The Government has been looking to Arab states, including Syria and Iraq, to build foreign economic links to supplement its existing ones, which rely mainly on the most active members of the Commonwealth of Independent States - the Russian Federation, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. For business meetings, visitors should dress smartly. English is widely used in management circles and knowledge of German might also be useful. Appointments should be made well in advance and should be confirmed nearer the time. Cards should have a Russian translation on the back.
Business transactions are likely to take quite a long time.
The 3-star Hotel Yubileynaya offers conference facilities for up to 250 persons, including simultaneous translation services.