Managerial values in the greater Middle East: Similarities and differences across seven countries

Our study of the cultural values of managers in the Greater Middle East uses a unique sample of 989 respondents across seven countries (Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Pakistan, Turkey, and the UAE). The primary focus of our paper is the assessment of the differences and similarities in collectivism, individualism, and universalism values within the region. While acknowledging that the empirical research foundation for the Middle East is minimal, we develop directional hypotheses based upon the historic socio-cultural influences and contemporary economic and political factors that may influence business ideology. In sum, our findings show significant between-country differences for all three of these values dimensions. We conclude with a discussion of these differences and why they may have occurred. We also provide suggestions for new avenues of research that our findings indicate are relevant.

► Examined values orientations of 989 businesspersons in seven Greater Middle East countries.
► Found cross-national heterogeneity in values (collectivism, individualism, universalism).
► Insights from research findings provided and new avenues for research are explored.