Feb 01, 2024

As the great Arab poet, Nizar Qabbani, once said, “Language is the garment of thought, and the more beautiful the garment, the more beautiful the thought appears.” And what better garment to adorn your business dealings than the vibrant robes of Emirati proverbs?

Marhaba, business leaders in the UAE! As the crossroads of global trade, the UAE thrives on cultural understanding and effective communication. While English may be the lingua franca, mastering a few key Arabic idioms can take your business interactions to the next level. 

Research by PWC shows that 75% of UAE business leaders prefer to conduct negotiations in Arabic or a mix of Arabic and English. Mastering these linguistic gems not only showcases your respect for the local tongue but also elevates you to a league of savvy dealmakers who understand the rhythm of Emirati commerce.

Imagine this, the Dubai skyline shimmers like scattered jewels beneath a relentless sun. You, a fresh-faced entrepreneur, stand in the bustling heart of a souk, the air thick with the scent of exotic spices and the rhythmic haggling of seasoned traders. Your palms, slick with a nervous sheen, clutch a neatly typed proposal, its fate hinging on the next few moments. You approach a wizened man, his eyes as sharp as scimitars beneath a kohl-lined hood. A single word, “Shukran,” escapes your lips, the polite “thank you” a mere wisp against the tapestry of this ancient tongue.

But “Shukran” is just the first pebble on the path to building trust, a mere stepping stone in the intricate dance of Arabic business etiquette. In this vibrant tapestry, words are not mere tools, but intricate brushstrokes painting a vivid picture of respect, understanding, and ultimately, success.

Forget the sterile boardrooms of the West, where PowerPoint presentations and quarterly reports reign supreme. Here, in the heart of the Arab world, deals are struck over steaming cups of cardamom-infused coffee, sealed with a firm handshake and a knowing glint in the eye. It’s a language where a well-placed proverb carries the weight of a contract, and a dash of humor can smooth over the sharpest barbs of negotiation.

So, put away your English dictionaries and forget the robotic pleasantries of corporate jargon. Let’s delve into the hidden language of the souk, the secret dialect of success spoken in the bustling marketplaces of the UAE. Move beyond the “Shukran”s and uncover seven hidden gems, seven Arabic business idioms that will transform you from a bewildered tourist to a respected player in the game.

This is not just about memorizing phrases; it’s about understanding the soul of a culture, and the rhythm of its heartbeat. It’s about speaking not just with words, but with respect, and empathy, with a twinkle of shared understanding that transcends mere transactions. So, are you ready to unlock the secrets of the souk? Then step into the whirlwind of Arabic business, where a single phrase can be your golden key, and let the journey begin.

Why Dive into Arabic Business Idioms?

In the realm of international business, a mere “thank you” may not suffice. Delving into Arabic business idioms not only showcases your commitment to effective communication but also underscores your respect for the cultural nuances that influence decision-making and relationship-building in Arabic-speaking contexts.

Forget the generic “Shukran” (thank you); let’s dive into 7 powerful Arabic expressions that will leave your clients feeling valued, respected, and impressed:

1. “Al-hamdu li-llah”: More Than Just “Thank God”

While “Shukran” expresses basic gratitude, “Al-hamdu li-llah” (praise be to God) signifies deeper appreciation and acknowledges divine blessings in your success. Use it after clinching a deal or receiving positive feedback to express genuine thankfulness and humility. Remember, in Arab culture, acknowledging Allah’s role shows respect and fosters trust.

2. “Al Sa’aa Min Thahab”: Time is Gold

In the Arabic business world, punctuality is more than a courtesy; it’s a reflection of your commitment and respect for your counterparts. Embracing this idiom is essential for fostering positive impressions in professional settings.

3. “Yedeeni fi ‘aynik”: Guide Me In Your Eyes

This metaphorical expression translates to “put your trust in me completely.” Use it sparingly, but strategically, to assure your clients of your unwavering commitment and dedication to their success. It signifies absolute loyalty and willingness to go above and beyond, leaving a lasting impression of your sincerity and reliability.

4. “Ma’alayish”: No Worries, Mate!

Mistakes happen. When things go awry, saying “Ma’alayish” (don’t worry) acknowledges the issue without dwelling on negativity. It conveys a sense of composure and resilience, reassuring your clients that you’re focused on finding solutions, not assigning blame. Remember, Arabs value emotional intelligence and appreciate a problem-solving mindset.

5. “Jazak Allahu khairan”: May God Reward You Well

Expressing sincere gratitude goes a long way in Arab business culture. “Jazak Allahu khairan” (may God reward you well) is a powerful way to thank someone for their efforts, time, or generosity. It goes beyond a simple “thank you” and invokes divine blessings upon the recipient, leaving them feeling truly valued and appreciated.

6. “kulluna fi hadha ma’an”: We’re All in This Together

Building strong relationships is key to success in the UAE. “kulluna fi hadha ma’an” (we’re all in this together) emphasizes collaboration and shared responsibility. Use it to acknowledge your interdependence with your clients and express your commitment to working as a team towards a common goal. This fosters a sense of unity and strengthens your business partnerships.

7. “lanqam bi dhalik”: Let’s Get This Done!

Arabs appreciate directness and action-oriented communication. “lanqam bi dhalik” (let’s get started) cuts through formalities and shows your enthusiasm to move forward. Use it at the end of meetings or discussions to signal your readiness to take action and implement agreed-upon plans. This demonstrates decisiveness and inspires confidence in your leadership.

Remember:

• Pronunciation matters. Take time to learn the correct pronunciation of these idioms to avoid misinterpretations.
• Context is key. Choose the right idiom for the specific situation and relationship you have with your client.
• Sincerity shines through. Use these expressions authentically to convey genuine respect and appreciation.

“In a global marketplace, speaking the language is essential, but understanding idioms is the key to speaking the culture.” – Dr. Emily Spencer

Mastering these Arabic business idioms is an investment in your success in the UAE. By demonstrating cultural awareness and effective communication, you’ll build stronger relationships, impress your clients, and navigate the business landscape with confidence. So, ditch the generic phrases and embrace the power of Arabic idioms. Your clients will be saying “Shukran!” (thank you) in no time.

Beyond “Wowing” Your Clients

Learning Arabic idioms goes beyond just making a good impression. It’s a window into the Emirati culture, its values, and its way of thinking. By incorporating these expressions into your communication, you’re not just dropping linguistic gems; you’re building bridges of understanding, forging stronger relationships, and ultimately, paving the way for success in the UAE’s dynamic business landscape.

Ready to Transform from “Shukran” to “Ya Salam!” in the UAE?

At Training Booth, we provide customized Arabic speaking training crafted specifically for workplace contexts. Through expert-led coaching and immersive learning experiences, employees master Arabic language skills they can apply immediately on the job.

Our targeted business Arabic programs focus on:

• Key industry terms and vocabulary
• Everyday dialogues and business expressions
• Nuanced cultural awareness
• Conversational fluency development

Whether your team needs a boot camp workshop or a long-term training program, we deliver. Contact Training Booth to learn more about our engaging Arabic language and cross-cultural training. Together, we can ensure your employees feel empowered, not lost, during Arabic business interactions. Let’s start the conversation!