Interacting with Women in Business

Saudi Arabia is a conservative society.

However it is changing. Even in the 5 years I have spent here I have seen women play a greater and more influential role in the business world. No it is not what we are used to in the West, but it IS changing.

Unsurprisingly the situation is different in different parts of the country. Jeddah in the Western Region and Dammam, Dhahran, and Al Khobar in the Eastern Region would be considered more progressive than Riyadh in the Central Region. The areas outside of these major cities are still quite conservative.

Some do's and do not's:

• Do not meet a woman for a business meeting in a private environment
• In Jeddah, Dammam, Al Khobar, and Dhahran it is ok to meet a woman for a meeting outside the office as long as it is in a public location
• In Riyadh it is preferable that you meet your woman business contact in an office environment
• Only shake hands if the woman offers to do so first
• It is wise not to invite a woman for a business dinner or lunch

The role of women in Saudi Arabia is changing. Understand that there are things that are acceptable and other things that are not when dealing with women in a business environment in Saudi. Accepting and following a few simple rules will make your efforts to do business in Saudi Arabia pleasant and hopefully rewarding.