Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. The traditional Muslim greeting is "A-salaam a-laykum" ("Peace be upon you"), to which the reply is "w-laykum o a-salaam"
("And upon you be peace"). handshakes, however, are the customary greeting among men.
2. Titles are preferable to first names, especially in the case of elders or superiors. The word "haji" can be used for a Muslim who has been on pilgrimage to Mecca. Always remove shoes before entering a house or mosque.
3. Normally, one should be prepared to remove one's shoes before entering a building or a home. When one removes one's shoes, the soles of the shoes are placed together, preventing the sole from being pointed at anyone. Also, among Muslims, one should never show the bottom of one's feet as it is considered offensive. Be sure not to walk on prayer mats, which will likely be present within homes.
4. Alcohol is permissible, except during the month of Ramadan when non-Muslims can only drink in certain hotels.
5. Be prepared for the separation between the genders and the rules concerning the appropriate behavior of each sex, especially in social situations. Men and women should not kiss, hug, hold hands or mingle in public. Even married couples should exercise reticence in their displays of affection. Women and men may also be separated at places such as movie theatres, restaurants and people's homes.
6. Syria is a predominantly Muslim culture and although it is not considered to be a fundamentalist Islamic country, clothing should be appropriate to this environment. Business wear is typically more conventional; suits are the norm for both men and women, although more casual attire may also be permissible. Western women should try to be more restrained in regard to makeup and jewelry. Both men and women should dress modestly. Tight, revealing clothing is simply not acceptable, while shorts, bikinis and short hems are objectionable. Necklines should be high and sleeves should come to the elbows. Hemlines should be well below the knee, if not ankle length. While the rules for men's attire is not as strict, men must keep their chest covered in public and should never wear shorts in public.
7. Visistors should avoid controversial subjects about religion, politics and terrorism, and sensitivity should be shown to the religious diversity of the country.
8. If one is invited into the home of a Syrian family, it is customary to take a gift to the host or hostess. Baked goods, chocolates, or a bag of sweets, are good choices. More elaborate offerings, such as a beautiful ornament, possibly from one's own country, would constitute an acceptable gift between business associates. A finely made compass, symbolizing the direction of Mecca to a devout Muslim, would constitute a thoughtful gesture on the part of the giver, and would most assuredly be treasured by the recipient.