Intercultural Workplace Interactions of Indonesian Expatriates in a Multicultural and Multinational Environment in Qatar

Abstract

This study explores the intercultural workplace adaptation experiences of Indonesian professional expatriates in Qatar, focusing on the challenges encountered during their first year of employment and the perceived factors supporting adjustment in a multinational work environment. The study employed a qualitative approach using open-ended questionnaires completed by 35 Indonesian professional expatriates working across different industries in Qatar. Responses were examined through thematic coding and interpreted with reference to intercultural communication and expatriate adjustment literature. Hofstede’s, Hall’s, and Lewis’s cultural frameworks were used as supplementary interpretive perspectives. The findings indicate that participants reported challenges involving workplace communication, language proficiency, unfamiliar interaction norms, and psychological adjustment. Previous intercultural exposure was frequently reported among participants who described relatively easier adjustment. Social relationships, professional experience, and access to practical information also emerged as relevant adjustment resources. Although cultural frameworks provided contextual insights, the findings suggest that shared national-level cultural characteristics do not necessarily translate into similar workplace experiences within multinational settings. The study provides context-specific qualitative insights into Indonesian professional expatriates’ workplace adaptation in Qatar. It highlights the relevance of prior intercultural exposure and accessible support resources while identifying areas for further investigation into expatriate adjustment and institutionally supported orientation initiatives.