Challenging assumptions and unlocking opportunity

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The question of whether Western women can succeed in business in the Middle East is frequently asked—and often misunderstood. Despite common misconceptions, women can not only succeed in the region but may also find unique advantages in doing so.

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Access to both professional spheres
Women in business are often able to build relationships with both male and female counterparts in the Middle East, which can open doors and broaden networks in ways that may not be as accessible to male colleagues. This dual access can be a strategic asset in a culturally layered business environment.

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The power of cultural awareness
Understanding and respecting local customs is essential. For instance, in countries like Kuwait, which is more traditional than Dubai but less conservative than Saudi Arabia, women are not required to wear an abaya or headscarf, but modest dress and respectful behavior are expected. In business settings, it's appropriate to let male colleagues initiate a handshake or respond with a polite nod if they do not offer one.

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Respect and professionalism go both ways
Many executives and officials in the region treat Western women with courtesy and professionalism. There is widespread recognition that women from abroad often hold senior roles and travel internationally for business. These women are generally respected for their expertise and contributions, particularly when they demonstrate professionalism and cultural understanding.

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Turning cultural dynamics into business strength
Success in the Middle East as a woman depends not only on business acumen but also on emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity. Approaching interactions with thoughtfulness and respect builds trust and credibility. In many cases, what may initially seem like a challenge can evolve into a competitive advantage.

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Conclusion
Western women can absolutely succeed in business in the Middle East. With professionalism, cultural awareness, and an open-minded approach, women can build strong relationships, gain respect, and seize valuable opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic and growing markets.

Tailored international legal support

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Doing business abroad with the right legal guidance

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Cross-border expertise from the Netherlands

With our extensive experience in international business, we are well-equipped to support you in entering foreign markets. We understand which legal matters can be managed from the Netherlands and when it is wise to involve a local legal expert. This approach allows you to responsibly manage foreign risks while reducing costs by engaging external support only when truly necessary. Our global network includes a strong focus on Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

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Specialized knowledge of the Middle East and Iran

We possess in-depth knowledge of the Middle East and Iran, including the diverse mentalities and business practices across the region. By combining our cultural insight with expertise in Dutch and international law, we offer legal solutions tailored to the specific needs of businesses and individuals operating in or with these markets.

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Comprehensive legal support in Europe

If you are planning to operate in the Benelux, German, French, or Spanish markets, we provide full legal support. From drafting various types of agreements to advising on the most appropriate corporate structure, we guide you through every stage of your European business venture. You can rely on the expert legal services of International Legal Safeguard to support your growth abroad.

Careful preparation is essential for success in this complex market

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Export restrictions

Before exporting goods to Iran, confirm whether your products are permitted. Items such as dual-use goods and certain technologies are subject to strict international sanctions and may require special export licenses. It is crucial to assess whether your business activities are subject to sanctions when dealing with Iranian entities.

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Useful tools include:

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• EU Sanctions Tool – Iran: Assists in determining whether your planned activities comply with EU sanctions.
• EU Sanctions Map: Offers an overview of sanctions against Iran, including lists of sanctioned individuals and entities, as well as official sanction texts.

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Know who you are dealing with

Iran’s business environment often involves multiple intermediaries, making it challenging to identify the ultimate buyer or business partner. Conducting thorough due diligence is essential to verify the identity and reliability of your counterparts.
Due diligence investigations in Iran typically cost between €5,000 and €15,000, depending on the scope and complexity of the case.

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Transport challenges

There is no direct transport route between Iran and Europe. All goods must transit through intermediary countries such as Turkey or the UAE. This adds logistical complexity and cost. It is therefore critical to work with experienced freight partners who understand the regional challenges and regulations.

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Payment limitations

Iran is not connected to the SWIFT global banking network. This makes direct bank transfers and credit card transactions impossible. Payments are generally made through alternative channels, such as third-party banks or intermediaries in other countries. These methods often require creative yet fully compliant financial solutions.

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In summary

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Doing business in Iran is possible—but only with careful planning and strict compliance. Success depends on:

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• Conducting rigorous due diligence
• Ensuring compliance with export and sanction regulations
• Planning complex logistics
• Using innovative, legally compliant payment methods

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With the right preparation and trusted legal guidance, Iran can be a viable and rewarding market.

Navigating business in France, Germany, and Spain

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Understanding cultural and legal distinctions across key European markets

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France: formality and hierarchy

In France, business is grounded in formal communication and structured interactions. Trust is essential but takes time to build. Early-stage meetings tend to be formal, and punctuality is expected. Hierarchy plays a central role—addressing individuals by their titles is a sign of respect and professionalism.

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Legal landscape:

France has a highly regulated labor market with strong employee protections. This significantly impacts employment terms and contract negotiations. Businesses must navigate complex labor laws, especially around dismissals and working condition

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Germany: precision and structure

German business culture values efficiency, directness, and clear communication. Meetings are well-organized, and decisions are made after thorough analysis and discussion. While hierarchy exists, there is also a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and accountability.

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Legal landscape:

Germany's legal system is rigid and detailed. Contracts are comprehensive and strictly enforced. Businesses must comply with strict data protection rules, robust labor regulations, and rigorous environmental standards.

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Spain: relationships and flexibility

In Spain, personal relationships are central to doing business. Trust is built gradually, often through informal but respectful interactions. Compared to France and Germany, the Spanish approach is more relaxed, though professionalism remains important. Negotiations are often flexible and creative, but decision-making may take longer.

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Legal landscape:

Spain has detailed and sometimes bureaucratic labor laws. Hiring processes can be more complex, and regional differences—especially in taxation and labor rules—require attention. Autonomous regions may impose distinct regulations, affecting compliance strategies.

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In summary

To succeed in these markets, align your approach with local business customs:

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• France: Formal, hierarchical, and regulation-heavy
• Germany: Direct, structured, and compliance-focused
• Spain: Relationship-based, flexible, but regionally complex

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Understanding both the cultural expectations and the legal frameworks of each country is essential for building strong, compliant, and effective business operations across Europe.

Our fee structure

Transparent pricing tailored to your needs

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Our standard hourly rate is €125, excluding travel expenses and 21% VAT. This rate may be adjusted depending on the complexity, scope, or urgency of your matter.

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In some cases, we are happy to provide a cost estimate in advance, which may result in a fixed fee agreement for the work to be carried out. All rates are subject to annual review and adjustment.

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If you have any questions or would like to discuss your case, please feel free to contact us by phone or via our app. We’re here to help.

Supporting businesses of all sizes with tailored legal solutions

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At International Legal Safeguard, we work with companies ranging from small startups to multinational corporations, across a wide spectrum of industries. Our approach is always practical, flexible, and tailored to the unique needs of your organization.

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SMEs and Startups

We specialize in helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups enter and operate in international markets. Our services include:

• Drafting and reviewing general terms and conditions
• Preparing and negotiating international contracts
• Advising on cross-border compliance and legal structuring

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Multinational corporations

For larger organizations, we offer specialized interim legal services, including:

• Contract management
• Claim management
• Employment law advisory
  With a strong focus on minimizing legal risk and ensuring operational continuity, we integrate seamlessly into your existing legal or compliance teams.

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Industry-specific expertise

Oil & Gas
We have extensive experience in the oil and gas sector, particularly with LOGIC contracts and BIMCO agreements. We support clients in exploration, production, and supply chain projects throughout the Middle East and Europe.

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Construction & Real Estate
Our team advises on EPC contracts, infrastructure projects, and real estate developments, ensuring proper risk allocation and compliance throughout each project phase.

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Retail & Distribution
We draft and negotiate franchise, distribution, and agency agreements, helping clients build and protect international sales channels.

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Other sectors
Our legal expertise also extends to:

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• Healthcare
• Energy and renewables
• Professional services
  We ensure your operations align with local regulations and international legal standards.

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Your global legal partner

Regardless of your size or sector, we deliver custom legal solutions that support your business goals and reduce cross-border risk. Let us help you navigate global markets with confidence.

In which countries do you offer services?

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Specialized legal support where local knowledge matters most

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At International Legal Safeguard, we provide legal services worldwide, with a strong focus on international contracts and international employment law. While we are equipped to assist clients across various jurisdictions, we offer exceptional value in regions where we have lived, worked, and built trusted networks.

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Expertise in the Middle East and Iran

We possess in-depth knowledge of Iran, the Middle East, and especially the Gulf States. Our experience in these regions goes beyond legal frameworks—we understand the cultural, regulatory, and business dynamics that influence successful operations. This allows us to deliver practical, locally attuned legal solutions to companies active in these markets.

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Established presence in Western Europe

We are also highly experienced in France, Germany, Belgium, and Spain, where we have strong professional connections and a deep understanding of:

• Local legal systems and procedures
• Business practices and negotiation styles
• Native languages and regulatory environments

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Focused support where it matters most

While we support clients globally, these key regions are where we offer the most comprehensive and nuanced service. Our regional expertise ensures that your legal strategies are both globally sound and locally effective.