Understanding Saudi Arabian culture dos and don’t for Indians
Before you visit any foreign place, understand its traditions and customs first. You are here on this page; it shows that you have a strong intention to visit Saudi Arabia. And you are curious to know the Saudi Arabia culture.
Here in this blog, I will help you navigate the nuances of Saudi Arabia culture. It offers you a unique cultural landscape.
Let's see together some basic dos and don'ts for a smooth and memorable journey.
Key Saudi Arabian Cultural Norms Every Indian Should Know
As Saudi Arabia is a country where Islam has its origin, you will find its culture familiar with the customs of Muslims. And it is very important to be aware of the customs and traditions to communicate and behave well in every social norm.
And Indians should be well aware of this, that
Greeting Saudis in their language is one among the basic cultural norms. After greeting, Saudis meet each other by shaking their hands and hugging each other.
To interact with the Arabs, learn some basic Arabic phrases.
You have to take care of your table manners when you dine with the Arabs.
Like the Indian tradition of eating, you have to use your hands and fingers for eating. Wait for your host to begin eating first. Try to eat everything that is served to you. At the end, express gratitude and say ‘thank you’ in Arabic as ‘shukran.’
Important Dos for Indians Visiting Saudi Arabia
Dress modestly
Saudi Arabia dress code for men is a long robe called a thobe, which is worn in white, paired with a ghutra (headscarf) and igal (a black cord circlet). You will find the thobe to be a comfortable and practical garment suitable for the desert climate.
And for women there is a long black cloak an abaya.
Learn some basic Arabic
Learn small phrases of Arabic. It will help you to start a conversation with any Arab.
For greeting someone, you have to say ‘salaam.’
'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.
