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Cultural Etiquette
Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. While different cultural groups in Israel may have different styles of greetings, most Israelis who do business in foreign environments shake hands upon introduction. A traditional Arab or Orthodox Jewish male, however, may not necessarily introduce his wife. If such an occasion arises, one should follow his lead; if he does not introduce his wife, one should do likewise, despite whatever personal and social values one might hold. Because of the Orthodox prohibition against touching women, a foreign woman should not offer to shake hands with an Israeli. Rather, a woman should wait until the man offer to shake hands. In this regard, it is best not become offended by different cultural tendencies. Employing a tolerant, flexible and 'when in Rome..." attitude is advisable. That said, over 50 percent of Israeli Jews are considered "secular" and do not observe the traditional Jewish rituals. The majority of business people dealing on an international basis belong to this group and so one should expect them to shake hands.
2. Among the Arab culture, the traditional Arab greeting between men involves each grasping the other's right hand, placing the left hand on the other's right shoulder, and exchanging kisses on each cheek. Arabs used to dealing with foreigners, however, will probably confine themselves to shaking hands on a first meeting.
3. One should use formal titles and forms of address unless invited to do otherwise.
4. Remember that religious Israelis have strict dietary laws. Pork is prohibited to observing Jews and most foods should be "kosher"; strict Muslims do not consume either alcohol or pork, and their meats must be prepared in the "hallal" manner.
5. It is advisable that one become somewhat familiar with Jewish traditions, such as Passover, Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, etc., because even though almost half the Israeli Jews are "secular," these traditions remain keystones of Jewish society and culture.
6. Within the Israeli Arab community, it is important to be aware of Arab traditions and Muslim practices. For example, be prepared to remove your shoes before entering an Arab building; never expose the bottom of the foot; and avoid gesturing or eating with the left hand.
7. In the realm of body language, avoid pointing at anyone; keep both feet firmly planted on the ground when sitting; avoid sitting with the foot resting on the knee; and note that the "thumbs up" gesture is considered vulgar throughout the Middle East.
8. If one is invited to an Israeli home, bringing a gift of flowers or fine chocolates in good practice. Be sure a gift of food is kosher when visiting an Orthodox Jewish person, or "hallal" when visiting a Muslim. Other suggested gifts include a beautiful ornament or interesting souvenir.
9. At dinner, avoid eating everything on the plate. Leaving a little food is a sign that one has had a sufficient amount.
10. In conversation, travel, music, literature, culture and sports are all good subjects of conversation. Religious traditions may be an acceptable topic among a homogenous group of guests (i.e. among exclusively Muslim or exclusively Jewish participants), but one should be careful not to unconsciously move from issues such as religion or culture into the realm of politics. Few places in the world are more politically volatile than the Middle East, and speaking imprudently about the political issues, especially the Arab-Israeli conflict, is a good way to ruin business alliances and burgeoning friendships. Of course, it is safe to say that the subject of politics is hard to avoid in Israel. As such, visitors and foreigners should exercise sensitivity, restraint and diplomacy in such discussions.
11. Business attire is conservative; suits should be worn by men and women. Outside the business arena, a casual but fashionable and elegant style is the norm. Although many experts suggest that women are expected to wear modest clothing in public, in fact, the urban centers of Israel are home to a variety of women who follow Western styles of dress -- from the most conservative to more flamboyant options.
12. The urban centers of Israel are quite Westernized, so many North American and European customs and norms prevail, especially in the realm of popular culture.
Please Note:
As noted above, Israel is located in a region which is quite possibly the most politically volatile in the world today. New visitors unfamiliar with the Middle East are strenuously advised to learn as much as possible about the issues, politics, culture and religions of the region before traveling there. They should also exercise care and caution in all interactions when in Israel.
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