5 Myths About Doing Business in the Arab World (Debunked)

Prepared from an independent inspection and compliance perspective for the Joint Kenya-Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JKACCI).

Trade between Kenya and the Arab world continues to expand across sectors such as agriculture, logistics, construction, energy, education, and services. Despite this growth, many businesses remain hesitant to enter Arab markets due to long-standing myths that no longer reflect today’s realities.

As an inspection-focused organization working closely with exporters, importers, regulators, and chambers of commerce, we regularly identify where misunderstandings arise and how they can be resolved. Below are five common myths about doing business in the Arab world, along with clear explanations of why they are inaccurate.

Myth 1: “Business in the Arab world is casual and only based on personal relationships”

Reality: relationships matter, but structure matters more.

Trust and reputation are indeed important elements of Arab business culture. However, modern Arab markets operate through written contracts, compliance requirements, documented procedures, and formal government oversight. Inspections, certifications, and licensing are not optional; they are mandatory.

Personal relationships may help businesses enter the market, but long-term success depends on professional systems, verified documentation, and strict adherence to regulations.

Myth 2: “The rules are unclear or constantly changing”

Reality: regulations exist and are often very clear once properly understood.

Many Arab countries have made significant investments in digital customs systems, trade portals, and regulatory authorities. The main challenge for foreign companies is not the absence of rules, but a lack of familiarity with them.

From an inspection perspective, delays are commonly caused by:

• Incorrect product classification

• Missing compliance documentation

• Limited understanding of import standards

When businesses align with the correct regulatory frameworks, trade becomes stable, predictable, and efficient.

Myth 3: “Only large multinational companies can succeed”

Reality: small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are succeeding every day.

Arab markets are open to SMEs, particularly in food products, construction materials, professional services, education, and technology. Success is not determined by company size, but by readiness and preparation, including:

• Clear contractual arrangements

• Proper inspection and certification

• Transparent pricing and logistics

Many strong Kenya–Arab trade partnerships began with small exporters who focused on quality and compliance rather than scale.

Myth 4: “Arab markets are risky and unreliable”

Reality: risk comes from poor preparation, not from the market itself.

Every international market involves risk. In practice, most problems occur when businesses skip due diligence, fail to comply with inspection requirements, or rely on assumptions instead of verified information.

Risk is significantly reduced when companies:

• Use inspection and verification services

• Clearly define responsibilities within contracts

• Fully understand payment and delivery terms

Business relationships with Arab partners are often long-term, stable, and built on repeat cooperation.

Myth 5: “Cultural differences make business too difficult”

Reality: cultural understanding simplifies business rather than complicating it.

Arab business culture places strong value on respect, clarity, and long-term cooperation. Once companies understand basic business etiquette and decision-making processes, collaboration becomes straightforward.

From an inspection standpoint, cultural awareness improves communication during audits, site visits, negotiations, and compliance checks. It helps reduce misunderstandings and speeds up approval processes.

Final Thought: Facts Are Better Than Assumptions

The Arab world is not a single market, but a diverse group of economies that are increasingly connected with Africa, particularly Kenya. Many misconceptions persist because businesses rely on rumors rather than verified facts.

Structured inspection, verification, and compliance practices transform uncertainty into confidence. For businesses willing to prepare properly, the Arab world does not present barriers—it offers opportunities.

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