Wasta or Wasata (Arabic: ??????) is an Arabic word that loosely translates into Nepotism or 'clout' or 'who you know'. It refers to using one’s connections and/or influence to get things done, including government transactions such as the quick renewal of a passport, waiving of traffic fines, and getting hired for or promoted in a job.

Wasta
Wasta
WASTA
Guanxi and Wasta: A comparison
Guanxi and Wasta : A comparison
TAMING "WASTA"TO ACHIEVE DEVELOPMENT
Wasta : the hidden force in Middle Eastern society
INTERCESSORY WASTA AND VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT IN LEBANON
Wasta in Jordan: A Distinct Feature of (and Benefit for) Middle Eastern Society
The importance of wasta in the career success of Middle Eastern managers
Regulation, trust, and cronyism in Middle Eastern societies: The simple economics of “wasta”
How Distinctive Are Indigenous Ways of Achieving Influence? A Comparative Study of Guanxi, Wasta, Jeitinho, and “Pulling Strings”
Are indigenous approaches to achieving influence in business organizations distinctive? A comparative study of guanxi, wasta, jeitin...