If you’re considering working in Saudi Arabia or planning to expand your business into the Kingdom, understanding the local work culture is essential. Saudi Arabia is a country where tradition meets rapid modernization. With Vision 2030 in full swing, the professional landscape is evolving quickly, and so is the way people work.
This guide gives you a real-world look at Saudi Arabia’s work culture—what’s expected, what’s different, and how to succeed in the Kingdom’s unique business environment.
1. Workweek and Hours:
One of the first things expats notice is that the workweek in Saudi Arabia runs from Sunday to Thursday, with the weekend falling on Friday and Saturday. Friday is the holiest day in Islam, so most businesses close entirely.
- Typical office hours are 8 AM to 5 PM, often with a long lunch and prayer break in the early afternoon.
- During Ramadan (the Holy month in Islam), working hours are shorter—usually six hours a day—to accommodate fasting employees.
- Companies usually offer a longer lunch break on Fridays to accommodate prayer time.
It might feel unusual at first, but many expats find it easy to adapt to a Sunday-to-Thursday workweek after a few weeks, so don’t feel discouraged if you are struggling in the beginning.
2. Hierarchy and Decision-Making: Respect Matters
Workplaces in Saudi Arabia often follow a top-down hierarchy. Decisions tend to flow from the top levels of management, and it’s common to show deference to senior staff.
- Use formal titles like “Mr.” or “Dr.” until invited to speak more casually.
- Expect decisions to take time: patience and respect go a long way in building trust.
- While some younger companies adopt a more relaxed culture, traditional values still shape many office dynamics.
If you’re used to flat organizational structures or fast-paced startups, this can be a shift. However, it’s also a chance to sharpen your cross-cultural communication skills.
3. Business Etiquette in Saudi Arabia: Building Trust First
Doing business in Saudi Arabia is about more than transactions; relationships and trust are everything.
- A warm handshake (always with the right hand) is the standard greeting, but wait for your host to initiate.
- Hospitality is taken seriously. You’ll often be offered Arabic coffee, tea, or dates before a meeting even begins. It’s polite to always accept all treats as a gesture of gratitude and appreciation.
- Small talk is part of the process. Expect conversations to start with personal pleasantries before getting down to business. However, personal conversations must always remain polite and professional.
It’s also important to note that meetings may not always start precisely on time. Flexibility and patience are seen as signs of professionalism.
4. Dress Code and Office Culture: Conservative (but evolving)
Saudi office attire tends to be modest and professional. However, it can vary depending on the industry and company culture.
- Men often wear a suit or the traditional white thobe. Ties are expected for managerial positions and above.
- Women are expected to dress modestly; an abaya is commonly worn, especially in more traditional environments. However, this is evolving in sectors like tech, media, and international firms. Still, modesty is advised – skirts and dresses should always cover the knees fully.
Office environments themselves can range from highly traditional to modern and collaborative, especially in industries targeted by Vision 2030 reforms, like tourism, entertainment, and finance.
5. Working in Saudi Arabia as an Expat: Final Thoughts
Adapting to the Saudi Arabian work culture takes time, but it’s doable with the right mindset. Respect for local customs, open-mindedness, and cultural sensitivity will help you build strong relationships and succeed professionally.
Whether you’re relocating for a new job, launching a business, or managing a regional office, understanding business etiquette in Saudi Arabia can make a real difference in how you’re perceived and how quickly you find your footing.
Key Takeaways:
- Workweek: Sunday–Thursday, with Friday as the holy day.
- Etiquette: Respect hierarchy, be patient, and build relationships first.
- Attire: Modest and professional—varies by sector.
- Culture: Tradition blends with change, especially in modern industries.
