Understanding Saudi Arabian culture dos and don’t for Indians

   'As-salamu alaikum', which means ‘peace be upon you.’

• Upon receiving the same Salaam from others, you must answer it back in this way.

 'Wa alaikum as-salam' means ‘and peace be upon you too.’

• To welcome them warmly, say "Marhaba."

• To be thankful, say "Shukraan."

• To express friendliness and concern, you may ask- Kaifa Haluka, i.e., "How are you?"

Use these small phrases and build strong relationships to navigate social situations with confidence.

Use of the right hand

Saudis as Muslims use their right hand for every kind of act. So you must use your right hand to eat, give, or receive something.

Common Cultural Mistakes Indians Must Avoid in Saudi Arabia

Some of the don’ts are

• Taking Pictures: Saudi Arabia culture does not allow you to take their photos, especially of children and women. You are prohibited from taking pictures of government buildings and military areas.

If it is required for you, seek their permission as a matter of respect.

• Sanctity of Ramadan: Ramadan is a month of fasting. And Saudis fast for the whole month. When you get a chance to spend your days in this holy month, respect the sanctity of this holy month. Don’t eat or drink in public places during fasting hours.

Consider this as an honor and enjoy the beautiful and busy nights.

• Language or Behavior: Language reflects your behavior. Talk politely and always maintain a calm demeanor.

• Display Public Affection: Saudis take care of their privacy. To hold hands, kiss publicly, or any other form of public display of affection, even if you're married, is prohibited in public places.

A Guide for Indian Travelers: Respecting Saudi Traditions

• You must take care of your clothes when you visit the sacred places in Makkah or some other sacred places in Madina.

• And when you move in a public place, consider the Saudi Arabia dress code, as a woman, you have to wear an abaya and a headscarf. And men can wear any loose-fitting thobe or kurta pajama.

• In Ramazan, don’t drink or eat in public, as it can distract fasting people.

• One of the best times to experience Saudi Arabia culture is the festival of 'Eid Ul Fitr.' If you become a guest of Arabs, don’t forget to take any gift in the form of chocolate or dates as a token of respect for them.

Tips to Navigate Social Etiquette in Saudi Arabia for Indians

• If you want to leave a good impression on the locals, wear modest dresses and start your conversation with the formal ‘Salaam.’

• As Saudis maintain physical distance between men & women, you should also take care of this and avoid public displays of affection.

• Be mindful of nonverbal cues. And avoid aggressive hand gestures, and don’t point your feet at others.

• It proves that you show respect towards the Islamic traditions & practices.

Saudi Memories: Bring Home the Spirit of Saudi Arabia

Make your trip to Saudi Arabia complete by getting a piece of its spirit home. You must explore local souks and shops, try traditional dishes, and immerse yourself in Saudi Arabia culture.

Yes, be sure and keep an eye out for the classic souvenirs for perfect gifts. High-quality dates, saffron, rich camel milk chocolate, and traditional Arabic attars and oud perfumes are some of the best things to buy in Saudi Arabia that will fill your home with the scents of Arabia.

Some of the authentic pieces of history are the Dallah the traditional Arabic coffee pot finely woven rugs, or a decorative Khanjar dagger, which are some of the best things to buy in Saudi Arabia. These aren't the objects; it will reflect its heritage.

FAQs

Daily, I wear kurta-pyjamas. Is there a need to buy a thobe in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, if your kurta-pyjama is modest and loose, then you can wear it. There's no need to buy a thobe.

What are the traditional Saudi souvenirs that I can buy?

These are the things that you can buy as souvenirs- high-quality dates, saffron, rich camel milk chocolate, traditional Arabic attars and oud perfumes, Dallah (traditional Arabic coffee pot), finely woven rugs, and decorative Khanjar daggers.

What is the Saudi Arabia dress code?

Saudi Arabia dress code For women, it is an abaya and a headscarf. And for men, it is any loose-fitting thobe or kurta pajama.