I recently had the privilege of delivering a keynote speech at the prestigious Al Saihati International Multicultural Conference in London. My address focused on bridging the gap in multinational environments sustainably.

The experience was remarkable, and I am humbled to have been honored with The Al Saihati Award for Cultural Awareness by His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Bin Ali Al Saihati himself. 

The impact of this recognition and the deep sense of gratitude has inspired me to write this article to shed light on my deep connection and reverence for this topic.

The Key to Bridging the Cultural Gap in a              Multicultural Society

In a multicultural society, the practical and respectful bridging of the gap between cultures is crucial for sustainable growth that can last for generations. While it may not come as a surprise to my readers, it may come as a surprise to most that I believe etiquette plays a pivotal role in achieving this worthwhile goal. 

Please take a moment to explore how modern etiquette, viewed beyond its traditional boundaries, can help us navigate the complexities of cultural diversity and establish meaningful connections in a globalized world.

To do this, you must first understand how I see etiquette not as a set of outdated rules            but as a tool.

As an etiquette advisor, I use etiquette as a training tool to equip my clients with the necessary skills to navigate diverse cultural landscapes, build confidence in various social situations, and facilitate personal and professional growth. 

Yes, etiquette is a set of rules and norms, but at the foundation, etiquette is about consideration, respect, kindness, and honesty. Etiquette allows us to navigate within our cultural constructs and extends its influence when we venture into cultures different from our own. By embracing how we utilize etiquette, we enhance our receptiveness to other cultures. 

Etiquette goes beyond superficial customs and practices. 

It plays a fundamental role in building a cohesive society and can do so locally and globally by bridging cultural gaps, connecting people, and establishing trust for more effective relationships. Its enduring impact on us and our interactions cannot be overstated.

Dubai: A Seamless Model of Bridging Cultural Gaps

My second home away from home, where I chose to reside and raise my family, is where I have witnessed firsthand the values that American Etiquette Expert Emily Post coins as the cornerstones of etiquette, consideration, honesty, and respect. 

The complexity of the multicultural landscape in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is impressive, with the population increasing by over 9 million in the last 43 years. I wouldn’t dare even begin to imagine that the cohesive society of so many different cultures in such a short period was an easy phenomenon to anticipate.

How do they accomplish this cohesive society?

The leadership mindset in Dubai is focused on sustainable growth, tolerance, acceptance, and embracing differences. They showcase their initiatives yearly and are communicated and well received nationally through government centers, businesses, and messages throughout the city. For one, it is a national initiative. By communicating a letter of acceptance and hospitality and bridging the gap, Dubai provides an environment where residents and nationals can thrive together.

Accountability to Your Values

Of course, you can say you want to create a tolerant and happy society, but how can you do that? In the United Arab Emirates, there is accountability to its values, and it is shown through the consistency in its messaging in various initiatives, especially across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The city is dedicated to educating and accepting its citizens and residents. 

The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding aims to bridge the gap between nationals and expatriates, fostering mutual understanding and respect. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has emphasized the importance of the well-being of citizens in the UAE’s constantly evolving economy.

The Abrahamic Religion Church Complex in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the remarkable cohesiveness and peaceful nature of the core value of UAE Leadership and its people. A mosque, a church, and a synagogue resurrected in the nation’s capital go even a step further to symbolize the harmonious coexistence of different faiths in the United Arab Emirates. 

It is a powerful reminder that, despite our diverse religious or cultural backgrounds, we can come together in mutual respect and understanding and enjoy each other, vehicle staying true to our values and accepting others with awe and respectful curiosity. 

It truly pinpoints one focus The Mindset of the Leadership of the UAE.

As I advise my clients to shape their awareness and understanding of embracing the world with an open mind that is considerate and respectful of others, the leadership in the UAE has been at the forefront of this trend. 

Where Does Etiquette Fit In?

By now, you may question how etiquette can relate to this same vein and add a dimension and layer to this cross-cultural understanding.

With over 3,800 cultures worldwide, I would not advocate that one could begin to understand the in-depth and significant nuances of each culture’s etiquette rules and protocol. 

However, actual cultural bridging extends beyond surface-level knowledge. It lies in the mindset with which we approach cross-cultural interactions.

Instead of focusing on how we hold spoons or the time-old imagery of ladies having a sophisticated tea party, etiquette taught others how to behave in society. Modern Etiquette rules that will bridge the gap in all relationships must be built on the virtues of consideration, honesty, respect, understanding, and cultural partnership.

As an Etiquette Advisor, I coach my clients through personal and professional growth through these principles, teaching the basics of applying these rules as a desire to develop your relationships. I then implore the rules of etiquette as a tool to help clients manage social situations.

If there’s one thing you must grasp from this concept, let it be this:

Simply going through the motions of the rules of etiquette without truly internalizing the values of consideration, kindness, and respect will leave us exposed and lacking sustainable relationships.

We can sustainably bridge the cultural gaps in our relationships, communities, and businesses by approaching new situations with the mindset of embodying the core values of etiquette. 

As an advisor, leaving you there would be out of my nature. So I must provide you a roadmap of sorts to further ignite your passion and guide you on a journey toward lasting transformation that will benefit you not only in your interactions with others in your community, workspaces, and social groups to embrace the core values of etiquette and build sustainable, lasting bridges for a cohesive global society. 

What can you do today to dedicate yourself to the values of etiquette and bridging the gaps in our communities, business, and relationships to embrace cultural sensitivity?

Rebrand your Mindset Towards your Interactions with Others

Cultivate a mindset of growth and curiosity. By recognizing that the world is a tapestry of diverse experiences and perspectives, you acknowledge that every person you encounter has a unique story to share and valuable insights. By embracing this mindset, you will cultivate a positive and respectful curiosity toward different cultures and perspectives and develop trust and a desire to share, work and grow together. 

Choosing respectful curiosity fuels your willingness to engage in conversations, ask questions, and seek knowledge about other people and cultures. It opens the door to new insights, broadens your perspective, and promotes empathy and inclusivity.

Continue to Build Your Self Awareness and Emotional Intelligence

Understanding your self, biases, behavior patterns, and communication style will guide you when approaching cross-cultural interactions with more empathy and adaptability. This self-awareness will enable you to communicate and connect with others more effectively and inclusively.

Develop your Soft Skills

As a soft skills coach, I would implore people to develop as many soft skills as possible. However, I will highlight that one of the most critical ways to bridge the gap between cultures effectively is to create active and engaged listening & appreciative and respectful communication.  

Positive and engaged body language conveys openness and receptiveness to others so they know you are listening and interested in what they say. It creates a safe environment for meaningful dialogue and understanding.

Employing positive and appreciative language fosters a constructive and harmonious environment where individuals feel valued and respected. By developing this communication style, you will be better equipped to manage your interactions with others, building strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect, which is fundamental to bridging cultural gaps and fostering a harmonious and inclusive society.

This is why etiquette emerges as a powerful tool for effectively and respectfully bridging the gap between cultures.

By adopting a mindset of respect and consideration for others, developing self-awareness of ourselves and how we interact with the world, and committing to navigating the world with curiosity and awe to establish meaningful connections, we foster understanding of all of those we are in contact with and contribute to the sustainable growth of diverse and vibrant societies. I hope as a society. We can embrace etiquette as a guiding principle in building a more connected, harmonious world and enlightened global citizens. 

Stay Elegant,