SOME TRADITIONS
▪ The customary greeting is ‘As -salam alaikum ’ (peace be upon you). The reply is ‘ Wa alaikum as- salam ’ (and upon you be peace).
▪ Handshakes are the normal form of greeting. Do ensure to use only the right hand.
▪ As a host, it is traditional to start greeting guests from the right side to the left side of the room, unless there is an elderly guests, who should be greeted first. This is the same sequence in serving Emirati coffee after greeting the guests. ▪ For men, the traditional Emirati greeting is the khushmak, or touching of the noses. Women greet each other by shaking hands and giving a kiss on the cheek. Kissing the top of the head is also a common way of greeting among the Emiratis. Members of the opposite sex should not embrace unless they are closely related.
▪ Emirati are fond of coffee and dates as it is customary Arabic hospitality. Refusing coffee or snacks may be seen as offensive.
▪ It is polite to always stand when someone enters a room, other than to offer help. Emirati also take offense when one sits with the sole of their feet facing them and this is considered extremely rude.
▪ Dress More Internationally – dish dash wearing
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker