{ SAUDI ARABIA Important Information

 Personal Customs  Hands and Feet  Clothing  Religious Holidays  Food Customs  Other Important Notes Overview

 Shaking hands is required with males  Don’t shake hands with female unless prompted  When entering meeting, shake everyone’s hand  Greeting: “Salam alaykum” (Peace be upon you)  Response: Wa alaykum as-salam  Formal address: Male – Sayyed Female – Sayeeda  Don’t call to a person using your finger Personal Customs

 Only use right hand for eating and drinking  Left hand considered unclean  Do NOT show soles of feet  Means the other person is “dirt”  Best practice is to keep feet on ground (don’t cross) Hands and Feet

 Men:  No shorts  No sleeveless shirts  Suits are acceptable in the office  Women:  Elbow and knee must be covered  A head covering is recommended  Conservative dress is required Clothing

 The only important holiday is Ramadan and this runs from June 29 – July 28.  No eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours  No embracing during the same periods Religious Holidays

 If offered beverage, you must accept – it is offensive if you do not  Do not drink alcohol in public, Muslims do not drink alcohol  As mentioned before, only use right hand for eating, or use a fork. Food Customs

 Do NOT walk on prayer mat or in front of someone praying  Do NOT enter mosque without permission; this is offensive  Try not to put a Saudi Arabian man down, he will appreciate you for it. Other Important Notes

 Personal Customs  Hands and Feet  Clothing  Religious Holidays  Food Customs  Other Important Notes Overview