Saudi etiquette : Lessons in hospitality

Saudi Arabia has an ancient tradition of hospitality. Honouring guests and sharing food is at the very heart of the Kingdom’s culture. Here are the keys to understanding the value and significance of the gestures associated with meals.

1. When greeting someone, a handshake along with “As-salam-alaikum” (peace be upon you) goes a long way.

2. Most Saudi homes have a space called majlis dedicated to entertaining guests. Within the majlis, a Saudi host will serve their guests food, snacks and drinks. However, it is not customary for guests to be entertained in family living areas.

3. Accept drinks offered to you as a sign of friendship; it’s a meaningful tradition. Especially with Saudi coffee the first pour is two to three sips, and you can decline a refill by placing your hand above the finjan cup and politely nodding that you are done.

4. A cup of Saudi coffee and a date is a traditional way of welcoming guests. This may be followed by tea and a few sweets before the meal is served.

5. Traditional meals are eaten on mats on the floor usually with a few cushions. Sit with your legs crossed to show that you are comfortable. If there isn’t enough room, you can put one foot on the floor and the other leg under your thigh.

6. The host will wait for guests or an elder to start eating before they do. When dining with others, sample all dishes offered; this shows appreciation for your host’s generosity. Bringing a gift is a nice gesture, although it is not required.

7. Eat with three fingers, using only your right hand. Left-handed people can use their dominant hand. The general rule is that the hand used for “dirty” work should not be used for eating.

8. Take the food in front of you. Often the host will take the food and place it in front of the guests.

9. Do not be shy to say you are full. The host might insist on serving second or third servings as a show of generosity. You can politely decline while appreciating the meal and complimenting their graciousness.

10. Take heed of signs that the visit is over. Hosts will never ask you to leave, show discomfort or leave you unattended. They will also only have the food removed after you are done eating or leave the guest’s side while they are still enjoying their meal.

11. Social cues that the visit is ending include seeing other guests begin to leave, being served a final drink, and seeing the host start to clean and tidy up.

12. Until they have the honour of your visit again, and in the same way as they welcome you into their homes, your hosts will share a parting message of peace and farewell: “Ma’a Salama.”