The Surprising Key to Bridging Cultural Gaps in a Multicultural Society
May 27, 2023
I recently had the privilege of delivering a keynote speech at the prestigious Al Saihati International Multicultural Conference in London. My address focused on the sustainable ways we can bridge cultural gaps in multi-national communities.
The experience was truly remarkable, and I am humbled and honored to receive The Al Saihati Award for Cultural Awareness from His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Bin Ali Al Saihati.
The profound impact of the ideas shared during the conference and my deep gratitude for being invited to attend and speak have inspired me to write this article to discuss my insights on this topic with you.

The key to bridging cultural gaps in a multicultural society
In a multicultural society, the practical and respectful bridging of the gaps between cultures is crucial for sustainable growth. While it may not surprise 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 with me 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To do this, you must first understand how I see etiquette not as a set of outdated rules but as a tool.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 its foundation, etiquette is about consideration, respect, kindness, and honesty.
Etiquette not only allows us to effectively navigate within our own cultural constructs, but it also extends its assistance when we venture into cultures different from our own.
By embracing the values of etiquette and familiarizing ourselves with what the rules can teach us, we enhance our confidence in different situations and our receptiveness to the people and cultures we come in contact with.

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 connecting people and establishing trust for more effective relationships. Its enduring impact on global society 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 people from around the world in the last 43 years.
Dubai has handled this influx gracefully and sustainably, making it feel like a miracle. Of course, I know as a resident, this accomplishment was not achieved by chance.
How do Dubai Accomplish this Phenomenon?

For one, it is a national initiative. By communicating a message of acceptance and hospitality for all, Dubai provides an environment where residents and nationals can thrive together.
The leadership mindset in Dubai is focused on sustainable growth, tolerance, acceptance, and embracing differences which they showcase with their yearly initiatives that are communicated and well received through government centers, businesses, and printed messages throughout the city.
You must Have Accountability to Your Values

The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding aims to bridge the gaps 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.
Through this initiative and many others throughout the city, the country has come together to lean into growth and these values. Citizens, residents, and companies all participate in learning and accepting the culture of not only the country they live in but of the cultures of those around them.
The Abrahamic Religion Church Complex in Abu Dhabi stands as 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 serves as a potent reminder that, despite our diverse backgrounds, whether religious or otherwise, we can come together in mutual respect and understanding and enjoy each other while staying true to our values and accepting others with awe and respectful curiosity.
It All Comes Down to 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?
With over 3,800 cultures worldwide, one could not begin to understand the in-depth and significant nuances of each culture’s etiquette rules and protocol.
Actual bridging of cultural gaps extends beyond surface-level knowledge. It lies in the mindset with which we approach cross-cultural interactions.
This mindset is one that modern etiquette embodies: 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. I teach the rules of etiquette as a tool to be used in their daily lives, which will help them manage various professional and social situations. I focus on these principles, teaching the application of these rules as a desire to develop relationships rather than a desire to be more elegant and sophisticated – although, in my humble opinion, that results from self-awareness and consideration for others.
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 one lacking the skills to build and develop sustainable relationships.
It is through the idea of approaching any new situation with the mindset of embodying these core values that we can bridge the cultural gaps in our relationships, communities, and businesses.

Through this initiative and many others throughout the city, the country has come together to lean into growth and these values. Citizens, residents, and companies all participate in learning and accepting the culture of not only the country they live in but of the cultures of those around them.
How Can You Integrate this
Mindset into your own life?

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.
A journey towards 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.
Rebrand your Mindset Towards your
Interactions with Others
Cultivate a mindset of growth and curiosity. By recognizing that the world is full of diverse experiences and perspectives, you must decide to acknowledge that every person you encounter has a unique story to share and valuable insights to offer.
By embracing this mindset, you will not only cultivate a positive and respectful curiosity toward different cultures and perspectives, but you will also 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 yourself, your biases, behavior patterns, and communication style will guide you when approaching any situation, especially 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, there are many soft skills that I would implore people to develop.
Still, one of the essential skills when building relationships is to develop active and engaged listening practices. Of course, you must also support this through appreciative and respectful communication.
Positive and engaged body language shows you are open and receptive to what others are saying. This will help to create an open and honest place for meaningful dialogue and understanding.
I urge everyone to develop a positive and appreciative communication style. By adopting this style of communication, not only will others be more receptive to what you are communicating, they will feel more heard and respected.
When everyone has a seat at the table, you will be better able to build relationships of trust and respect, which is essential in any relationship but especially when building relationships with cultural differences.
The Key is Etiquette
As modeled in Dubai, tolerance and acceptance are at the core of bridging the gaps in multicultural societies, and it is an influential model.

By embracing etiquette and its values personally, we will develop respect and consideration for others, self-awareness of ourselves and how we interact with the world, and a commitment to establishing meaningful connections with others in our personal life, workspaces, and communities.
This will build a bridge to connect the gaps between cultures in our communities with a strong foundation built on mutual respect and understanding. Everyone will have a seat at the table, and we will have strong, diverse, and vibrant societies.
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,
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