Exploring the Impact of a Leading Voice on Modern Manners in the Middle East
Carmen Hajjar is a distinguished Lebanese etiquette and protocol expert, author, and one of the Middle East’s most influential voices on modern manners. Internationally certified by EuroProtocol (Belgium) and Minding Manners (England), she seamlessly blends classical protocol with a dynamic teaching style that resonates with contemporary audiences. With an impressive online community of over one million followers—who affectionately refer to her as the “Queen of Etiquette”—Carmen’s concise, practical videos on dining, social, and professional etiquette have attracted millions of views, igniting a renewed interest in grace, civility, and cultural fluency across the region.
As a trusted educator for both public and private leaders, Carmen has conducted workshops for prominent corporations throughout Lebanon and the GCC. She has crafted personalized programs for high-profile individuals, including celebrities and politicians, and led engaging group sessions for adults, youth, and children alike. Her leadership in the field is exemplified by her role in training junior Lebanese diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, where she equipped the next generation of representatives with the poise and cross-cultural protocol necessary for success on the global stage.
Carmen’s impactful work and thought leadership have garnered attention from regional and international media. The Saudi Times recently spoke to Carmen, highlighting her remarkable journey and insights into the importance of etiquette in today’s world. We are delighted to feature her profile, showcasing a leader who stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. Carmen champions respect, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness as essential skills for life and leadership in today’s Gulf and beyond.
In 2024, Carmen Hajjar published “Dining Etiquette: One Tip Per Page,” a clear, accessible, and confidence-building companion for anyone navigating the dining experience. With one easy-to-master tip on every page, the book provides readers with practical techniques to refine their manners and feel at ease in any setting—from formal banquets to informal business lunches. True to Hajjar’s philosophy, it meets readers where they are and transforms small, repeatable habits into polished, professional behaviors.
“Etiquette is a universal language that can be learned and spoken at any age,” she told The Saudi Times. Whether in the boardroom, at a state function, or on social media, she continues to inspire respect, cultural fluency, and emotional intelligence as vital skills for life and leadership across the Gulf and beyond.
