•Gifts should only be given to the most intimate of friends.
•Gifts should be of the highest quality.
•Never buy gold or silk as a present for men.
•Silver is acceptable.
•Always give/receive gifts with the right hand.
•Saudis enjoy wearing scent – ‘itr’. The most popular is ‘oud’ which can cost as much as £1000 an ounce.
•It is not bad etiquette to open gifts when received.

The above are a few of many examples of cross cultural differences in gift giving etiquette. It is advisable to try and ascertain some facts about the gift giving etiquette of any country you plan to visit on business. By doing so, you maximise the potential of your cross cultural encounter.

About the Author

Neil Payne is Director of Cross Cultural Communications consultancy, Kwintessential.

http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/cultural-services/cross-cultural-communication.html