Local Knowledge: Manners

-Don't stare at local women and avoid looking them in the eye.

-Woman shouldn't look in the eye and smile at local men bacause that is like saying, "Hey Baby!"

-Shaking hands is a complicated business. Local women won't usually offer their hand and will nod and smile when greeting in stead.

-If you're entering someone's home, you may be asked to removed your shoes.

-Showing the soles of your feet is a rude gesture, so take care when crossing your legs so that the sole of your foot is not pointing towards anyone.


When Muslims greet each other, instead of saying, "good morning" or "hello" they say "Assalamo Alaikum," which means "May peace be upon you and may God's blessings be with you." This greeting makes a Muslim aware that he has to spread love and peace wherever he goes.

Etiquettes on meeting with Arab People (taken from the Dubai City homepage)

* Always shake hands. When they greet each other after a long absence it is customary for Arab to kiss symbolically on each cheek. An Arab may also keep hold of your hand while he is talking to you after shaking hands. This is a normal custom in Arabia and is a mark of friendship.

* The most common greetings are as follows: Good morning, Good Afternoon or general greeting at anytime, Good Evening, Hello, Welcome, How are you?

* Al-humdoolillah means that you are well (literally 'thanks be to God') and it is customary to always give this reply even if you are at death's door. ( In saying this the Muslim is acknowledging God's will )

* Forms of address are important. An Arab is called Saiyid (Mr) followed by the first of his given names, and when no familiar terms by the first of his given names only. A ruling Sheikh is 'Your Highness' initially and thereafter 'Sir'. Other Sheikhs are 'Your Excellency' as are Government Ministers. When calling an Arab it is polite to prefix his name with 'Ya'.

* The two main variations for 'Goodbye' are: Maa As-salaama, Fee Amaan illah. You may also hear Allah Yisullmak and Salaamak-allah used in reply.