Exploring the need for an indigenous coaching psychology for the Middle East: A panel discussion at the International Psychology Conference Dubai (IPCD)

Is coaching different in the Middle East than in the rest of the world and, if so, do we need an indigenous coaching psychology (CP) for the region? The answer of a panel discussion at the IPCD conference in Dubai was ‘yes, and’. Several distinct differences in the coaching process emerged from the conversation. Some of these differences centred on how trust and safety are created in the regional culture. Another part contrasted regional and Western understanding of coaching itself. All members of the panel indicated the need for coaches to increase their awareness for the coachee culture and the role of cultural facets in the creation of the coaching relationship. A general outline for future directions for CP in the Middle East emerged around education of coaches and coachees, understanding their lived experiences, creating an evidence-base for the coaching in region and ways to evolve coaching research and practice. Rather than simply serving a cultural ‘niche’, such developments have the potential to enrich global CP.