The Essentials of Business Etiquette and Protocol

Program Overview

In the Gulf, where relationships and respect shape business outcomes, professional etiquette and protocol are essential skills. This course covers first impressions and professional image, greetings and introductions, meeting and business card etiquette, hosting and visiting delegations, order of precedence, seating arrangements, official correspondence, dining etiquette, gift-giving, and cultural and religious considerations such as working during Ramadan. Participants also learn digital etiquette and how to adapt to international guests while respecting local customs.

Learning Outcomes

• ✓Apply correct greeting, introduction and address conventions for senior officials and international guests.
• ✓Plan seating and order of precedence for meetings, ceremonies and official dinners.
• ✓Organise the hosting of a visiting delegation, from invitation to farewell.
• ✓Draft formal invitations and official correspondence using appropriate protocol wording.
• ✓Observe dining, gift-giving and hospitality etiquette suited to Gulf and international contexts.
• ✓Adapt professional behaviour for cross-cultural meetings and virtual communication.

Target Audience

• Protocol and public relations officers
• Executive assistants and office managers
• Government and corporate relations staff
• Managers who host visitors and delegations

Detailed Program Modules

Training Methodology

Applied Project & Assessment