Knowledge is Power

Meeting people with different customs, cultures and traditions and learning from them are exciting and memorable one and that is power! Thanks to Wikipedia for the Images in this article. 

For some years of working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I could now walk straight on the open road with peace in mind and without fear. Now I could stand talking to some Saudis. They are friendly and hospitable people. And I learned that through appreciation and understandings with their cultures and abiding the laws regulated in the Kingdom are the most important things to consider.

Saudis are Generous People

Some of Saudis Customs

Saudis Receive Guests with Complete Attention

Things to Avoid

What to do if there is Unpleasant encounter with the Muttawa?

Knowledge is Power

I learned that Saudis are distinguished as good-groomed, loving, friendly and generous people. Saudi men wear their national clothes, a floor - length garment called thobe. Their heads are covered with a white or red and white-checkered scarf called ghutra, which they wear it indoors, and outdoors. In public the women wear black outer garment called abaya and a black veil over their heads and faces. They often wear black gloves as well.

In social conversations or even in the opening of business conversations, for Saudis there is always small talk in which an interest is shown in the health and well being of the other party. In conferring with Saudis, one should not show impatience or causeless rapidity. It is not practice by Saudis to introduce a visitor to their wives or daughters. But by way of politeness, a visitor can inquire about a female member of the family. For them it is chary and appropriate to ask about the family rather than the wife or daughter. When you invite a couple do not be surprised when only the man comes. And to sit or relaxing in a chair, with the legs so crossed, with the soles of the shoes, can offend to them.

To read the full article click Things that Count.

Saudis received guests with complete attention, and lavish hospitality of any circumstances. When in any kind of invitation is received, a prompt answer is expected from invited visitor in the language in which the invitation was extended. Saudi's coffee flavored with cardamom is first served in a small cup; three cups may be consumed, but it is impolite even if the bearer offers it to you and you will take a fourth. Then a sweetened tea is served in a small glass, and it is follows by unlimited quantities.

Saudis' dinner parties begin late in the evening. It is often around 9 and 10 PM. There are plenty of snacks to eat. Dinner is served as a climax to the evening's merriment. Any thing: foods, gifts or drinks to be received from a Saudi host, it should be taken with the right hand.

Expatriates in order to avoid counteract with the Muttawa or religious police, for immigrant women should wear an abaya. It should be used properly; otherwise it can offend many Saudis. Immigrant women if not wearing an abaya, they should wear garments, that are loose fitting, with hemmed in below mid-calf or ankle length, sleeves elbow length and necklines modest.

For men, they should wear long trousers and skirts that are not open below the collarbone in public. Religious police enforce ban on men wearing neck jewelry, when visiting the souqs (markets, malls and other public areas). It is inapt for men and women to touch publicly other than a brief handshake or to give assistance to a person crossing a street.

If in any unpleasant encounter with the Muttawa or with the police and for any reason should be sent to jail immediately contact your consulate or embassy or if you are working in a company, immediately contact the office of your company for help. The affairs of the Kingdom and its citizens are regulated in accordance with the Islamic law.

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