The Story
In Abu Dhabi, an investor was offered two joint ventures in the same season. The first had stronger projections and a partner she had met twice. The second was more modest, with a family she had worked alongside for years. She chose the second. Her advisor questioned the decision. She explained that she already knew how this family behaved when plans went wrong.

Cultural Principle
An old Arabic saying advises choosing the neighbor before the house. In Gulf business the same order holds, because a partner will outlast the project you begin together.

Takeaway
Ask who you will be sitting with in year five, not only what you will build in year one. The relationship is the asset that carries every other one.

Ma'salama,
Taqua