Doing Business in the Middle East

Every Gulf state now has a national plan to grow beyond oil, and each is opening its doors to foreign companies, capital and talent. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, the UAE's We the UAE 2031, Qatar National Vision 2030, Kuwait Vision 2035, Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and Oman Vision 2040 all aim to build tourism, technology, finance, logistics and industry. See the national visions.

For American companies the region offers a young, fast-growing market, a strategic location between Europe, Asia and Africa, world-class airports and ports, and governments that actively court foreign investment.

Business in the region is built on relationships. Expect coffee before business, take time to get to know your hosts, and accept hospitality warmly; a first meeting is often about trust rather than terms. Dress conservatively, use your right hand to give and receive, and follow your host's lead on greetings. See customs and etiquette and hospitality and the majlis.

The working week runs Monday to Friday in the UAE and Sunday to Thursday in most other Gulf states, and the region's great trade shows, from the World Governments Summit to Arabian Travel Market and the boat and air shows, are the best places to meet. See business travel and conferences.