Management development and entrepreneurs in the Arab Gulf countries

Management development and entrepreneurs in the Arab Gulf countries

Published Date

May 22, 2012

For the past couple of years, Andromeda Simulations International has been working directly with organizations in Saudi Arabia and the UAE to meet the growing demand for improved business acumen amid rapid regional changes.

A Legacy of Trade and Transformation

Humans have been journeying out of Africa through this region for over 100,000 years—some settling and others moving on. Trade has long been the engine of economic growth.

  • Historical Context:
    The Romans actively traded with India via Arabian caravans and seaports. Even today, bargaining plays a central role in daily activities, much more so than in Europe or the Americas.

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Modern Challenges in Business Management

While bargaining has deep historical roots, it isn’t enough for effective modern business management:

  • The Impact of Oil:
    The discovery of oil has led to the creation of enormous companies. For example, the privately held Saudi Aramco boasts about twice the sales of the world’s largest public corporations. This wealth has generated significant opportunities—but also major challenges.
  • Key Challenges:
    1. Developing Local Talent: There is a critical need to cultivate management skills among the local population rather than relying solely on expatriate expertise.
    2. Cultural Evolution: Transitioning from traditional farming, fishing, and nomadic lifestyles to an urban, entrepreneurial culture is essential for preparing the next generation for global business—especially when the era of easy hydrocarbon wealth eventually wanes.

Our Engagement in the Region

Andromeda Simulations International is actively addressing these challenges through:

  • Senior Management Development:
    Partnering with organizations such as the Saudi Electricity Company to build leadership skills.
  • Business Literacy and Entrepreneurship:
    Collaborating with Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Fund to foster entrepreneurial mindsets and financial literacy.

We are proud to be engaged in one of the most dynamic and exciting regions on the planet, playing a part in the evolution of global business leadership.


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