Business culture in Bahrain

Understanding cultural etiquette is essential to forming successful business partnerships in Bahrain. By respecting local customs, being patient, and focusing on building relationships, you can open up business opportunities and establish long-term partnerships in this growing market.

Meetings and Greetings

Business meetings in Bahrain are generally formal and conservative, reflecting the country's traditional values and Islamic culture. Understanding and following proper business etiquette is essential to building strong relationships and conducting successful business deals.

Punctuality is highly valued in Bahraini business culture. Arriving late for a meeting is considered disrespectful and can leave a negative impression. It is important to plan your travel time carefully and arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to allow for any unexpected delays.

When meeting Bahraini businessmen for the first time, it is customary to greet them with a firm handshake and a warm smile. For women, a nod or verbal greeting may be more appropriate, unless a handshake is offered. Be aware of personal boundaries and cultural sensitivities.

Maintain eye contact and greet people politely, such as “Salaam Alaikum” (peace be upon you). It is also important to address people by their titles and surnames until they give you permission to call them by their first name. English is widely spoken, but a few Arabic phrases can make an impression.

Business cards are usually exchanged during the initial meeting. Visiting business people should have their business cards ready to hand out at the beginning of the meeting.

Pious Muslims pray five times a day. Visitors should be sensitive to hosts who interrupt their discussion to pray.

Building Personal Relationships in Business

Develop personal connections before discussing business in Bahrain, as relationships are key to success. Get to know your coworkers in person by discussing family, hobbies, or common interests to build trust and rapport. Show genuine interest in their culture and lives.

Engage in social events outside of formal settings, such as lunches or dinners, to strengthen bonds in a relaxed environment. Hospitality is a vital part of building relationships in Bahrain.

Consistent communication also strengthens these bonds. Send personalized messages on special occasions or write after meetings to express gratitude. Remembering details such as a coworker’s birthday or personal accomplishments can deepen relationships.

Dress Code

Business attire in Bahrain is generally formal and conservative, reflecting the country’s traditional values and Islamic culture. It is important to dress appropriately for business meetings, conferences, and other professional events.

For men, the standard business attire in Bahrain is a suit and tie. Dark suits are generally preferred. Shirts should be in subdued colors, and ties should be conservative.

Women should also dress modestly and conservatively for business meetings. Appropriate attire for women includes dresses or pantsuits in subdued colors. Skirts should be knee-length or longer, and tops should be modest. Avoid wearing revealing or tight clothing.

It is important to note that while formal attire is generally expected in a business setting, dress codes may vary depending on the specific industry or company. It is always a good idea to check the dress code in advance to ensure you are dressed appropriately.

Gifts

While not required, it is considered a goodwill gesture to bring a small gift to your business associates in Bahrain. Avoid giving gifts that involve alcohol or pork, as these are considered offensive in Islamic culture.

If you are invited to a Bahraini home, bring a houseplant, a box of imported chocolates, or a small gift from your home country.

Always say that the gift is for the host, not the hostess, whom you may never meet. Gifts are given with both hands and are not opened immediately upon receipt.

Table Etiquette

Bahrainis are known for their hospitality, and business associates are often invited to their homes for dinners or social events. Accept any offer of coffee or tea. Refusing hospitality may be seen as rejecting the person.

Show respect to elders by greeting them first. If other guests arrive after you, stand and wait your turn to be introduced to them.

If you are invited to dinner, you may have to mingle and chat a lot before the food is served.

Never touch the mat with your feet or point the soles of your feet towards others. Eat only with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean in Islam. Try a little of everything that is offered to you. Often there is more food than you can eat. You will be persuaded to eat more despite the fact that you say you are full.

It is considered polite to leave a little food on your plate when you have finished eating. This shows that the host has showered his guests with generosity and abundance. It is considered good manners to reciprocate any hospitality extended to you.

Effective Negotiation and Decision Making

Negotiating in Bahrain requires patience, respect, and relationship building. Unlike direct business cultures, there is an emphasis on trust and mutual benefit. Focus on creating an atmosphere of cooperation, starting with warm greetings and small talk to build relationships before discussing business.

Decisions often require consensus, especially in family businesses. Be prepared to discuss with various stakeholders and allow time for consultation. Patience is crucial, as rushing can appear disrespectful and harm future deals. Be prepared for multiple meetings and maintain a positive attitude.

Listen actively and demonstrate understanding by acknowledging your counterpart’s point of view. This approach promotes collaboration and leads to favorable outcomes.

Remain flexible and open. Be adaptive and willing to find mutually beneficial solutions, increasing the success of negotiations. Strive for a long-term partnership based on trust and respect.

Conversations often involve indirect communication, in which silence and politeness play a key role.

To deal with indirect communication, focus on nonverbal cues and context. Bahrainis can subtly hint at meanings. Use active listening and open-ended questions to clarify intentions without confrontation.

Respond politely and positively. Phrases such as “I understand” or “This makes sense”, demonstrate empathy and a collaborative spirit.

Senior leaders wield significant influence, so understanding this dynamic is critical. When engaging senior leaders, approach them with respect and courtesy, acknowledging their status. Build trust and show respect for their leadership; the relationship comes first, business second.

Working Hours

Working Hours: Sunday to Thursday is the normal working week in Bahrain. Government offices are generally open from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Most businesses are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, although smaller businesses close for lunch from noon to 4 p.m. Large companies operate seven days a week, but may have reduced hours on weekends.

Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. In Bahrain, it is illegal for anyone, including non-Muslims, to smoke, eat, or drink in public during daylight hours. Most restaurants and cafes are closed for dine-in during daylight hours, but they do offer delivery, and larger hotels typically keep one restaurant open for non-Muslim guests. Government offices and most businesses operate reduced hours during Ramadan, although many shopping malls and restaurants open at dusk and stay open well past midnight.

Public and Religious Holidays (for 2025)

• January 1 — New Year
• May 1 — Labor Day
• March 31 - April 2 - Eid al-Fitr
• June 6-9 - Eid al-Adha
• June 27 - Hijri Day (Muslim New Year)
• July 6-7 - Ashura
• September 5 - Prophet's Birthday
• December 16-17 - National Day

Local religious holidays are governed by the lunar calendar and are subject to change. The Bahraini government announces the exact dates a few days before the holiday itself.