Shaking Hands in Saudi Arabia:
Gender, Culture, and Religious Context
For many international professionals traveling to Saudi Arabia, especially women, one of the most frequently asked questions is:
“Is it appropriate to shake hands with someone of the opposite gender in Saudi Arabia?”
The answer is not straightforward. In Saudi Arabia, a handshake is more than a gesture—it is a culturally and religiously sensitive act. While it is a standard form of greeting in many parts of the world, in Saudi Arabia it must be navigated with care, especially across genders. The following lines will explore the cultural etiquette, business expectations, and religious interpretations surrounding this practice.
The Cultural Rule: Who Leads the Greeting?
In professional contexts in Saudi Arabia, the general guideline is:
A man should not offer his hand to a woman. However, if a woman offers her hand first, he may respond.
This norm is rooted in cultural sensitivity and religious tradition. It allows women, especially in international settings, to take the lead in determining whether physical contact is appropriate in a greeting.
For international businesswomen:
You may choose to offer your hand, depending on the context.
If the handshake is declined, it is not a sign of disrespect, but rather adherence to personal or religious boundaries.
For men:
The respectful approach is to wait and observe. If the woman offers her hand, a handshake is acceptable. If not, a polite nod or placing the hand over the heart is a widely appreciated alternative.
Social and Business Practice: A Matter of Setting and Signals
In urban centers such as Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, business etiquette has become increasingly international. Within many companies, ministries, and diplomatic spaces, cross-gender handshakes may occur, particularly with international professionals. However, in more conservative environments or rural areas, such contact may still be avoided entirely.
Observing subtle signals is essential. Body language, eye contact, and the presence of high-level or religiously observant individuals should all be considered before initiating a handshake.
Key alternatives include:
A slight nod of the head,
Placing the right hand over the heart, or
Simply offering a verbal greeting such as “As-salamu alaykum.”
These gestures are widely recognized as polite and respectful, without crossing any physical boundaries.
Religious Perspectives: A Spectrum of Interpretations
From an Islamic perspective, the question of shaking hands between men and women has long been debated. While there is no explicit prohibition in the Qur’an, several hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) address the issue.
Prophetic Tradition: Avoidance and Exceptions
Some hadith report that the Prophet did not shake hands with women who were not his relatives (non-mahram). One narration quotes him as saying:
“I do not shake hands with women.” (Narrated in several collections)
These narrations have led many scholars to adopt a position of general avoidance.
However, other accounts suggest that in certain social contexts or under necessity, the Prophet or his companions may have accepted pledges or interactions from women in ways that included hand contact. These reports are not universally agreed upon in terms of authenticity or interpretation.
Scholarly Opinion: Between Prohibition and Contextual Permission
Islamic jurists have taken various positions:
Classical View (Majority): Prohibits physical contact between men and women who are not mahram, unless through a barrier (e.g., cloth, glove) and without lustful intent.
Contextual View (Contemporary): Permits handshakes when they are part of social custom and clearly non-sexual in nature—especially in societies where refusing a handshake may cause offense or misunderstanding.
Modern scholars and councils emphasize the principle of ʿurf (local custom) and the ethical purpose of interaction. If shaking hands is customary, respectful, and necessary in a given context, it is not seen as a sinful act.
Ethical Considerations and Cultural Sensitivity
For Muslims and non-Muslims alike, understanding the significance of a handshake in Saudi Arabia is a matter of cultural competence.
Refusing a handshake is not meant to be impolite—it may reflect religious commitment.
Accepting a handshake should not be misinterpreted as abandoning religious values—it may be a response to avoid social awkwardness or embarrassment.
A respectful alternative to the handshake should always be available, such as placing the hand over the heart.
In professional environments, mutual respect and intention carry more weight than the physical act itself.
Conclusion: Cultural Intelligence and Relationship Building
In Saudi Arabia, building trust and showing respect means understanding the cultural and religious framework in which people live and work. A handshake between men and women is not a simple gesture—it is a symbolic act shaped by values, tradition, and context.
For international professionals:
Let the cultural setting guide your actions.
Observe and respond to the cues of others.
Focus on intent and respect rather than rigid rules.
Ultimately, cultural intelligence is not about following a checklist—it’s about adapting with awareness, humility, and empathy.
Embracing Uncertainty as a Strength
Cultural encounters are full of subtle moments that don’t always come with clear rules. Rather than searching for one-size-fits-all answers, it is far more effective to embrace ambiguity as part of the learning journey. Minor missteps—like a missed handshake—rarely damage professional relationships. When small details are overly scrutinized, it often reflects deeper emotional, social, or ideological expectations.
The key is not to avoid uncertainty, but to move through it with self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and cultural empathy.
Intercultural growth begins when we recognize that adaptation is not about perfection, but about intention and respect. By practicing in safe settings and reflecting on real-life interactions, individuals can build the confidence to navigate even the most sensitive moments.
Ultimately, trust is built not through flawless execution, but through consistent efforts to understand and connect across cultures.
Cultural dynamics are rarely black and white — they’re shaped by context, relationships, and lived experience. If you’d like to explore how these themes might affect your work, your team, or your leadership strategy, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to listen — no obligation, no mailing lists. Just send an email or use our contact form. We also encouarge you
