Business Etiquette

The slow pace of island life is a typical aspect of doing business in the Comoros, where nothing happens too quickly or professionally. Business dress is tidy but fairly casual, although, as it is an Islamic country, women are expected to dress conservatively. Women are traditionally subservient to men and do not generally hold key positions in business in Comoros, so visiting businesswomen may find that they are not treated with the same respect as their male counterparts. Comorians avoid raising their voice in a work environment – and certainly, avoid using bad language – keeping their tone as neutral as possible. It’s also disrespectful to interrupt other people when they’re speaking.

Business is usually conducted in French, and occasionally in Arabic, but few people speak English. Business hours are generally from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday (with some businesses staying open until 5:30 p.m.), Fridays until 11 a.m. (Islamic holy day), and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. During the holy month of Ramadan, very little business is conducted.