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The MENA Example: How Companies In The Middle East Are Creating Superb Region-Specific Work Cultures
- WorkNourish.com
- Apr 9
- 8 min read
Companies in the MENA region are leading the way in developing unique work cultures that blend regional values with global business practices. From flexible work environments and employee well-being initiatives to a commitment to innovation and collaboration, businesses in MENA are setting new standards for how work cultures can be both region-specific and globally competitive.
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, known for its rich cultural diversity, has become a powerhouse in global business over the past few decades. With a unique blend of traditions and modernity, MENA countries are crafting distinctive work cultures that resonate with their local values while embracing global business trends. Companies in the region are not simply adopting Western business models but are innovating and tailoring work environments that meet the specific needs of their employees and the socio-economic landscape.
From large multinational corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), businesses in the Middle East region are creating dynamic work cultures that blend flexibility, community, and employee well-being with a focus on high performance. In this article, we explore how companies across MENA are shaping their work cultures and what makes them successful, including insights from regional experts and business leaders. We also highlight eight case studies of companies in different MENA countries, showcasing the diversity of approaches to creating exceptional regional work cultures.
The Importance of Region-Specific Work Cultures
In MENA, the work culture is heavily influenced by a mix of Islamic traditions, regional values, and the globalized nature of business. Companies are focusing on adapting to the unique cultural expectations of their workforce while also fostering innovation, collaboration, and personal well-being. This approach results in more engaged employees, greater job satisfaction, and a stronger commitment to corporate goals.
A key factor in shaping region-specific work cultures is the recognition of the importance of family, community, and respect in MENA societies. These values often translate into a more holistic approach to employee care, with a focus not just on work performance but also on ensuring a healthy work-life balance, professional development, and emotional well-being. Additionally, companies are increasingly prioritizing diversity and inclusion in their work environments, recognizing that the multicultural fabric of MENA can bring fresh perspectives and innovation.
Expert Insights: What Makes MENA Work Cultures Unique
Regional experts and business leaders note that MENA companies often emphasize long-term relationships over short-term gains.
"In the MENA region, relationships are key to success," says Dr. Rania A. Nashed, a business consultant and professor at the American University in Cairo. "Companies build trust with their employees by focusing on their well-being and showing a commitment to mutual growth. It's not just about the paycheck; it's about family, respect, and shared success."
Dr. Ali Al-Mohammad, a cultural consultant and expert in corporate communications based in the UAE, adds that "corporations in MENA are gradually recognizing that work culture should reflect local traditions while keeping pace with global changes. The rise of remote work, flexible hours, and a greater focus on mental health are reshaping traditional notions of workplace culture in the region. Companies in the MENA region are increasingly recognizing the importance of creating work environments that are not only productive but also reflective of the unique social fabric. Traditional values such as respect for hierarchy and community are being blended with modern concepts like work-life balance and diversity."
Regional business consultant Khaled Al-Fahd also notes, "The MENA workforce is diverse, with employees from various cultural backgrounds. Companies that create an inclusive culture—where everyone feels respected and valued—are more likely to foster loyalty, creativity, and long-term success."
With this understanding of the key cultural drivers, let's explore how companies across MENA are creating work cultures that are not only attractive but also highly effective in the region’s unique socio-economic environment.
Case Studies: How Companies in the MENA Region Are Shaping Work Cultures
1. Saudi Arabia: STC – Fostering Innovation and Flexibility in a Traditional Market
Saudi Telecom Company (STC) is one of the largest telecom providers in the Middle East. The company is recognized for its leadership in technological innovation and customer service.
STC has embraced an innovative and flexible work culture, balancing the traditional values of respect and hierarchy with cutting-edge digital transformation. The company offers a mix of flexible work hours, remote working options, and a variety of employee benefits to promote work-life balance.
STC has made strides in creating a more inclusive culture, with a particular focus on women’s empowerment. They have implemented leadership development programs to ensure equal opportunities for female employees. This inclusivity has helped the company drive innovation while ensuring that employees from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected.
“We understand the importance of creating a work environment where employees feel heard and supported, which in turn enhances their productivity and satisfaction. At STC, we combine our traditional values with the flexibility and modernity that today’s workforce demands,” said Nasser Al-Nasser, CEO of STC.
2. UAE: Dubai Holding – A Commitment to Innovation and Employee Well-being
Dubai Holding is a global investment company with businesses in real estate, hospitality, and telecommunications. Known for its futuristic approach, Dubai Holding has a significant impact on shaping Dubai’s economic and social landscape.
Dubai Holding places a high premium on the well-being of its employees. The company’s work culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and wellness, with an open office design, regular wellness programs, and a strong focus on employee development. Dubai Holding is also deeply committed to creating an inclusive work environment, particularly for women and younger employees.
The company has introduced initiatives like “Future of Work,” a program focused on remote work, flexible schedules, and upskilling programs for employees to adapt to rapidly changing industries.
“Dubai Holding is at the forefront of building a corporate culture that promotes innovation and work-life balance,” says Amit Kaushal, Group CEO of Dubai Holding. “We are committed to creating an environment where our employees thrive, which ultimately drives our success.”
3. Egypt: Jumia Egypt – Emphasizing Collaboration and Customer Focus
Jumia Egypt is a leading e-commerce platform in Egypt, often referred to as the “Amazon of Africa.” The company provides a wide array of services, from online shopping to food delivery.
Jumia Egypt has built a collaborative work culture that focuses on customer satisfaction and teamwork. The company encourages a flat organizational structure to foster communication across all levels of the business. Regular team-building activities, open-door policies, and an emphasis on customer-first thinking help employees feel motivated and empowered.
Moreover, Jumia Egypt offers employees the opportunity to work on innovative projects that improve their skills and contribute to their personal development. This approach has been particularly successful in retaining young, tech-savvy employees who are looking for more than just a paycheck.
“We believe in empowering our employees to take ownership of their projects and their growth. Our goal is to build a culture that’s not only collaborative but also focused on delivering value to our customers,” said Hossam Allam, CEO of Jumia Egypt.
4. Lebanon: Banque Libano-Française (BLF) – Prioritizing Employee Growth and Community Engagement
BLF is one of Lebanon’s largest banks, offering a wide range of financial services to individuals and businesses across the region.
BLF emphasizes employee growth, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The bank offers comprehensive training programs and leadership development opportunities to ensure that employees grow within the company. Their CSR programs, which include education and social initiatives, give employees a sense of purpose and connection to the wider community.
BLF’s leadership also places a strong emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially in Lebanon’s challenging socio-political environment. The bank fosters a supportive work environment, with a focus on mental health and providing employees with the tools they need to succeed both professionally and personally.
“At BLF, we know that our employees are the heart of our success. We invest in their growth, and we also make sure they feel supported in all aspects of their lives. A motivated and healthy workforce is the key to our continued success,” said François Bassil, CEO of BLF.
5. Jordan: Zain Jordan – Leveraging Technology for Employee Engagement
Zain Jordan is a leading telecommunications company in Jordan, known for its high-quality services and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Zain Jordan has developed a work culture centered on innovation, technology, and employee engagement. The company has invested heavily in technology to improve its internal communications and foster a more dynamic, responsive workplace. With a focus on flexibility, Zain offers remote work options and flexible working hours, allowing employees to achieve better work-life balance.
Zain Jordan also places a strong emphasis on youth employment, providing opportunities for young people to enter the tech and telecom industries. This has not only contributed to a more dynamic workforce but also created a culture of mentorship and knowledge sharing.
“We believe that technology can enhance the work environment by creating more opportunities for our employees. At Zain, we’re committed to fostering a culture where innovation is encouraged, and employees feel empowered to achieve their best,” said Hani Eskandar, CEO of Zain Jordan.
6. Oman: Oman Air – Blending Tradition with Modern Workplace Practices
Oman Air is the national carrier of Oman, known for its exceptional service and hospitality.
Oman Air’s culture is deeply influenced by Omani traditions, where respect for authority and a family-oriented approach to business are paramount. The company places a strong emphasis on employee development through its in-house training programs and leadership development initiatives. Oman Air also offers flexible schedules and a supportive work environment, which has helped it maintain high employee retention rates.
"At Oman Air, we pride ourselves on blending Omani cultural values with global business practices. Our employees are the backbone of our service, and we strive to ensure they feel valued, respected, and supported," said Abdulaziz Al Raisi, CEO of Oman Air.
7. Bahrain: Bahrain Duty-Free – Promoting Empowerment and Inclusivity
Bahrain Duty-Free is the leading duty-free retailer in Bahrain, operating in both the airport and retail sectors.
Bahrain Duty-Free fosters a work culture centered on empowerment and inclusivity. The company has introduced flexible working hours and remote work options, allowing employees to maintain a balanced lifestyle while driving productivity. It also provides leadership training programs to encourage career growth and promote a diverse and inclusive workforce.
"Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. We believe that when employees feel empowered, they are more motivated to deliver outstanding results," said Ahmed Jassim, CEO of Bahrain Duty-Free.
8. Qatar: Qatar Airways – Excellence in Service and Employee Engagement
Qatar Airways is one of the world’s leading airlines, known for its exceptional customer service and high operational standards.
Qatar Airways’ work culture is built around a strong sense of excellence and customer service. The company invests heavily in employee training, offering a wide range of professional development opportunities. Qatar Airways also promotes employee well-being through flexible work policies, wellness programs, and comprehensive health benefits. The company is committed to maintaining a culture of respect and professionalism.
"At Qatar Airways, we understand that our employees are the key to delivering the world-class service our brand is known for. By investing in their development and well-being, we ensure that they are equipped to meet the high expectations of our passengers," said Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways.
Conclusion: The MENA Approach to Work Culture
Companies in the MENA region are leading the way in developing unique work cultures that blend regional values with global business practices. From flexible work environments and employee well-being initiatives to a commitment to innovation and collaboration, businesses in MENA are setting new standards for how work cultures can be both region-specific and globally competitive.
As the region continues to evolve, businesses that embrace these cultural nuances and place a premium on employee satisfaction and development will likely see continued success. Whether large corporations like STC and Dubai Holding or smaller enterprises like Jumia Egypt and Zain Jordan, companies in MENA are proving that a well-crafted work culture can be a key driver of growth, loyalty, and business performance.
