One wrong seating arrangement, one overlooked title, or one poorly timed introduction at an official event can strain a relationship an organization spent years building. Protocol exists precisely to prevent that — and for office managers responsible for VIPs, mastering it is not a soft skill, it is core to the job.

This Training Course from the Arab British Fellowship Training Academy gives participants a working command of protocol and ceremonial practice: how to plan official events end to end, host and communicate with senior figures correctly, and adapt to different cultural and diplomatic expectations, so every interaction reflects positively on the organization they represent.

Knowledge and Benefits

After completing the programme, participants will be able to:

• Apply the fundamental principles of protocol and ceremonies in official and diplomatic settings.
• Organise high-level events and ceremonies to the highest protocol standards.
• Manage communication with senior figures and official guests with full professionalism.
• Coordinate and prepare official visits, handling the challenges that come with them.

Who Should Attend?

• VIP office managers who deal with senior figures daily.
• Those responsible for organising official events and ceremonies within institutions.
• Public relations and media staff coordinating protocol activities.
• Specialists in the logistical organisation of governmental and diplomatic events.
• Employees of international organisations dealing with official figures in varied contexts.

• Module 1: The Foundations of Protocol and the Office Manager's Role

  • The concept of protocol and ceremonies in official and diplomatic contexts
  • Why protocol matters for building official and international relationships
  • The office manager's responsibility in applying protocol day to day

• Module 2: Planning an Official Event from Start to Finish

  • Basic ceremonial rules for reception and organisation
  • Initial planning steps, timing, and venue selection for large events
  • Ensuring meticulous organisation throughout the event lifecycle

• Module 3: Meetings and Invitations Done Right

  • Organising official meetings, including seating arrangements and timing
  • Writing and following up on professional official invitations
  • Welcoming guests and managing interaction according to protocol hierarchy

• Module 4: Logistics, Hospitality, and the Ceremonial Setting

  • Coordinating transportation, accommodation, and comfort for attendees
  • Food and beverage protocols that match the nature of the event
  • Choosing venues, colours, and decorations that align with protocol requirements

• Module 5: National Symbols in Protocol — Flags, Logos, and Markings

  • Arranging flags according to official hierarchy and diplomatic sensitivity
  • Rules for raising and displaying flags at events
  • Selecting and displaying logos and official markings appropriately

• Module 6: Engaging International and Foreign Guests

  • Understanding and respecting cultural differences with international guests
  • Using correct titles and greetings when addressing important figures
  • Coordinating with embassies to receive foreign delegations

• Module 7: Coordinating with International Organisations and Travel Logistics

  • Collaborating with international organisations on official events
  • Managing legal and administrative aspects of cross-border events
  • Arranging travel and accommodation for VIPs with airlines and hotels

• Module 8: Documentation and Record-Keeping for Official Events

  • Documenting event details with precision and transparency
  • Maintaining records for future reference and accountability
  • Protocols for documenting attendance and event proceedings

• Module 9: Crisis and Emergency Management at Official Events

  • Handling unexpected problems, delays, and schedule changes
  • Emergency plans and communicating with attendees during a crisis
  • Safety protocols that protect both guests and the event's reputation

• Module 10: Managing Sensitive Relationships and Difficult Situations

  • Handling conflicts and objections during official events
  • Responding to criticism in a protocol-appropriate manner
  • Negotiation strategies for difficult, high-stakes situations