Privacy in Arab Culture

Arabian Business and Cultural Guide is a 200+ pages guide for visitors, exporters, and international traders to understand the culture, business culture, and how to do business with Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and other Arab countries. Author: Mohammad Al-Sabt.
 
 
Because of the importance of privacy in the Arabian society, houses are built with big solid walls that maintain privacy from street traffic and the neighbors.

One of the most important considerations in building a house is the guarantee that the residents of the house can't see their neighbors from any part of the house, thus insuring the privacy of the neighbors.

When I visit the house of an Arabian relative or friend, the standing position I will take next to the house door should insure that when the door is open I can't see the inside of the house.

Furthermore, I will not go inside until my host signals me to do so by extending his right hand with his palm up saying "Tafaddal", which means "come in".

When you encounter someone who you know very well and they are accompanied by others that you do not know; keep your conversation limited to subjects that are socially accepted and do not divulge any experiences, situations or subjects that happened with, by, or between you and the person you know even if jokingly until you know the level of comfort and sharing that your friend has with the ones accompanying him/her.

 
The Arabian Business & Cultural Guide contains:

  • Do's & Don'ts.
  • Avoiding insulting verbally & non-verbally.
  • Requests & advice correct format & timing.
  • Real Stories.
  • Valuable Interviews.
 
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