Edinburgh Dress Code

For business meetings, both men and women wear suits. Socially, the British tend to have an informal yet presentable dress code. It is, however, advisable for men to bring a jacket and tie for dining out at exclusive restaurants where more formal dress may be required.

Greeting Someone in Edinburgh

A friendly handshake is the standard greeting for all purposes in Edinburgh. The Scottish are extremely hospitable and sociable, and business meetings are often held over meals. First-name terms are not the norm until you are better acquainted; however, this can happen fairly rapidly and meetings are often slightly less than formal.

Edinburgh Business Hours and Banking

Business hours in the United Kingdom vary from one industry and sector to another but in general, most office environments will operate between 09:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday. The majority of banks in Scotland are open between 09:00 and 16:00, Monday to Friday, with some of the larger banks also opening on Saturday.

Edinburgh Smoking

The British have neither a positive nor a negative attitude towards smoking. Some restaurants may have a no-smoking policy but most tend to have areas catering for both those who want to smoke and those who do not. As far as social etiquette is concerned, although the issue is far less important than it is in the United States, it is still best to smoke in like-minded company.