic grounds they would likely be considered to constitute more than one language, but are commonly grouped together as a single language for political and/or ethnic reasons. If considered multiple languages, it is unclear how many languages there would be, as the spoken varieties form a dialect chain with no clear boundaries. If Arabic is considered a single language, it counts more than 200 million first language speakers (according to some estimates, as high as 280 million), more than that of any other Semitic language. If considered separate languages, the most-spoken variety would likely be Egyptian Arabic, with more than 50,000,000 native speakers still greater than any other Semitic language. The modern written language (Modern Standard Arabic) is derived from the language of the Quran (known as Classical Arabic or Quranic Arabic). It is widely taught in schools, universities, and used to varying degrees in workplaces, government and the media. The two formal varieties are grouped together as Literary Arabic, which is the official language of 26 states and the liturgical language of Islam. Modern Standard Arabic largely follows the grammatical standards of Quranic Arabic and uses much of the same vocabulary. However, it has discarded some grammatical constructions and vocabulary that no longer have any counterpoint in the spoken varieties, and adopted certain new constructions and vocabulary from the spoken varieties. Much of the new vocabulary is used to denote concepts that have arisen in the post-Quranic era, especially in modern times. Arabic is the only surviving member of the Old North Arabian dialect group, attested in Pre-Islamic Arabic inscriptions dating back to the 4th century. Arabic is written with the Arabic alphabet, which is an abjad script, and is written from right-to-left. Arabic has lent many words to other languages of the Islamic world, like Persian, Turkish, Urdu, Malay, Hausa and Hindi. During the Middle Ages, Literary Arabic was a major vehicle of culture in Europe, especially in science, mathematics and philosophy. As a result, many European languages have also borrowed many words from it. Arabic influence is seen in Romance languages, particularly Spanish, Portuguese, and Sicilian, owing to both the proximity of European and Arab civilizations and 700 years of Muslim/Moorish rule in some parts of the Iberian peninsula. Arabic has also borrowed words from many languages, including Hebrew, Greek, Persian and Syriac in early centuries, Turkish in medieval times and contemporary European languages in modern times. However, the current tendency is to coin new words using the existing lexical resources of the language, or to repurpose old words, rather than directly borrowing foreign words.

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Influence of Arabic on other languages

The influence of Arabic has been most important in Islamic countries. Arabic is an important source of vocabulary for languages such as Baluchi, Bengali, Berber, Catalan, English, French, German, Gujarati, Hindustani, Italian, Indonesian, Kurdish, Malay, Malayalam, Maltese, Pashto, Persian, Portuguese, Punjabi, Rohingya, Saraiki, Sindhi, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog, Turkish and Urdu as well as other languages in countries where these languages are spoken. For example, the Arabic word for book has been borrowed in all the languages listed, with the exception of French, Spanish, Italian, Catalan and Portuguese which use the Latin-derived words "livre", "libro", "llibre" and "livro", respectively, German and English which use the Germanic "Buch" and "Book", Tagalog which uses "aklat", Hebrew which uses "sefer", Gujarati which uses "chopdi", Marathi which uses "pustak", Malayalam which uses "pustakam" and Bengali which uses "boi". In addition, English has many Arabic loan words, some directly but most through the medium of other Mediterranean languages. Examples of such words include admiral, adobe, alchemy, alcohol, algebra, algorithm, alkaline, almanac, amber, arsenal, assassin, banana, candy, carat, cipher, coffee, cotton, hazard, jar, jasmine, lemon, loofah, magazine, mattress, sherbet, sofa, sugar, sumac, tariff and many other words. Other languages such as Maltese and Kinubi derive from Arabic, rather than merely borrowing vocabulary or grammar rules.

Examples
I love reading When I went to a lot the library I only found this old book I wanted to read a book about the history of women in France. kuntu urdu an aqraa kitban an tri lmarati f-farns kuntu urd an aqra kitb an tr al-mara ffarns

Variety

lam ajid ill Classical Arabic an uibbu lindam ahabtu h l-kitba l(liturgical or poetic qirata il l-maktabati karan qadma only) lam ajid ill Modern Standard an uibb al- indam ahabtu h l-kitb alqira karan il l-maktabah Arabic qadm

PRIMARY RESOURCES
Energy in Saudi Arabia describes energy and electricity production, consumption and export in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest energy producers, pumping approximately 10.782 million barrels per day (1.7142106 m3/d) of petroleum. While most of this is exported, domestic use is rapidly increasing, primarily for electricity production. Saudi Arabia's economy is petroleum-based; roughly 75% of government revenues and 90% of export earnings come from the oil industry. The oil industry produces about 45% of Saudi Arabia's gross domestic product, against 40% from the private sector. Saudi Arabia has per capita GDP of $20,700. The economy is still very dependent on oil in spite of a diversification effort, in particular in the petrochemical sector, with Sabic.

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Business Etiquette and Protocol

Saudi Arabia is a strictly Islamic country, and you should be observant of Muslim practices and laws when conducting business there. Be prepared to make frequent visits, as business is based on personal relationships in Arabic culture, and face-to-face meetings are preferred. Friendship and business are interlinked, and relationships are based on mutual benefit and reciprocity of favours. Appointments should be made in advance, with scheduled times regarded as approximate rather than fixed, due to the relaxed approach to time in Saudi Arabia. There is a five-day working week starting on Saturday. Normal working hours are 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. When scheduling appointments, it is important to take into account the five daily prayer times, as well as the Islamic religious holidays. Both men and women should dress very modestly for meetings, ensuring that most of the body is covered. Westerners should not wear native clothing as this may be seen as offensive. First names are only used between close friends in Saudi Arabian business. Arabic titles such as Haji or Sheikh, or professional titles (e.g. doctor, engineer, professor) should be used if known. Saudi Arabians usually shake hands as a greeting with foreign visitors, and may kiss close friends on both cheeks. You should shake hands with everyone present, starting with the most senior, and proceeding anti-clockwise around the room. Good eye contact is crucial as this will indicate sincerity. Saudi Arabians have a different sense of personal space to westerners and are likely to stand close when talking to you.

Relationships & Communication

. You will need a Saudi sponsor (wakeel) to enter the country. The sponsor acts as an intermediary and arranges appointments with appropriate individuals. . Saudis do not require as much personal space as most western cultures. As such, they will stand close to you while conversing and you may feel as if your personal space has been violated. . Saudis prefer to work with people they know and trust and will spend a great deal of time on the getting-to-know-you part of relationship building. . You must be patient. . Since Saudis will most likely judge you on appearances, dress and present yourself well.

Business Meeting Etiquette

. Appointments are necessary and should be made several weeks to one month in advance if at all possible. . When meeting with government officials, a firm date will not be settled upon until you are physically in the country. . Try to schedule meetings in the morning. . You should arrive at meetings on time, although it is an accepted custom to keep foreigners waiting. . It is not uncommon to have a meeting cancelled once you arrive. . Meetings are generally not private until after a relationship of trust has been developed. This means you may expect frequent interruptions. Others may wander into the room and start a different discussion. You may join in, but do not try to bring the topic back to the original discussion until the new person leaves.

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Business Negotiating
. Decisions are made slowly. Do not try to rush the process. . The society is extremely bureaucratic. Most decisions require several layers of approval. It takes several visits to accomplish simple tasks. . Saudis are tough negotiators. . Business is hierarchical. Decisions are made by the highest-ranking person. . Repeat your main points since it will be interpreted as meaning you are telling the truth. . Do not use high-pressure tactics. . Decisions are easily overturned. . When discussing price, Saudis will often make an initial offer that is extremely low when they are buying. Conversely, when they are selling, their initial offer will be extremely high. . You may need to compromise on a point if someone's dignity is at stake. . There is a tendency to avoid giving bad news and to give effusive acceptances, which may only mean 'perhaps'.

Dress Etiquette
. Most Saudis wear long white thobes. You would be expected to wear a suit. . Dress well if you want to make a good impression. . Business women should make certain that their collarbones and knees are covered and that their clothes are not form-fitting.

Business Cards
. Business cards are given to everyone you meet, although it may be an idea to be selective if you have few in your possession. . Have one side of your card translated into Arabic. Be sure to check the translation carefully as there is often confusion with the order of western names.

GIFT GIVING

Gifts are not usually given at initial business meetings. It is best to avoid giving gifts until a very strong bond has been established. If invited to a Saudi home or at 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 this gesture is not accepted. To be on the safe side avoid bringing flowers and/or perfume as a gift to a Saudi host. Alcohol is not to be given as well. Gifts are not usually opened in the presence of the giver.

MISCELLANEOUS

The only way do conduct business in is typically to be sponsored by a local company (most often owned by a Saudi). The Saudi world is an enigma. A great deal of relationship building must be spent in advance of getting down to business. Personal trust and respect will carry the day over productivity and profitability. S.HANNAH GRACELYN(11PGM13)

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NATURE OF ETHICS, VALUES AND LAW

The culture of gift giving is deeply entrenched in Saudi Arabia. As such, it has become part of international business etiquette. When considering whether or not a gift would be appropriate, think of gift giving as a form of unspoken communication. While generosity is an expected social ethic, the manner in which generosity is expressed carries layers of meanings, some of which can backfire very badly. For example, simply by choosing to give the gift at all, you are communicating to your intended recipient that he is not your superior. Keep in mind that many of the rituals of gift giving are based in respect, saving face, and avoidance of conflict. Knowing this will save you from many pitfalls. A gift is given either between equals, or from the superior to his subordinate. In contrast to North American custom, a gift is never given to the boss, as this would be highly insulting. Similarly, never give a gift to a business associate clearly older than yourself. Be careful of expressing admiration for another's possession, since this will create an obligation for him to make a gift of it. If you are in an appropriate position to give a gift, make it the best of its type. As a mark of respect, the receiver of the gift is likely to open the gift and examine it in detail in front of you. Make certain the gift can stand up to this kind of examination.

GIFTS TO AVOID
* Alcohol. Saudi Arabia is a strictly Muslim country, and alcohol is forbidden under Islam. * Statuettes. Wahhabi Islam forbids the depiction of the human form, and other identifiable objects are also questionable. * Gold jewelry and silk clothing. They are deemed effeminate. Stamped silver is acceptable, to distinguish it from white gold.

GIFTS TO BE CAREFUL WITH

Meat items. Only halal meat, which refers to the method of slaughter and preparation, is acceptable under Islam. If your gift involves meat, make certain it is clearly marked as halal. * Perfume. The preferred traditional scent for men is oud, a distillation of aloes wood. Perfume should never be given to women.

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How to give the gift is as important as what is given. Present the gift using both hands, being especially careful not to do so with the left hand alone. Address the recipient of the gift with his name and title. Don't rush the giving, and let the recipient take his time with receiving and examining the gift. If you are offered a gift, it is considered offensive not to accept it. Since this may place you into conflict with your business code of ethics, it is useful to find ways around the dilemma before you are faced with it. For example, you might come prepared for a possible exchange of gifts. It is still very uncommon for a foreigner to be working with a Saudi Arabian woman. Should you find yourself in this situation, always wait for her to take the initiative in all greetings involving physical contact, such as shaking hands. She may choose not to do so. However, if you are a woman working in Saudi Arabia, never initiate the handshake on your own. In general, gifts between men and women are best avoided. If in any doubt, omit the gift. In Saudi Arabia, gift giving is appreciated, but not necessary. It is better not to give a gift than to accidentally offend the people with whom you are doing business. The business set up in Saudi Arabia is extremely conservative and to ensure successful cross cultural management you will need to maintain a proper degree of formality and treat everyone with respect. Older people and those in senior positions are always deferred to and treated with the utmost respect. Patience may be a necessary cross cultural attribute. Things generally take longer than expected since meetings are frequently interrupted and Saudis take time to get to know you. In general, punctuality is expected of the westerner but not of the Saudi. Never do anything that would make a Saudi appear less in the eyes of others. You will need a Saudi sponsor to enter the country. The sponsor acts as an intermediary and arranges appointments with appropriate individuals. Since Saudis will most likely judge you on appearances, stay in a high standard international hotel. Likewise, wearing good-quality, conservative clothes will impress them.

THE ROLE OF A MANAGER

Cross cultural management will be more effective with an understanding of the individual roles and existing hierarchy. Employees do not question the decisions that have been reached. Managers or those in a position to do so will make decisions, while in general their subordinates will wait to be told what to do.

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APPROACH TO CHANGE
Saudi Arabias intercultural competence and readiness for risk is low. Saudi Arabia is a low risk and low change-tolerant culture. New projects will be carefully analyzed to assure that whatever risk they represent is thoroughly understood and addressed. In order for change to take hold, the idea needs to be perceived as good for the group and be accepted by the group. Intercultural sensitivity is important with Saudi Arabias attitude toward risk dramatically impacted by the negative ramifications of failure on both the individual and the group.

APPROACH TO TIME AND PRIORITIES

Cross cultural understanding is important when reviewing the approach to timelines. Saudis will not want to upset others in order to force adherence to a deadline. Things generally take longer than expected since meetings are frequently interrupted and several meetings may be required to do what could be handled by a phone call at home. When working with people from Saudi Arabia, its advisable to reinforce the importance of the agreed-upon deadline. Globalization and intercultural expansion means some local managers may understand and appreciate the important of adherence to schedules and deadlines.

DECISION MAKING
Managers reach decisions after many discussions with major stakeholders. Once a decision is reached, it is handed down to subordinates to implement. Employees do not question the decisions that have been reached. Managers or those in a position to do so will make decisions, while in general their subordinates will wait to be told what to do.

BOSS OR TEAM PLAYER

If you are working in Saudi Arabia, it is important to remember that honour and reputation play an important role and so some cross cultural sensitivity will be required. The risk becomes amplified in a team or collaborative setting. If you would like to encourage participation it is important first to clearly establish a non-threatening work environment and communicate fully that team-member participation is desired.

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COMMUNICATION AND NEGOTIATION STYLES

Business is personal. It will be impossible to finalize agreements without face-to-face contact. Decisions are made slowly. Do not try to rush the process. Most decisions require several layers of approval. It may take several visits to accomplish simple tasks. Saudis are tough negotiators. They believe that everything is negotiable. Business is hierarchical. Decisions are made by the highestranking person. Repeating your main points will be interpreted as meaning you are telling the truth. High-pressure tactics are counter-productive. Decisions are easily overturned. When discussing price, Saudis will often make an initial offer that is extremely low when they are buying. Conversely, when they are selling, their initial offer will be extremely high. You may need to compromise on a point if someone's honor is at stake. There is a tendency to avoid giving bad news and to give effusive acceptances, which may only mean "perhaps". Expect to be asked to make concessions. Do so with great reluctance and insist upon a similar concession from the other side.

S.VENKATRAMAN

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SOURCES: www.google.com www.en.wikipedia.org www.saudiembassy.net/ www.guardian.co.uk/world/saudiarabia

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