Greetings
Understanding the local customs and etiquette is essential when traveling to Saudi Arabia. For example, greetings offer an excellent opportunity to start on the right foot and make a good impression. Therefore, it is vital to be respectful and follow local customs when greeting Saudi Arabian people. This article will provide an overview of the different types of greetings and the correct way to greet people in the country.
Handshakes
In Saudi Arabia, greetings are essential and should be done perfectly. A handshake is typical when meeting someone new, but this may depend on the familiarity between the two people. Generally, a handshake is suitable when greeting adults, though only sometimes expected. It is polite to wait for the other person to initiate a handshake. When meeting an older adult or religious leader, it is more common to bow than to shake hands. Women should not start handshakes with men; if a woman offers her hand first, it is polite for the man to accept her gesture. Between men and women who are related, greeting rituals are more relaxed; they could either hug each other or kiss their cheeks three times through the air (the latter is more traditional).
When meeting or parting with family or close friends, a hug and one or three kisses on alternate cheeks may take place after shaking hands (in some cases, men will do this with all adults regardless of relation). This ritual of showing affection, especially in public places by young people and adults alike, has become more frequent over recent years.
Language
Expressions of greeting exist in every culture and era. Across many languages, cultures, and ages, there are phrases for expressing various greetings. Even if the language changes, the feeling remains similar—a warm welcome must come from an open heart.
Each language also has its nuances when it comes to greeting people. From casual expressions with family members to respected forms of address in formal settings, understanding how to say “hello” is essential when interacting with people from different backgrounds. Here are some common examples:
- English – Hi, Hello
- French – Bonjour
- Spanish – Hola
- German – Guten Tag
- Chinese – Ni Hao
- Sanskrit – Namaste
- Arabic – Ahlan wa sahlan
- Italian – Ciao
Dress
When it comes to dressing in Saudi Arabia, it is essential to follow the traditional norms and customs. Men are expected to dress in thobe (a long garment) and gutra (a large cloth headdress). Women must dress conservatively, generally wearing a headscarf, long skirt, and loose-fitting clothing. Furthermore, it is essential to avoid wearing revealing clothing, as this could be offensive.
Let’s look at a few more dress-related customs and etiquette that are followed in Saudi Arabia:
Men
In Saudi Arabia, men are expected to wear a traditional thobe–an ankle-length, loose-fitting robe with long sleeves. The thobe is usually made of terry cloth or cotton, but more expensive varieties are made of silk and brocade. It is generally white, although other colors like gray and tan are also acceptable for formal occasions. In more conservative areas of the country (such as rural and mountain regions), men will cover their heads with a black or white cloth known as the gutra or shimagh.
For formal events, men will often add a bisht–a full-length garment featuring intricate embroidery made from either wool or cotton. A large belt (known as an Egal) will be used to hold together their robe for traditional occasions such as weddings or religious holidays; intricate embossing patterns may be added for decoration. Men may also opt to wear a “keffiyeh“–a square piece of fabric typically rolled up into a triangle that can be worn around the neck or on the head to protect it from sun exposure.
Women
For women, dressing appropriately is a must in Saudi Arabia. Most female visitors will need to be modestly dressed when out in public or in the presence of men who are not family members. Clothing should be loose-fitting, and the legs, arms, and chest should be covered entirely. Women should not wear shorts or skirts above the knee, sleeveless tops, or dresses that reveal too much cleavage. A scarf (headscarf) is required for all women to cover their heads outdoors; this also applies to female visitors from non-Islamic countries.
When in public, for religious reasons, it is appropriate for a man and woman who are not related to greeting each other with a handshake but without physical contact (non-touching). It is also advisable for them not to make prolonged eye contact with each other.
Eating Habits
When dining in Saudi Arabia, certain customs and etiquette should be observed to maintain respect and politeness — eating with your right hand and using your left hand if left-handed is the most polite. Further, it is essential to maintain a humble posture while eating, such as keeping your elbows close to your body and not talking with your mouth full. Finally, it is also necessary to accept the food given to you.
Food and Drink
Food and drink are essential to Saudi Arabian culture, with traditional dishes served during most social occasions, including weddings, religious holidays, and special family gatherings. In general, traditional Saudi cuisine is characterized by its spiciness and use of fresh vegetables. Commonly consumed items include:
- Falafel (ground chickpeas or fava beans fried in a patty)
- Shawarmas (grilled chicken slices in pita bread with tahini sauce)
- Hummus (a blended mixture of garbanzo beans and spices)
- Kabsa (rice dish with seasoned meat or seafood)
- Lamb Kebab Skewers
- Mutton Curry
- Stuffed Grape Leaves
- Various types of salads.
The national drink is called “karak,” made from black tea mixed with warm spices like cardamom, turmeric, ginger, and clove. People enjoy it on their own or as part of a large meal, often accompanied by dates or other small snacks.
Dining etiquette recommends that guests start eating when invited; everyone begins simultaneously. As for alcohol consumption among residents within the country itself – it is illegal to consume alcohol as it is prohibited by Islamic law in Saudi Arabia.
Table Manners
Eating habits in Saudi Arabia are traditional and related to the Islamic lifestyle. For example, hands must be washed before and after eating, utensils should not be used, and food is traditionally served on a single large platter to be shared by all the people at the table. However, when dining out, there are some nuances to be aware of:
- Meals in restaurants should begin with hands being washed.
- Keep your right hand free if possible; this is considered rude and impolite to forget this general rule.
- Do not pass food across the table directly–it has to go around at least once.
- After meals, it is considered rather impolite to leave anything behind in the dish. Eating it all or mostly all is more polite to avoid offending the host who provided it for you.
- Items may pass from one person’s plate only when asked; avoid attacking someone’s plate without asking them whether you can help yourself with what’s on their plate first – ask for permission or wait until it is offered directly.
- If multiple small dishes are served (for appetizers or desserts), sample a little bit of each item instead of going for one thing exclusively – again, remember that you should always ask permission first if taking from another plate.
Public Behavior
Respecting Saudi Arabian cultural customs and etiquette is essential when visiting the country. In public, people are expected to dress modestly, avoid loud conversations, and refrain from showing public displays of affection. When greeting people, it is customary to shake hands, although people of the opposite gender will usually only shake hands when they know each other well.
People are also expected to know and understand the laws governing public behavior in Saudi Arabia.
Respect for Elders
In Saudi Arabian culture, showing respect toward elders is essential. It is necessary for public places such as malls, parks, or markets. It is also integral to communication between family members and close relatives.
When addressing an elder, it is polite to use the title “A’yedh” (meaning sir) or “Sheikha” (meaning madam) before their name, when entering a room, wait to be invited before making oneself comfortable, and when leaving the room say goodbye showing respect by using “Ma salama” (goodbye).
It is also essential to show respect for any adult asking questions regardless of who they are. Furthermore, it is preferred that young people refrain from making noise or causing disruption when elders are present in small gatherings and significant events. Additionally, visitors should offer to shake hands with every adult in attendance when entering a home as a sign of admiration and respect for those present. Finally, children should be taught to address adults with titles such as “Uncle” or “Auntie” rather than their first names, even if they are well-known relatives.
Avoiding Physical Contact
Most public forms of physical contact (i.e., handshakes, hugs, kisses) are not considered appropriate in Saudi Arabia, particularly outside their immediate family. Women are expected to be wholly covered in abayas when out in public and to minimize physical contact with men who are not close relatives.
A woman must avoid eye contact with men when walking around. Women should also avoid speaking with unknown men or speaking loudly within earshot of them while outside and unaccompanied by other women or male companions.
Any physical contact between unrelated members of the opposite gender will be viewed as inappropriate and may result in social sanctions or other punishments. When traveling as a married couple, handholding is considered inappropriate outside your accommodations; merely walking side-by-side is sufficient.
Social Etiquette
Social Etiquette in Saudi Arabia is essential and should be respected by visitors. Therefore, knowing the correct customs and etiquette when visiting the country is vital to avoid any uncomfortable or embarrassing situations.
Social etiquette in Saudi Arabia typically revolves around respect for elders and showing kindness and hospitality to guests and strangers. Therefore, knowing the social etiquette in Saudi Arabia will be helpful for visitors.
Gift Giving
Gift-giving is a central feature of everyday life in Saudi Arabia, and there are many occasions when an offering is expected. However, it is essential to know that gift-giving practices vary with the culture and region. For example, social etiquette in Saudi Arabia means gifts should be given to someone other than the right hand. Instead, providing them openly in front of guests or family members is considered better.
The most common gifts offered according to social etiquette in Saudi Arabia include:
- Hampers for the Eid holidays (with dates, nuts, dried fruits, and pastries)
- Jewelry for females
- Perfumes for males
- Religious books depicting stories from the Islamic faith.
Money is also appropriate when presented by both men and women in a gesture of respect. Make sure your gift wrapping reflects modest standards (no exposed arms or legs) but simultaneously exudes luxury materials (silk fabrics or embossed paper).
Envelopes containing money should be white or off-white, as darker colors represent sadness or mourning. If you’re giving cash, make sure you know exactly who to give it to because family customs dictate that only those closest to you should receive it directly from your hands. When attending large parties such as weddings, guests often place money envelopes on tables so that everyone can make individual gifts without embarrassing anybody involved. Above all else, showing generosity will be appreciated by all Saudis, and they often take great pride in offering even more than what was asked for!
Visiting Homes
Being invited to someone’s home in Saudi Arabia is an honor. It is considered polite to bring a gift, like candy, flowers, or pastries, when visiting someone’s house for the first time. If the visit is intended for business rather than leisure, it is usual to bring a small token of appreciation with you. Traditional items such as incense and coffee are excellent choices for this occasion.
When entering someone’s home, it is essential to remove your shoes at the front door and follow all instructions given by your host or hostess. The traditional Muslim greeting (assalamo alaikom) should be used when entering and leaving the house while shaking hands is also standard. You may also be expected to offer extended greetings upon arriving and departing, wishing health, safety, and blessings upon each other using poetic verses from the Quran and other authors.
It is polite in Saudi Arabia culture to dress modestly when visiting homes due to religious customs, particularly if men also plan on attending. Additionally, women should not shake hands with men during a social visit; they may bow slightly while muttering salutations to recognize respect toward them, if necessary.
Religion
The official religion of Saudi Arabia is Sunni Islam, which is practiced by most of the population. However, the government is highly religious, and religious observance is vital throughout the country.
Religion significantly influences the laws and customs of Saudi Arabia, and religious norms regulate many aspects of everyday life. As a result, spiritual teachings are profoundly respected, and violations of religious laws can result in punishments ranging from fines to imprisonment.
Islamic Customs
Islam is the official religion of Saudi Arabia, and more than 90% of the population follows this faith. The Qur’an is the basis of Sharia Law and informs the country’s social norms, language, and culture. Therefore, respect for Islam is essential when visiting Saudi Arabia, as it is a very conservative society that strictly adheres to religious laws.
Visitors should wear modest clothing in public areas and exercise religious decorum when entering mosques or other places of worship. People should respect Islamic customs such as daily prayer times, refrain from consuming alcohol or pork, avoid public displays of affection, and respect local businesses when interacting with members of the opposite sex. Women are expected to cover their hair in places offering public prayer or psalms recitation unless granted permission otherwise by a Muslim authority figure.
Although 95% of Saudi citizens are Sunni Muslims who follow traditional Sunni teachings without much variance, there is also a tiny minority (5%) who are Shia Muslims. Visitors should care not to offend anyone’s beliefs while traveling through Saudi Arabia, as religious intolerance and sectarian conflict have arisen due to deep-seated divisions between these two groups. Out of respect for all denominations within Islam, visitors should avoid discussing religiously-sensitive topics or encouraging debate on such profound matters.
Holidays
Religions often have specific days or festivals (holidays) that are considered unique. In many cases, religious holidays have evolved out of traditions and customs of other belief systems, such as pagan seasonal festivities. Holidays are celebrated to reconnect with cultural heritage, religion, and spirituality.
Religious holidays’ exact meaning and celebration vary from one belief system to another. For example, Christianity often sees the Christmas holiday as a time for forgiveness, while Hindus view it as a day to give thanks and make offerings at the temple. Additionally, some faiths may celebrate holidays from multiple religions, such as Buddhism’s celebration of the American July 4th holiday or Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year).
Some of the most well-known religious holidays celebrated around the world include:
- Christianity: Christmas (Jesus Christ’s birth), Easter (Jesus Christ’s resurrection), Good Friday, Lent, Pentecost
- Judaism: Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Sukkot/Feast of Tabernacles
- Islam: Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice), Ramadan
- Hinduism: Diwali/Deepavali (Festival of Lights), Holi (Festival of Colors)
- Buddhism: Vesak/Buddha Day
- Sikhism: Vaisakhi