Background
I was appointed as the first dedicated Country Security Manager for a major multinational energy company in Saudi Arabia.
Situation
As Saudi Arabia was a new country for me to live and work in, it was essential to become attuned to its distinct cultural nuances and regional variations, many of which were unfamiliar and specific to the Kingdom. This adaptation was particularly important because Riyadh, as the capital and most cosmopolitan city, is significantly more advanced and accustomed to expatriates than other parts of the country. In contrast, the more remote and isolated provinces operate under markedly different cultural and social frameworks, differences that can even challenge some Riyadh-based Saudis when they travel or work outside the capital.
Actions taken to build relationships
There was also the usual deep-seated suspicion toward me as a newly arrived Western European male in the organisation. In such situations, expatriates are frequently viewed with distrust, as potential internal auditors or ‘spies’ acting on behalf of headquarters, or even as agents of foreign governments. I gradually built trust and rapport by investing time in getting to know as many staff members as possible on a personal level, while respectfully noting those who appeared reluctant to engage. This reluctance often stems from a combination of factors, including language barriers, as some individuals preferred to avoid interaction if their English was less proficient than that of their colleagues, as it could mean losing face in front of others.
Throughout, I deliberately avoided a rigid corporate tone, instead adopting an anthropological lens prioritising careful observation, cultural sensitivity and human-centred engagement. Simple, culturally attuned gestures proved highly effective in breaking the ice. Showing sincere interest in how colleagues were experiencing Ramadan served as a genuine and disarming way to build bridges. Another practical approach was aligning mealtimes with local customs. Many Saudis take breakfast around 11:00 a.m. and lunch as late as 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. However, in Middle Eastern workplace culture, people rarely eat alone. By recognising these patterns and joining at the appropriate times, I demonstrated flexibility and respect. Colleagues expressed surprise and appreciation when a Westerner adapted to the local patterns, as expatriates are often perceived as rigid or unwilling to adjust to Saudi norms.
Results and outcome
By the end of my first year, I was very much part of the team. Particularly rewarding was the growing confidence shown by some of the more reserved members of staff, especially some of the female clerical employees. Several approached me to practise their English, ask questions about life in the United Kingdom and our culture, and enquire about my family.
Reflective observations
Initial hesitancy from some female colleagues, especially in conversing with Western men, was understandable. Preconceptions about Western culture often painted it as overly permissive, with widespread promiscuity, routine alcohol consumption and minimal emphasis on religion or family values. Once trust built over time, however, curiosity emerged. Saudi colleagues expressed genuine astonishment at aspects of my background: leaving home at 15, living on my own in rented accommodation, then joining the military. The notion of stepparents felt entirely foreign, as did the fluidity of some Western family structures. In return, they shared how Saudi family units functioned, emphasising strong extended ties, mutual support and the centrality of kinship.
With Saudi male colleagues, conversations often revolved around football. As someone who does not like football, and has absolutely no interest in it, the Saudis found this hard to believe. I would steer the discussions towards culture, gaining insights into parts of their culture not normally explored by an expatriate.
Key learnings
- Less is often more. Avoid pushing engagement onto individuals, particularly those who are naturally reserved, shy or protective of their personal reputation and dignity.
- Small talk, though sometimes repetitive or seemingly superficial, is a vital cultural bridge.