A Regional Guide to Depositions in the Middle East (updated 2020)

Ian Hardy - July 2, 2020

Are there any restrictions on holding a U.S. depo in …

No
Taking U.S. depositions in Bahrain is permissible and in general, you can depose willing witnesses in Bahrain without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts.
No
Taking U.S. depositions in Dubai is permissible and in general, you can depose willing witnesses in Dubai without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts.
Yes
Taking voluntary depositions of U.S. citizens in Israel can be conducted without any special permissions. However, depositions of Israeli citizens and third country nationals require prior permission from the Israeli Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention.
Yes
Jordanian authorities have advised the U.S. Embassy that voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters may be taken before U.S. consular officers in Jordan pursuant to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
No
Taking U.S. depositions in Kuwait is permissible and in general, you can depose willing witnesses in Kuwait without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts.
No
Taking U.S. depositions in Morocco is permissible and in general, you can depose willing witnesses in Morocco without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts.
No
Taking U.S. depositions in Saudi Arabia is permissible and in general, you can depose willing witnesses in Saudi Arabia without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts.
Yes
Taking voluntary depositions of U.S. citizens in Turkey can be conducted without any special permissions. However, depositions of Turkish citizens and third country nationals require prior permission from theTurkish Central Authority.
No
Taking U.S. depositions in the United Arab Emirates is permissible and in general, you can depose willing witnesses in the United Arab Emirates without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts.

Countries That Require Visas for U.S. Citizens for Business, Professional or Commercial Purposes:

  • Afghanistan
  • Algeria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bahrain
  • Comoros
  • Djibouti
  • Egypt
  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Jordan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Lebanon
  • Libya
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Sudan
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkey
  • Turkmenistan
  • Uzbekistan

U.S. Citizens Eligible for a Visa Upon Arrival:

  • Mauritania
  • Somalia
  • Syria
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Yemen


Tips & Advice

Carry some cash.
While credit cards are accepted throughout the Middle East, cash is still king when you are absolutely in a bind. While we aren’t saying to be a walking ATM, do have several hundred dollars on you just in case.

Get your paper work straight.
Do make sure everyone has a passport. Do make sure everyone has a visa if applicable. Do check the embassy rules as they are constantly updated. Also, see what items are included in your travel package (insurance, tipping, forms, etc).

Be a smart traveler.
Before heading overseas:
Organize comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy.
Register your travel and contact details, so someone can contact you in an emergency.

Tipping Rules
The tipping culture is often complex and subtle in this part of the world. Middle Easterners are known for being very friendly and hospitable, with people providing too much service. In return people’s hands are out a little bit more. Remember to always keep some spare change on your person because even small amounts are greatly appreciated.

In restaurants, check your bill if gratuity is included or not. If it is already included, there is no need to give any additional tip unless service was exceptional. If the tip is not added to the bill, normally 15%-20% is good.

Useful Links

U.S. Department of State
Embassies & Consulates in the U.S.
CIA Factbook Page
U.S. Embassies Around the World
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
Detailed List on Voltage Requirements

We are always here to help! Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule a deposition in the Middle East.