Lisa Elizabeth Bolton, Thesis Supervisor Lisa Elizabeth Bolton, Thesis Supervisor Jennifer Chang Coupland, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
cross-cultural marketing Arab Middle East Islam in business international business
Abstract:
As American corporations look overseas to increase commercial opportunities in emerging markets, many cross-cultural issues oftentimes arise in forming a business strategy. Differences in language, culture, norms, and values can create obstacles in the pursuit of global success. This thesis explores the social and corporate cultures of the Arab Middle East, the impact of Islamic beliefs on both, and how American companies must adapt their usual management and marketing tactics to successfully compete in this part of the world. Through extensive research and interviews with professionals with experience in the region, “Business and Islam: What is Haram?” provides a guideline for American companies looking to create successful business relationships in the Arab Middle East.
