Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. There are several styles of greetings in Kuwait and thus, in the case of a first meeting, it is advisable to wait for one's counterpart to initiate the greeting. Westernized men shake hands with other men, whereas a more traditional Arab greeting between men involves each grasping the other's right hand, placing the left hand on the other's right shoulder, and exchanging kisses on the cheek. Note that in this conservative culture, men may kiss men, women may kiss women, but men and women may not kiss in public. Note also that a traditional Arab male may not always introduce his wife. In the case of meetings involving both genders and across cultural lines, a Westernized businesswomen should wait for an Arab man to offer his hand rather than initiating the greeting herself.
2. Note that Kuwati men often walk hand in hand. Thus if a Kuwaiti holds your hand, take it as a sign of friendship.
3. Hospitality is a hallmark of Muslim tradition, so once welcomed into a Kuwaiti home, a host will typically be an attentive and considerate host since to be anything less than hospitable would be regarded as lacking in virtue. Consider it a compliment if you encounter a bloody sheep carcass at the entrance to a Kuwaiti home as it means that your host has slaughtered a sheep in your honor.
4. If you are invited to a Kuwaiti home, it is customary to take a gift to the host or hostess. Baked goods or chocolates are good choices, while flowers are acceptable for very Westernized locals. Note, however, that flowers are traditionally used at funerals and weddings. A beautiful ornament, possibly from one's own country, or fine crystal or china, would make better choices. A finely made compass, symbolizing the direction of Mecca to a devout Muslim, would constitute a thoughtful gesture on the part of the giver, and would most assuredly be treasured by the recipient. Note however, that if you effusively admire an item owned by a Kuwaiti, he or she will feel obligated to give it to you, and when offered a gift by a Kuwaiti, it is impolite to refuse.
5. Normally, one should be prepared to remove one's shoes before entering a building or a home. When one removes one's shoes, the soles of the shoes are placed together, preventing the sole from being pointed at anyone. Also, one should never show the bottom of one's feet as it is considered offensive.
6. In conversation, good topic choices include Kuwaiti history, current or modern achievements, sports and culture. Generally, discussions about politics or anything related to Israel or Iraq should be avoided. Men should be careful not to bring up the subject of women unless one's counterpart does so first. A simple inquiry as to the health of a wife or daughter can be considered inappropriate.
7. Social space is a culturally determined trait and visitors should note that Kuwaitis speak to each other at a much closer distance than North Americans. Their sense of closer social space is merely an indicator that this culture has a different understanding of spatial dynamics.
8. One should always use the right hand in preference to the left. The left hand is considered unclean in the Arab world and as such, one should never eat with the left hand. Likewise, one should avoid gesturing with the left hand while making sure that gifts are received with the right hand. Of course, it t is acceptable to use both hands when one is insufficient. One should also avoid pointing at another person, and one should never use the North American "thumbs up" gesture as is considered to be vulgar throughout the Arab world.
9. Kuwait is a conservative, Muslim culture and clothing should be appropriate to this environment. Business wear is typically more conventional; suits are the norm for both men and women, although some industries may allow more casual attire to be worn. Women generally should try to be more restrained in regard to makeup and jewelry. Both men and women should dress modestly. Tight, revealing clothing is simply not acceptable. Necklines should be high and sleeves should come to the elbows. Hemlines should be well below the knee, if not ankle length.
10. There are a number of prohibitions and customs involving food that one should adhere to in a Muslim country. For example, one should also note that the consumption of alcohol or pork is disallowed in strict Muslim circles. Meanwhile, all appropriate meats consumed by Muslims should adhere to "hallal" standards. In practice, when one is partaking of a meal, one should not eat everything on the plate. Leaving a little food is a sign that one has had enough to eat.
11. Visitors should be sure to acquaint themselves with the calendar and traditions of Islam, such as the fasting, daily prayer and practices. Praying five times daily, for example. During the period of Ramadan, fasting and prayer is mandatory for Muslims.
12. Similarly, one should always be aware of how Islamic law, which is delineated in the Shari'a, is used as the basis for the legal and juridical structure in Islamic countries. While the violation of traditions may simply be rationalized as ignorance in other countries, they take on far greater meaning in countries where the Islamic religion textures all aspect of society and culture.
13. Be prepared for the strict separation between the genders. Women are usually escorted by male relatives in public, and unrelated men and women should not mingle with one another. If a Kuwaiti man is accompanied by a veiled woman, it is not traditional to introduce her.
Business Customs
Kuwaiti and foreign business community members who have broad experience in the market, give the following suggestions:
1. The official language of Kuwait is Arabic, but English is widely used in business and on signs and notices, making it easy for the non-Arabic speaker to live and work there.
2. Modern Kuwait has adopted many of the business methods and styles of the West, but some differences remain. Most important is that business will only be conducted after a degree of trust and familiarity have been established. Considerable time may be spent exchanging courtesies, and several visits may be needed to secure business.
3. Many Kuwaiti businessmen have been educated or have traveled extensively in the West and are sophisticated in dealing with Americans. For the most part travelers can rely on the usual Western manners and standards of politeness to see them through, with a few additional rules that may be observed (see section called "Cultural Dos and Taboos" in this regard).
4. Private companies work six days a week (Saturday through Thursday). Business hours vary in different parts of the country. Since many companies may be open only until 1 pm on Thursdays, prior to the holy day, Friday, meetings should not be scheduled on either Thursdays or Fridays. Government offices are closed on Thursdays and Fridays, while banks and insurance companies are closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
5. Office hours are generally between 8 to 5 pm, although some companies may work from 8 to 12:30 pm and from 4:30 to 8:30 pm. Appointments and meetings with managers tend to take place after 9 pm, although managers may prefer to meet after 6 pm during the hot summer months. Note, however, that many people leave the country during this period.