Going Home is Not the Same as Going Quiet

The Story
In Dubai, an investor noticed a counterpart had gone unreachable for several weeks in July, longer than any prior summer absence. A colleague explained the counterpart had traveled to his family's home country, a trip he made once every few years to spend real time with aging parents. The investor adjusted his expectations without complaint. When the counterpart returned, he mentioned the trip once, briefly, and was met with a simple, genuine question about how it had gone.

Cultural Principle
For many in the Gulf, particularly those with family ties elsewhere, a summer trip home carries personal weight that a routine vacation does not. Reading the difference, and extending patience accordingly, reflects genuine cultural awareness.

Takeaway
When a counterpart is away for an extended personal trip this summer, resist treating it as a standard absence. A brief, sincere question about the visit on their return often matters more than anything sent during the silence.

Warmly,
Taqua