Taste Arabic

Souk (Market)

Experience the old market town of Fez in Morocco (or the ultra-modern shopping malls of Dubai). 'Souk' is the Arabic word, which stands for the open-air market or place with many stalls where any kind of goods are brought or exchanged. The sights, the smells, makes it a truly unique experience and there are many different things for sale, from spices and silk to electronics and gold. In a souq, the final price of an item is reached by bargaining with the shopkeeper. In some African countries the souq was a place where people could come and talk, or sit down to tell stories.

Arab Cuisine

Arabic cuisine is mainly a combination of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian food. It has been affected by the mingling of Arab and non-Arabs over the centuries. European cultures such as the Spanish, Italian, French and Greek also had impact on Arab cooking. Turkish cuisine had an impact on the entire Arab world as did Persian and Indian cuisine. The essential concept in Arabic cuisine is hospitality. Formal dinners and celebrations normally include large quantities of lamb (or veal), chicken, rice, stewed vegetables with tomato sauce and dishes seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Several other side dishes and salads are also included. Muslim Arabs do not consume pork meat or alcohol. The word "halal" means "allowed" and is a way of describing meat which has been ritually slaughtered, similarly to the Jewish "kosher" tradition.

You will find the following items in many dishes;
- Cinnamon, Curry powder, Fish (in coastal areas), Garlic, Lamb (or veal), Mild to hot sauces, Mint, Onion, Rice, Saffron, Sesame, Yogurt, Spices (similar to the Indian cuisine). Tea, Thyme (or oregano), Turmeric, Variety of fruits (primarily citrus), Variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, eggplants, lettuce, tomato, green pepper, green beans, zucchini and parsley.

Arab Business Etiquette

Within the Arab world, practicing proper Arab business etiquette is paramount. In business as well as in their everyday lives, Arabic countries value order, rules and tradition. If you are negotiating business deals with an Arab client, partner or company, it is important to understand and practice Arab business etiquette. This will show respect for Arabian and Islamic values and will help you gain respect – and business – from Arab clients.

Some facts:

• Islam is the primary religion practiced throughout the Arab world. Islamic beliefs heavily influence day-to-day Arab social customs, as well as proper Arabian business etiquette.
• Visitors are expected to abide by local standards of modesty however, do not adopt native clothing. Traditional clothes on foreigners may be offensive.
• A jacket and tie are usually required for men at business meetings. Men should wear long trousers and a shirt, preferably long-sleeved, buttoned up to the collar. Men should also avoid wearing visible jewelry, particularly around the neck.
• Often shoes are removed before entering a building. Follow the lead of your host.
•  The left hand is considered unclean and reserved for hygiene. Gesture and eat with the right hand. Do not point at another person.
• Meetings are commonly interrupted by phone calls and visits from friends and family.
• Communication is slow, do not feel obligated to speak during periods of silence. "Yes" usually means "possibly".
• A customary greeting is 'Salaam Alaykum'.  
• Islamic culture values structure and order. Therefore, you may want to make sure that you have a well-defined plan for your business meeting with an agenda.