Social Etiquette and Cultural Norms in
Saudi Arabia
Greetings and Introductions in Saudi Arabia: A Gateway to Building Relationships
In Saudi Arabia, greetings and introductions carry profound social significance and set the tone for any interaction. They are not merely transactional exchanges but rituals that reflect respect, warmth, and the cultivation of relationships.
Verbal Greetings: A Reflection of Respect and Tradition
One of the most common and universally understood greetings in Saudi Arabia is “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you), to which the response is “Wa alaykum as-salam” (And peace be upon you too). This greeting is deeply intertwined with the Islamic faith and is more than just a polite exchange—it reflects core Islamic principles of peace, respect, and compassion. In fact, the greeting is encouraged in the Qur’an and Hadith, where Muslims are advised to wish peace upon one another as a means of fostering brotherhood and goodwill. The word “salam” (peace) shares the same root as the word Islam, emphasizing the religion’s foundation on peace and submission to the will of God.
By beginning an interaction with this phrase, one not only extends a greeting but also invokes a spiritual blessing. The use of “As-salamu alaykum” transcends social status and connects individuals on a deeper, religious level. It underscores the idea that, regardless of one’s background or rank, peace is a universal value, and mutual respect is an obligation upon every believer.
While “As-salamu alaykum” is primarily rooted in Islamic tradition, it is commonly used in daily interactions regardless of the religious identity of the individuals involved, as it is seen as a respectful acknowledgment of local culture. Using this greeting can demonstrate cultural awareness and appreciation for the Islamic values that permeate Saudi society. By the way, don’t worry if you can’t pronounce it perfectly—showing goodwill and an effort to familiarize yourself with cultural customs is far more important than being perfect. Your Saudi counterpart will likely appreciate your effort, as at the end of the day, we are all human.
Alongside this religious greeting, more secular expressions such as “Ahlan wa sahlan” (Welcome) or “Marhaba” (Hello) are also widely used, particularly in casual or non-religious settings. These greetings often accompany inquiries into the well-being of the other person, such as “Kayfa halak?” (How are you?), with responses like “Alhamdulillah” (Praise be to God), further reflecting the central role of faith in everyday life.
Physical Gestures: The Role of Touch in Greetings
In Saudi culture, physical greetings, particularly between men, are just as important as verbal ones. A handshake, often soft and lingering, is the most typical form of greeting between men. Unlike in Western cultures, where a firm handshake might be prized, in Saudi Arabia, a gentle handshake conveys respect and warmth. It’s common for the handshake to be accompanied by placing the left hand over the right, indicating sincerity and cordiality.
Among men who are more familiar or share a close bond, greetings can extend beyond a handshake. Kissing on the cheek is customary, especially among relatives or longtime friends. This varies depending on the region within Saudi Arabia, with some areas following the traditional three-kiss pattern (alternating cheeks) while others may only kiss once or twice. It’s important to note that cheek kissing is reserved for close, same-gender relations, and such gestures are not extended across genders.
When greeting women, especially in a formal or professional setting, physical contact is generally avoided unless initiated by the woman. In many cases, men will simply nod or place a hand over their heart as a gesture of respect. Women, too, may exchange greetings by placing their hands over their hearts instead of shaking hands. This avoidance of touch reflects cultural sensitivities and the importance of modesty in social interactions between genders.
La bise, the act of kissing on the cheek between men and women, which is common in countries like France, Italy, and others, is one of the biggest taboos in Saudi Arabia. Public displays of affection, especially between men and women, are strictly avoided, even if individuals may have engaged in such practices abroad.
in Saudi Arabia, a gentle handshake conveys respect and warmth. It’s common for the handshake to be accompanied by placing the left hand over the right, indicating sincerity and cordiality.
The Importance of Titles and Formality
In Saudi Arabia, addressing someone with the proper title is a sign of respect, particularly during initial introductions. It is customary to use professional titles (such as Doctor, or Engineer) or honorifics like Sayyid (Mr.) or Sayyida (Mrs./Ms.), followed by the person’s first name. For instance, if the business card or LinkedIn profile of your contact person indicates the name Muhammed Al-Lehiani, you would address him as Mr. Muhammed or simply Muhammed, depending on the level of formality and familiarity. However, the appropriate way to address someone can vary depending on the context, the relationship between the individuals, and the hierarchy involved in the interaction. In more formal or professional settings, particularly when dealing with someone of higher status or seniority, it is always best to use titles such as Mr., Dr., or Engineer, followed by their first name, to show respect. Conversely, in more casual environments or once a relationship has been established, using just the first name can be acceptable and seen as a sign of rapport.
The use of Abu (father of) or Umm (mother of) followed by the eldest son’s name is another respectful way of addressing adults, especially those with children. These kunyas (honorific names) reflect the importance of family and lineage in Arab culture, symbolizing the person’s status within their family unit. It’s crucial to pay attention to these nuances, as failing to address someone properly can unintentionally convey a lack of respect.
If you are meeting with members of the royal family or other dignitaries in Saudi Arabia, it is essential to address them with the appropriate honorifics. For members of the royal family, you should use “Your Highness” as a sign of respect, and in the case of those who are descendants of a former king, the correct form of address would be “Your Royal Highness.” Ministers and other high-ranking officials, whether in government or business, are typically addressed as “Your Excellency.” This formality applies universally, regardless of gender, meaning you should always use “Your Excellency” when interacting with high-ranking officials, whether male or female.
The use of the title “Sheikh” in Saudi Arabia is more complex and nuanced. While in some contexts it is used informally to show respect, its traditional use is reserved for individuals who hold positions of influence, are respected leaders, or belong to prominent families. It is important to ensure that your contact person is officially entitled to the designation before addressing them as Sheikh. Though the title can sometimes be used more loosely, it is critical to be mindful of its proper use to avoid missteps in formal or business settings. Paying attention to these details demonstrates not only respect for cultural customs but also a deeper understanding of the Saudi hierarchical structure.
The biggest mistake you can make is failing to observe these distinctions in a press release, social media post, or official statement on your website. These errors can undermine your credibility and signal a lack of cultural awareness. And remember, the internet never forgets—even if your Saudi partner overlooks such a mistake, it may linger online, potentially impacting your reputation and future interactions. Being meticulous with titles and honorifics not only shows respect but also protects the integrity of your professional relationships.
Pace and Patience: Building Relationships Through Greetings
It’s important to remember that Saudi greetings are often unhurried. Rushing through an introduction or appearing impatient can be seen as a sign of disrespect. Saudis typically take their time to ask about the well-being of others, particularly the health of family members. Showing genuine interest in these matters is a sign of care and respect and helps establish the foundations of a positive relationship. Business meetings may begin with several minutes of small talk, and it is essential to engage fully in these exchanges rather than rushing toward the business at hand.
