Country guide
Pakistan Business etiquette and meeting customs
Asia/Karachi
What kind of meeting?
Moderate punctuality
A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.
Meeting Culture
Recommended duration60+ min
Communication StyleFormal, hierarchical
Greeting StyleHandshake (same gender) or salaam
Daily Schedule
Work Hours09:00 – 17:00
Breakfast08:00 – 09:00
Lunch13:00 – 14:00
Dinner20:00 – 21:30
Sleep23:00 – 06:30
Tips for Meetings
For the kind of meeting you chose above.
Dress Code
Business formal or shalwar kameez
Tone
Formal, hierarchical
- ·Respect for seniority and authority is non-negotiable
- ·Always accept offered tea — declining is impolite
- ·Avoid scheduling during Friday Jummah prayers
- ·Use your right hand for greetings, eating, and passing objects — the left hand is considered impolite
General Tips
- ·Some flexibility in meeting times
- ·Respect for seniority and authority
- ·Hospitality — tea is always offered
- ·Friday is the holy day — avoid scheduling during Jummah prayers
Cultural Notes
- ·Friday has extended lunch break for Jummah prayers; weekend is Saturday-Sunday
Meeting someone from Pakistan?
Find the best timeCultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.
See something inaccurate? Let us know