Officially called the Arab Republic of Egypt, it is considered as one of the most progressive countries in the Middle East.

Not only it is steeped in history and culture, being a cradle of one of the world's greatest civilizations, it is also considered a gateway country of Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Because of this, business practices here may resemble either European or Arab practices, or probably anything in between.

Do not wear traditional clothing - Foreigners in Egypt are expected to abide by local standards of modesty. However, wearing traditional clothes may be viewed as offensive to some Egyptians.

Most of the body should be covered - Despite the intense heat during the day, both men and women must always remain conservative in clothing. Even men should never wear shorts and even t-shirts in public.

Meanwhile, women are expected to wear clothes with high neckline and sleeves that is at least to the elbows. Hemlines should at least be well below the knee. Achieve a "baggy" fit on your clothes, therefore pants or pant suits are not recommended.

Women should bring a scarf at all times - It is a good idea to keep a scarf handy, especially if entering a Mosque.

Jacket-and-tie combo is a must - Even if they have a low company stature, men are usually required to wear a jacket and tie during business meetings.

Personal space depends on gender - Space relationships among members of the same sex will be much closer than North Americans and Europeans are comfortable with. Egyptians would tend to stand close and moving away may be a sign of aloofness.

Meanwhile, men and women stand farther apart from each other than what foreigners are accustomed to.

Arabic is read differently - The Arabic language is read from right to left. Books and magazines start at what would be the last page in the United States. Printed literature should have an impressive back cover, even if it is printed in English.

Expect some language barrier - Almost all Egyptians speak Arabic, while many international business people would speak in English, French, or both.

Work is from Saturday to Wednesday - As you can see, Saturdays and Sundays are not considered weekends in Egypt. Friday is a holy day among Muslims and no business would be conducted.

Some government offices are closed on Thursdays and Fridays, while others close on Fridays and Saturdays. Also, most business offices close at 2:00 p.m. during working days.

Holidays are complex - The Hijri calendar follows the cycles of the moon, which is why its holidays usually don't fall on the same day as the previous year. It is best to inquire or learn about upcoming Islamic holidays before making plans.

Avoid wearing visible jewelry - Keep your accessories to a minimum. Avoid wearing jewelry that is easily noticed, particularly around the neck.

Avoid sitting with your legs crossed - Showing the sole of your shoe is considered an siult to another person. Sit with both feet flat on th ground at all times.

It is common to smoke in public - When smoking in a public place, be considerate to others present and offer your cigarettes.

Always let someone walk ahead of you - This is considered a sign of respect towards others.

Take note of hand gestures - Never use your left hand in gesturing. The left hand is considered unclean among Arabs. Doing the thumb's up sign or tapping your two index fingers together is considered vulgar and inappropriate.