Gender Roles and Collectivistic Culture in Saudi Arabia - Harrison Moore

In order to effectively communicate with Saudi Arabian natives one must first understand their dynamics of the gender role. In Saudi Arabia, the woman is required to fully clothe herself in robes and also what is referred to as an "abaya", which is a thin, black outer cloak. The female is to also wear what is called a "shayla" which covers their entire head other than their eyes. Although Western culture views this as somewhat "degrading" and "constrictive", Saudi women believe that their wear is a sign of modesty and virtue and they generally view themselves as "protected and honored." Instead of rebelling against their cultural roles, they embrace them!

Male dress includes what is known as a "thawb", which is their typical ankle-length shirt that's usually made from cotton or wool. A large square of cotton (a ghutra) is worn atop of their heads that is folded over a skullcap (a kufiyyah) and is held in place with a cord circlet (an igaal). The outer length cloak, called a bisht, completes their outfit. This was also used in the older days of Saudi culture as a blanket while traveling.

In the Saudi Arabian culture the male dominates every aspect of life. Women are subservient to their male counterparts, requiring to essentially request permission over a majority of private and public business. Although women in Saudi Arabia are able to invest their own money, own a business, and own their own land, a close male relative or authority figure (referred to as a mahram) must always be present. In order for the women to make any sort of decision regarding her business or sign any legal documents, the mahram must be present for approval.

Women are also very restricted in which careers they can choose (if they even want to) and typically work in environments that heavily involve interaction with other females, since it is looked down upon for unrelated Saudi men and women to have interaction without male authority presence. Restriction of females in the job market also has to do with their inaccessibility to drive. Since legally you cannot cover your face while driving and to uphold Islamic beliefs, women are not allowed to drive. Females having access to individual transportation also poses that the female may feel inclined to leave the house more often, taking away from her typical household regulations. Also this provides possible unnecessary interaction between unrelated males (flat tire, car accident).

Only 7% of the professional Saudi workforce is female. Some examples of typical female positions are all-girls' schools/universities, social work and development for females, and banks that cater to only female clients. Usually in local markets and bizarres there are sections that are also set aside for female sellers.

Their collectivistic culture emphasizes equality and siblinghood, which derives from an important Islamic principle "Every individual should be honest and responsible to the group." Saudis typically use euphemisms and playful short stories to downplay unpleasant facts or news. Because every Saudi believes in preserving their integrity and also expects the same respect from others, non-contribution (especially in the workplace) could cause serious offence and shame. Being naturally very tight-knit, personal and professional interaction are extremely involved with each other. Work is slower paced because Saudis believe they can achieve things greater and faster if everyone is in harmony. Small talk is created before meetings in order to create rapport. This allows the group to understand the feelings and well-being of other members.

Although success is favorable, punctuality is really emphasized in the Saudi Arabian culture. They are very future-oriented in business endeavors, so even when success has been achieved (and praise has been given to the group) there is always a need for more improvement and to do bigger and better things, possibly even developing what they already succeeded in even further. There are not really any philosophies or slogans you see typical Western businesses have. The main purpose of their's is to just continue to grow in what you have.

Respect is a vital part of Saudi Arabian culture, so conducting oneself with respect and also respect to others and their beliefs can lead to many open doors in the professional world. This can drastically reduce any conflicts in communication and aversion to business collaboration which favors the outcome of successful professional relationships!