Cross-Cultural Guide: Italian-UAE Social Interactions
B2Lexis
Marco, fresh from Milan, enthusiastically greets his UAE business contact with typical Italian warmth – a firm handshake and friendly pat on the back, while asking about his host’s wife by name (having done his research on LinkedIn). His host, Ahmed, visibly stiffens and takes a step back. The atmosphere becomes noticeably tense. Marco’s well-intentioned familiarity has crossed important cultural boundaries regarding personal space and family privacy in the UAE. Here’s what you need to know to succeed…
💬 First business meeting between Italian executive Marco and UAE businessman Ahmed
Marco: “Hi Ahmed! How’s Maria and the kids?”
Ahmed: “*steps back slightly* Good morning… I wonder if we might discuss the business proposal?”
Marco: “Oh, I apologize. Would you be kind enough to guide me on the appropriate way to greet you?”
Ahmed: “Certainly. ‘As-salaam-alaikum’ is our traditional greeting. Shall we start with some coffee?”
Marco: “As-salaam-alaikum. I would be honored to join you for coffee.”
Ahmed: “Wa-alaikum-salaam. Please, make yourself comfortable.”
Marco: “I appreciate your understanding. Might I ask about your company’s recent developments?”
Ahmed: “I’d be happy to discuss that. First, let us enjoy our coffee.”
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In Italy we typically:
– Greet with physical contact and enthusiasm: ‘Ciao! Come stai?’ with kisses or handshakes
– Dive straight into personal topics and family matters
– Express opinions directly and animated: ‘Secondo me…’ with gestures
In UAE they expect:
– More formal, measured greetings: ‘As-salaam-alaikum’ with slight bow
– Gradual relationship building through general conversation
– Indirect communication with careful attention to saving face
💬 Mentoring conversation between experienced UAE business consultant Sarah and Marco
Sarah: “Remember, in the UAE, business relationships build gradually. It’s quite different from what you might be used to.”
Marco: “But in Italy, we like to get to know people quickly. How should I adapt my approach?”
Sarah: “Here, patience and formality show respect. Have you noticed how meetings often start with general conversation?”
Marco: “Yes, I’ve observed that business isn’t discussed immediately. What other cultural differences should I be aware of?”
Sarah: “Well, personal space is important. Unlike in Italy, physical contact during greetings is generally avoided in professional settings.”
Marco: “I understand. Would it be appropriate to discuss deadlines in our first meeting?”
Sarah: “It’s better to focus on building trust first. Business details can follow in subsequent meetings.”
Marco: “So relationship-building takes precedence over immediate business discussion?”
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Phrases that work in UAE:
– Opening socializing: ‘How are you blessed today?’ (formal initial greeting)
– Making requests: ‘Would it be possible…?’ (indirect approach)
– Expressing disagreement: ‘I understand your point, perhaps we could…’ (diplomatic)
– Showing respect: ‘With your permission…’ (acknowledging hierarchy)
– Closing/following up: ‘Inshallah we will meet again’ (culturally appropriate)
Never say this:
– ❌ ‘Let’s get straight to the point’
→
✓ ‘Perhaps we could discuss…’
– ❌ ‘How’s your wife/family?’
→
✓ ‘I hope your family is blessed’
– ❌ ‘No, that won’t work’
→
✓ ‘That’s an interesting perspective…’
💬 Follow-up business meeting between Marco and Ahmed
Marco: “As-salaam-alaikum. I hope you are blessed with a good day.”
Ahmed: “Wa-alaikum-salaam. Please, join me for coffee. How have you found your stay in Dubai?”
Marco: “I’m honored by your hospitality. Dubai has been most welcoming.”
Ahmed: “I’m pleased to hear that. Shall we discuss how our companies might collaborate?”
Marco: “Indeed. I’ve prepared some points for your consideration, when you feel it’s appropriate to proceed.”
Ahmed: “Your understanding of our customs is appreciated. Please, share your thoughts.”
Marco: “Thank you. Would you be interested in hearing about our proposed timeline?”
Ahmed: “Yes, please proceed. Your respect for our ways has made this discussion very comfortable.”
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Quick reference list:
– Start with: Formal honorifics and traditional greetings
– Watch for: Non-verbal cues indicating discomfort
– Adjust by: Maintaining appropriate physical distance
– Success looks like: Relaxed, unhurried conversation in the majlis
– Recovery phrase if things go wrong: ‘Please forgive any unintended offense’
◆ majlis→traditional sitting room where guests are received
◆ familiarity→informal friendliness or closeness
◆ dive straight into→to begin something directly without preparation
◆ gradual relationship building→developing connections slowly over time
◆ saving face→preserving dignity and avoiding embarrassment
◆ formal honorifics→respectful titles used to address people
◆ inshallah→God willing (used when discussing future plans)
◆ mashallah→expression of appreciation or joy without envy
◆ As-salaam-alaikum→traditional Arabic greeting meaning ‘peace be upon you’
◆ Wa-alaikum-salaam→traditional response meaning ‘and upon you be peace’