Business and Social Etiquette 101: A Look at Kuwait

Kuwait, one of the richest countries, is a busy city with lots of businesses. Although English is a widely spoken language, Kuwait's customs are very different than ours. English is the mandatory second language in school. Non-Kuwaitis may speak Farsi or Urdu. So, before you trek to this glorious country, be sure you know their etiquette, culture and customs to avoid any misunderstandings.

First, the people of Kuwait have long names. To get a better understanding of their names, the format of naming in Kuwait is the following: personal name + Al + father's personal name + Al + grandfather's personal name + Al + surname. The title "Sheikh" indicates the person is of the royal family or is a title for a respected old man.

The Islamic culture is big in Kuwait as it is a Muslim country. Thus, everyday you can find the exact times of prayer in the local newspaper--one during dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset and evening. During these prayer times, meetings are allowed to be interrupted. Kuwait's weekends are Thursdays and Fridays, with Friday as the Holy Day. Stores and businesses are closed on Fridays and some chose to close on Thursdays. During, Ramadan, the month-long fast, visitors should not eat or drink in public. Kuwait is 95% Muslim, and is known as a religious tolerant nation, but you should be mindful of their religion.

Women mostly socialize amongst themselves and not in the public. During dinners, sometimes, men and women are separated in different rooms. If you have to give a gift to a female for business, do not give it directly. Say that it's from a female relative, wishing them well. Both women and men dress conservatively in Kuwait. Business meetings are usually in the early evening while government official meetings are in the morning since government officials only have a 6-hour workday. Try not to schedule meetings in July or August, as many people leave the country to avoid the heat.

The people of Kuwait are taken care of. The government offers free education and monetary wedding gifts for young couples. Furthermore, they have good healthcare. The business-life is less hectic than the one in America. Most people in Kuwait take long lunch hours and chat in local coffee shops several times a week. They take things in more slowly and have a more relaxed lifestyle.

Kuwaitis are very hospitable people. If you are invited to a dinner at someone's home remember to observe the following. Shoes are removed in most cases, depending on the family; so look at your host for indication. At the dinner table, meals are served family-style with the guest first, than the oldest member of the family. Remember to eat with your right hand. When you are done eating, leave some food on your plate, otherwise, the host will serve you more. When the host stands, he indicates that the dinner is over. Dinner is over rather quickly as small talks are usually done before a dinner starts.