Doing Business in the Uae

Global Business Cultural Analysis: United Arab Emirates

Anthony M. Gole

Business 604 – International Business

Liberty University

Abstract

The purpose of this research paper is to reveal the implications for an American company to do business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The United Arab Emirates is a Middle Eastern country on the Persian Gulf bordering both Oman and Saudi Arabia and shares a maritime border with Qatar. Islam is the prominent faith in the region, and therefore takes center stage in all aspects of the lives of the citizens of the UAE. The goal was to explore the major elements and dimensions of culture in the United Arab Emirates, how these are integrated by local businesses, and how they compare with the major elements and culture in the United States. Research delves a little further and adds an additional perspective by approaching the question of whether or not it is possible for a Christian businessperson to do business with a Muslim nation without compromising their beliefs or principles. It was determined that overall it is very lucrative for an American firm to do business in the UAE, and that for the Christian businessperson it would not only be a lucrative investment, but a blessing.

Global Business Cultural Analysis: United Arab Emirates

Introduction

The United Emirates is a Middle Eastern country situated on the Persian Gulf, sharing a border with both Oman and Saudi Arabia. Its size is comparable with the state of Louisiana. Within the UAE there is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharajah, and Umm Al Quwain, which were founded in 1971 and are separately governed by a hereditary Emir. The seven Emirs are also responsible for electing the president of the federation and Prime Minister. The two most populated Emirates are Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Abu Dhabi is the capital and is the largest city in the Emirates. Dubai is second largest, and is rapidly becoming the...