Arriving Early is Not the Same as Being Ready

The Story
In Riyadh, a foreign consultant arrived 15 minutes early for a first meeting. He assumed this would signal seriousness. The host's team noted it, but not favorably. Early arrival had compressed the preparation time on their side, requiring a quiet reshuffle. By the time the meeting began, something small had already shifted. The consultant did not know what he had interrupted.

Cultural Principle
In many Gulf professional settings, punctuality is measured with more nuance than the clock alone. Arriving too early can place an unspoken burden on the host, who has calibrated hospitality, room, and presence for the agreed time.

Takeaway
Know the exact time. Arrive within two minutes of it. Composure includes not asking to be accommodated before the meeting has begun.

Respectfully,
Taqua