WORKWEEK

Friday is the Muslim holy day; no business is conducted. Most people do not work on Thursday either. Thus, the workweek runs from Saturday through Wednesday, but many firms may be open at least a half day on Thursday.

Saudi officials traditionally worked six hours per day. While this has changed, mornings are usually best for appointments, since companies may close for several hours in the afternoon (which may involve the noon prayer). Confirm appointments, because schedules and business hours may vary in different parts of the Kingdom.

Some Saudi businesspeople work well after dark. Do not be surprised if you receive a request for a late-evening appointment.

Normally, employers offer a minimum of 23 paid vacation days, plus various additional paid holidays—including Eid al-Fitr (the Feast of the Breaking of the Fast, which follows Ramadan) and Eid al-Adha (the Festival of the Sacrifice). The Embassy of Saudi Arabia lists official holidays at www.saudi embassy.net.