One of the most successful global economies, this oil-rich nation is composed of seven states and is considered the most liberal among the conservative nations of the GCC. It is a favoured tourist destination and boasts some of the most developed economic centres in the Middle East.  Its appeal and bountiful employment opportunities have made the UAE one of the most culturally diverse places in Asia. Consequently, there is a constant need for comprehensive translation and interpretation services throughout the region. English has become the dominant language while Arabic, its official language, is in danger of disappearing. This has led to an emerging need to find new ways of teaching and preserving this historic language.

China holds its own as one of the most intriguing places in the world to visit, and is one of the most potentially lucrative in which to set up business. Its massive population is an enticing draw to companies seeking new markets, and the country’s economic prosperity continues to attract a variety of business interests. Over 200 languages are spoken in and around China, however, creating barriers to communication for new investors. This makes professional translation and interpretation services essential for any company seeking to enter the Chinese market. Additionally, an appreciation and understanding of Chinese cultural norms and practices will greatly ease the way to more meaningful communication with potential clients.

Many westerners think of Moscow or St. Petersburg when they consider a country that covers one-eighth of the world’s inhabited land mass. Russia, however, is much more than its urbanized European sector. The country spans eleven time zones and stretches across all of Northern Asia. It holds the world’s largest freshwater lake, the highest peak in Europe, and vast plains of steppe and tundra. It’s a country that’s as ecologically diverse as it is culturally complex. There are over 170 ethnic groups in the Federation, but the Russian language is spoken throughout.  Many Russians recognize the need to acquire second language skills, and a knowledge of English is preferred in over 95% of job vacancies requiring the use of a foreign language. To stay competitive, translation services and interpreters must know not only Russian, French, English and German, but many others which have become commonplace in this increasingly multi-cultural market.

Unlike many other parts of the Middle East and Northern Africa that have been adversely affected by political turmoil, Saudi Arabia has maintained a stable and attractive business milieu. This is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, with a strong currency (the Saudi Riyal) that has seen no significant change in its exchange value over the past three decades. Saudi culture has been shaped by the Kingdom’s Islamic heritage, which influences all forms of personal, social and business interactions. The official language is Arabic, but the rapid expansion of international investment has brought Chinese, Tagalog, German, French, Japanese, Hindi, Urdu and a host of other languages to the boardroom table. Foreigners doing business in Saudi Arabia will usually require translation services, and interpreters may be required for formal meetings and negotiations. Assistance from native speakers will avoid the likelihood of miscommunication and the possibility of causing offence.