How a Ukrainian Tech Company Secured Payment from a Saudi Debtor
The Ukrainian company had done everything they needed...
Jul 23, 2025
A Ukrainian software firm recently found itself in a difficult position after completing a project for a commercial property company based in Saudi Arabia. The work had been delivered in full, aligned with the terms of their Statement of Work, and approved by the client. Yet, payment remained outstanding.
Despite their efforts to resolve the matter amicably, including offering a discounted settlement, the debtor failed to respond meaningfully. With weeks turning into months, and communications becoming increasingly one-sided, the Ukrainian firm realised they needed a more strategic approach to recover what was rightfully theirs.
Bringing Payfor on Board
The company turned to Payfor for help. With extensive experience in international B2B debt collection, Payfor stepped in to evaluate the situation. Our team reviewed the agreement, timelines, and all prior correspondence between the two parties. The goal was to build a clear picture of what had transpired and why the debtor was stalling.
From the outset, it was evident that the case required not just persistence, but also cultural sensitivity and linguistic adaptability to break through the silence.
Unresponsive and Evasive Behaviour
Payfor initiated our standard Chase Campaign: structured emails combined with regular follow-up calls aimed at engaging the debtor. The responses that did come through were vague, dismissive, and failed to address the key issue – payment.
The debtor seemed content to delay, assuming distance and silence would discourage further pursuit. But our team continued its work undeterred, ensuring consistent pressure was applied through professional, tactful communication.
The Arabic-Speaking Intervention
As attempts to negotiate in English made little progress, Payfor escalated the case internally and introduced one of our Arabic-speaking negotiators into the conversation. The very next phone call marked a turning point.
Having a conversation in the debtor’s native language allowed us to cut through the ambiguity. Frustrations that had been simmering below the surface came to light. The debtor voiced concerns, while our negotiator provided firm yet respectful clarification on behalf of the client.
What had once felt like a brick wall suddenly became a door ajar.
A Mutually Acceptable Settlement
Following the breakthrough, both sides moved closer to a resolution. A settlement was agreed that reflected the value of the work delivered, without further delay. The debtor processed payment swiftly, and the Ukrainian software firm finally received what was owed.
The client expressed immense relief and appreciation, not only for the result, but for the manner in which it was achieved. After months of frustration, the situation was resolved without going through costly legal proceedings.
Why the Case Was a Success
This case highlights the strength of Payfor’s approach:
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We adapt to cultural and linguistic differences when engaging international debtors.
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Our 30-day Chase Campaign is designed to be persistent, yet professional and respectful.
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We know when to shift gears. By introducing an Arabic-speaking negotiator, we turned a stalled case into a successful recovery.
Lessons from This Experience
Many international debts remain unpaid not due to dispute over the work, but because of poor communication and cross-cultural misalignment. This case proves that understanding the debtor’s context, language, and culture can dramatically increase the chances of resolution.
Persistence, professionalism, and strategic negotiation matter. In the right hands, even long-standing unpaid debts can be recovered without resorting to lengthy legal action.
Let Us Help You Recover What You're Owed
Payfor combines relentless follow-up, multilingual expertise, and international legal access to deliver results. Our 30-day Chase Campaign uses a system of daily phone calls and weekly emails, designed to pressure debtors and keep the matter top of mind. When necessary, we escalate seamlessly through our global legal partners.
If your company is struggling to collect from an overseas client, we’re here to support you. Talk to us today!
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information provided in this post is based on general principles and may not apply to specific legal situations. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and can change over time. Readers are advised to seek professional legal counsel before making any decisions based on the information provided in this blog post. Payfor Ltd is not a law firm and does not provide legal services. The company disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the contents of this blog post.
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