10 Things to Consider Before Traveling to the Arab World
By: Ani Karapetyan/ Arab America Contributing Writer
Arab countries are a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Therefore, it is not surprising to see the color and beauty of Arab countries create a magical atmosphere which is unique to the region. However, in the Arab countries, there are laws and social rules which are specific to the culture. Before you travel to these countries, you need to get acquainted with the social rules, so as not to provoke the anger and confusion of local residents, and risk being fined, or even detained.
Of course the Arab world is diverse, and going to Lebanon may vary from going to Saudi Arabia, but still, most rules apply throughout the Arab world.
Here is what you should know before traveling there:
1. Do not take or ask for any variation of pork.
If you go on a visit or a business trip to an Arab country, be careful–so that you do not have an ounce of pork with you, especially to Yemen. The smallest amount, even a sandwich with a piece of bacon entails a severe punishment.
2. You can not export local currency and corals from Egypt.
Exporting certain items from Egypt is forbidden, such items as the ones that represent historical value, local currency, and corals. When leaving the country, the local currency can be exchanged at the exchange office of the hotel, in banks, and even at the airport. For the export of corals from the country, you will receive a fine up to $1000, and perhaps even a detention in the local police station.
3.Want to photograph the local residents in Bahrain? Be sure to ask them.
As in most Arab countries, especially in Bahrain, you need to ask the locals before they are photographed. Also in this country, it is forbidden to photograph government buildings, palaces, oil and gas enterprises, and military facilities. Finally, it is not customary in Bahrain to stand, or while walking, look at the face of the person who is eating.
4. In Arab countries, forget about nudism.
In Arab countries, you can not swim and sunbathe topless on the beaches. This is strictly prohibited. Outside tourist zones, you can swim only by observing the dress code. For example, in some Gulf countries, men are expected in swimming trunks, and women in specially closed dresses called Burkins. There is also a special women’s day on the beaches. On this day, men are denied access to the beach.
5. Avoid eye contact and compliments between the opposite sexes.
Eye contact between a man and a woman who are strangers in the streets or any public places, or during home visits might be perceived as a loose woman who is open for an intimate relationship. Thus, do not make an eye contact with individuals in certain Arab regions. In addition, visiting men should avoid by all means complementing the host’s wife or any females. Abiding by this social rule may eliminate any misunderstanding of good intentions.
6. Physical interaction between opposite sexes is not acceptable.
Avoid handshaking between the opposite sex or any physical interaction, including hugging, cuddling, and excessive talking and joking.
7. Avoid wearing open and tight clothes.
Whenever you travel, you need to show respect to the local culture. One way to show your respect is to dress with modesty. In general, visitors need to dress conservatively. However, this does not mean you have to wear a hijab. Basically, avoid wearing low-riding jeans, sleeveless tops, shorts, crop tops, and tight dresses.
8. Never say no to a cup of coffee or tea.
If you refuse an invitation to drink a cup of coffee or tea in the Arab World, it would be considered as a sign of disrespect, and to some extent, insulting. Offering coffee or tea is a sign of hospitality and is expected to be valued.
9. You can always negotiate the prices.
Haggling is very common in the Arab World. In general, the prices in the stores are set high because the sellers know that the customers will not pay the price, but rather will engage in negotiating to lower the price. Haggling is a sort of art which builds social relationships between the buyer and seller.
10. Make sure you know 10 commonly used Arabic words.
The following phrases will not only add an extra flavor to your trip but could make a big difference in earning trust and building great relationships.
Although Arabic is the main language, some of these cultural phrases may vary across the 22 Arab countries:
Assalaam alaikum (May peace be upon you), yalla (lets go), shukran (thanks), inshallah (God willing), ma salameh (with you peace), marhaba (hello), mumtaz (excellent) , fursa sa-eedeh (was nice to meet you), masbout? (right?), ma-lesh (don’t worry).
In conclusion, Arab countries are very welcoming to tourists and foreigners in general. Local citizens show extra respect, honor, and hospitality to foreign visitors. As for travelers, they need to show respect to the local culture, customs, and religions.
