Cultural etiquette guide

Saudi Arabia Etiquette: What's Polite & What's Rude

Quick verdicts on the gestures and customs travelers ask about most in Saudi Arabia. Tap any topic for the full explanation and a local tip.

Tipping Appreciated but not expected Thumbs up Generally positive but ambiguous Showing soles of feet Highly disrespectful gesture Eating with the left hand Avoid left hand for eating Patting someone's head Highly disrespectful gesture Direct eye contact Use sparingly with same gender Removing shoes indoors Respectful indoor custom Pointing with a finger Avoid pointing with finger Public displays of affection Avoid all public affection Arriving late Punctuality expected, but flexibility common Refusing offered food Refusing is disrespectful The OK hand sign Ambiguous, avoid in public Slurping noodles Avoid slurping noodles Cheek-kiss greeting Not for opposite gender Beckoning with a finger Highly disrespectful gesture Giving a gift Gift giving is polite

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