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Cultural Etiquette
Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. The handshake is an acceptable form of greeting, however, men and women who are not related may choose not to shake hands with each other.
2. Stick to formal forms of address, complete with titles, unless invited to do otherwise.
3. The visitor should respect the five times of daily prayer.
4. One should always remove his or her shoes before entering houses or mosques.
5. Never expose the bottom of the foot to anyone.
6. The left hand is taboo. Never take anything, give anything, drink or eat with the left hand.
7. No flirting and no public affection, even between married couples.
8. Women and men may be separated during meals and public places such as movie theatres.
9. Alcohol and pork products (even footballs) are forbidden to Muslims.
10. Possession of pornographic material and drug possession is illegal and getting caught may have serious consequences.
11. Dress should always be modest. Women should take special care not to wear revealing clothing so as to avoid harassment and hostility from the predominantly Muslim population.
12. Bargaining in the market place is the traditional way of business. Visitors should attempt to bargain. In fact, merchants may become offended if visitors do not attempt to bargain and may refuse the sale of their product.
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