Russia · Etiquette
Russia — Cultural Etiquette
Highest power-distance in Europe; highly restrained public conduct.
Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)
PDI
93
IDV
39
MAS
36
UAI
95
LTO
81
IND
20
Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).
What This Means in Practice
Power Distance
· 93/100Highly hierarchical: defer to age and status; using formal address is the safe default. Providers may expect more deference than you're used to.
Individualism
· 39/100Group-oriented: relationships and references matter more than transactional terms; warm small talk before business is normal.
Achievement Orientation
· 36/100Care-oriented: low ego-display, soft consensus-building style; loud or status-flexing behaviour is read as uncool.
Uncertainty Avoidance
· 95/100High uncertainty-avoidance: expect detailed booking processes, written confirmations, and rule-following. Improvising or "playing it by ear" can read as unprofessional.
Indulgence
· 20/100Restrained culture: low-key public conduct expected; flashy displays of pleasure or wealth are read as gauche.
Quick Reference
- Languages: Russian; limited English
- Currency: Russian Rouble (RUB)
- Emergency: 112 / 102 police
Related
Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.