Working Hours
Normal business working hours in Qatar are 8am - 12 noon and 4pm - 7pm Saturdays to Thursday. Many offices are closed on Friday. Arabic is the national language, but as foreigners make up nearly 85% of the population, English is widely spoken, especially in business.
The work culture, practices and processes in Qatar will almost certainly be very different from what you are used to. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the way how business operates here, and to make sure you are aware of the cultural differences and their impact on business.
Climate
The climate in Qatar is either hot and dry, or hot and humid. From October to May, the climate is mild and pleasant, but can very occasionally feel cold in the evenings.
Between June and August the heat can rise above 40 degrees Celsius, so people tend to leave the city of Doha for extended annual vacations to cooler climates.
Air conditioning is available in offices, restaurants and shopping malls.
Qatari Business Culture
Every country has its own way of doing business, and Qatar is no exception. Knowing the basic guidelines for behavior can make all the difference to business relationships.
Building Relationships
Qatari businessmen prefer to do business with people they are familiar with, and who they feel they can trust, so they will spend time getting to know you before they get down to business.
Handshakes
A handshake is the accepted greeting between men.
Verbal commitments
Your verbal promise or agreement is a commitment that is regarded as binding, in the same way as a written contract
The word no
It is unusual to hear people use the word ‘No’ in business. People tend to express a more polite or indirect method of refusal. Meetings can last a long time and are often disturbed by unexpected visitors or interruptions.
Confirm
Make sure to reconfirm any arrangements shortly before they are scheduled to take place, as business schedules often change at short notice.
Business cards
Print your details in Arabic on the reverse of your business cards, and when you receive a card from a new contact, treat it with respect.
Business dress
Choose smart formal, lightweight clothing bearing in mind that most offices are air-conditioned.
Contacts
The contacts you make are vital to the success of your business. Al Jazeera International Group W.L.L. has a network of well-established contacts in the business world and can set up important introductions and recommendations.
