All banks are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Business hours for commercial operations vary but generally are from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. For example, the guaranty of civil rights for women was introduced to Uruguay 50 years before such a movement swept through the U.S. in the 1970s. Unlike some Latin countries, there is no rigid class system, which benefits a relatively few long-established, influential families. Ritual forms of courtesy and politeness are practiced and adhered to in all levels of society.
Much care is taken to protect the dignity of the individual.
Uruguayans recognize the characteristic U.S. directness and practicality. Notwithstanding the growing number of English-speakers in Uruguay, marketing and promotional materials should all be supplied in Spanish. There are a few differences in business practices that should be noted, including the Uruguayan attitudes toward punctuality and deadlines. While North Americans see a lack of promptness as impolite, inefficient or a sign of indifference, Uruguayans see slaving to a clock distasteful. Therefore, is not considered disrespectful to arrive slightly late to a business appointment.