The Middle East, living in Saudi Arabia, offers a unique opportunity to experience one of the most culturally rich and traditional societies. For migrants, understanding and respecting local customs and respecting them is important for building successful relationships and navigating daily life. Here is a comprehensive guide that is a comprehensive guide to adapt to social norms and to help avoid cultural misconceptions.
1. dress code
to do:
- Publicly marginal dress. Women are usually expected to wear an abaya and cover their heads, especially in orthodox areas.
- Embrace a local dress like a thob or hijab during cultural or formal programs to show respect.
No:
- Wear tight, sleeveless, or publicly reveal the fabric.
- Suppose the rules comfortably apply everywhere (orthodox areas often expect strict dress)
2. social etiquette And greeting
to do:
- Best wishes to others with “As-Salamu Alacum” and answer with “W Alacum as-Salam”.
- Six hands with men and always use the right hand to greet and give greetings, food and items.
No:
- Start physical contact with the opposite sex until they start it.
- Leave a small thing: Sads spent in exchange of Saudi value time.
3. dining etiquette
to do:
- Accept invitations in homes and bring a small gift in the form of tokens of praise.
- Use the right hand while eating and be prepared for extended food with conversation.
No:
- Show the soles of your feet while sitting.
- Refuse of food or drinking many times can cause a very strong decline.
4. Religion and public conduct
to do:
- When shops and services are temporarily closed, be conscious of five daily prayer time.
- Respect Ramadan, Eid and other religious observation.
No:
- Eat or drink publicly during daylight in Ramadan.
- Affection is engaged in public demonstrations, which are strictly discouraged.
5. Photography etiquette
to do:
- Always ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals, especially women.
- Focus on landscapes, sites and public places where photography is allowed.
No:
- Picture of local people or private property without consent.
- Particularly ignore the signage indicating photography sanctions near the government or religious places.
6. Work and business etiquette
to do:
- Professional interactions have time ban and formal.
- Many layers of approval may be required to honor the hierarchy as decision making.
No:
- Run into business talks; Saudi likes to create confidence and synergy first.
- Consider informality, relationships often begin with structured and respectable communication.
7. Gender roles and public places
to do:
- Follow gender isolation rules in public places such as restaurants or waiting areas.
- Honor the current norms about women’s dress and access to public places.
No:
- Expect Western-style gender criteria-Ling roles are traditionally defined.
- Use incorrect entrances where separate access is designated for men and women.
8. Language and communication
to do:
- Learn basic Arabic phrases to reduce daily conversation and show goodwill.
- Speak politely and use a formal tone, especially in professional settings.
No:
- Use a loud speech or exaggerated gestures: Saudi prefers calm and respectable dialogues.
- Criticize directly: Offer the response in a thoughtful and indirect manner.