Visiting the Middle East is a fascinating experience, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. However, social customs, etiquette, and laws can be quite different from what tourists are used to in Western countries. Many visitors unintentionally break unspoken rules, leading to awkward situations—or even legal trouble.
If you want to show respect, avoid common mistakes, and have a smoother travel experience, here are the unspoken rules of visiting a Middle Eastern country that every tourist should know.
The Middle East is welcoming and rich in culture, but respect for traditions and social norms is key to a great experience. By following these unspoken rules, you’ll be seen as a courteous and mindful traveler.
By embracing local customs and traditions, you’ll have a richer and more rewarding travel experience.
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Golden Rules for Visiting a Middle Eastern Country
Dress modestly, especially in conservative areas.
Avoid PDA and public drinking.
Use your right hand for eating and greetings.
Respect Ramadan fasting rules.
Ask before taking photos of people.
Be polite and accept hospitality when offered.
Unspoken Rules of Visiting a Middle Eastern Country
1. Dress Modestly, Even if It’s Hot
Why It’s Important:
Many Middle Eastern countries have conservative dress codes, especially for women.
Exposing too much skin can be seen as disrespectful or even offensive in certain areas.
Some countries legally require modest clothing in public spaces.
What to Do Instead:
Women: Wear loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf for visiting mosques.
Men: Avoid tank tops and shorts in formal areas. Long pants and shirts are better in cities.
Avoid:
Wearing revealing outfits—even if it’s hot.
Assuming Western-style beachwear is acceptable everywhere.
2. Public Displays of Affection Are a No-Go
Why It’s Important:
Holding hands, hugging, and kissing in public can be seen as inappropriate.
In some countries, PDA is legally restricted, and violations can lead to fines or arrest.
What to Do Instead:
Keep interactions discreet and respectful in public.
Check local laws—some countries allow holding hands for married couples.
Avoid:
Kissing or hugging in public—even between married couples.
Engaging in any romantic gestures in conservative areas.
3. Always Use Your Right Hand for Eating and Greeting
Why It’s Important:
In Islamic tradition, the left hand is considered unclean.
The right hand is used for eating, shaking hands, and giving/receiving items.
What to Do Instead:
Eat with your right hand, especially when using your hands for food.
Shake hands or pass items using your right hand.
Avoid:
Using your left hand for greetings or giving money.
Eating with your left hand in traditional dining settings.
4. Learn Basic Arabic Greetings
Why It’s Important:
Arabic-speaking locals appreciate when visitors make an effort with their language.
Even small phrases show respect and openness to the culture.
What to Do Instead:
Learn these basic Arabic greetings:
Salam Alaikum (Peace be upon you) – Common greeting
Shukran (Thank you)
Min Fadlak/Fadlik (Please – male/female)
Afwan (You’re welcome)
Avoid:
Speaking only in English without greeting first.
Assuming everyone understands English—many do, but not all.
5. Avoid Discussing Politics and Religion
Why It’s Important:
Political and religious topics can be sensitive and controversial.
Criticizing local governments, leaders, or Islam can lead to legal issues.
What to Do Instead:
If politics or religion come up, listen respectfully and avoid debating.
Focus on cultural discussions rather than controversial issues.
Avoid:
Criticizing the royal family, government, or laws—this is illegal in some countries.
Bringing up conflicts or political tensions in casual conversations.
6. Don’t Assume Alcohol Is Available Everywhere
Why It’s Important:
Some Middle Eastern countries ban alcohol completely, while others only serve it in hotels and licensed venues.
Drinking in public is often illegal and can result in fines or arrest.
What to Do Instead:
Check local laws—in places like the UAE, alcohol is available in licensed areas.
If drinking is allowed, do so discreetly in designated venues.
Avoid:
Bringing alcohol into a country where it’s illegal (like Saudi Arabia or Kuwait).
Drinking in public spaces, even in alcohol-friendly cities.
7. Be Mindful of Ramadan Rules
Why It’s Important:
During Ramadan (the Islamic holy month), Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.
Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours can be offensive—and even illegal in some countries.
What to Do Instead:
If visiting during Ramadan, eat and drink indoors or in designated areas.
Be extra respectful of local customs and avoid playing loud music.
Avoid:
Eating or drinking in public before sunset during Ramadan.
Smoking in public—it’s also part of the fasting restrictions.
8. Always Ask Before Taking Photos of People
Why It’s Important:
Taking pictures of locals without permission is seen as intrusive or disrespectful.
In some countries, photographing government buildings or military sites is illegal.
What to Do Instead:
Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially women.
Check local rules before photographing religious sites or government buildings.
Avoid:
Taking pictures of strangers, police, or military personnel.
Snapping photos in mosques or religious spaces without permission.
9. Respect Prayer Times
Why It’s Important:
Muslims pray five times a day, and during prayer times, businesses may pause.
Loud noises or disruptions during prayer can be seen as disrespectful.
What to Do Instead:
Be aware of prayer times, especially in smaller towns.
If you hear the call to prayer (Adhan), be respectful and lower your voice.
Avoid:
Entering a mosque during prayer if you’re not Muslim, unless it’s open to visitors.
Talking loudly near a mosque during prayer times.
10. Understand the Importance of Hospitality
Why It’s Important:
Middle Eastern culture values generosity and hospitality—refusing a kind gesture can be seen as rude.
If offered tea, coffee, or food, it’s polite to accept, even if just a small amount.
What to Do Instead:
If offered Arabic coffee or tea, take at least one small sip.
Show gratitude and appreciation for any hospitality extended to you.
Avoid:
Rejecting food or drink outright—if you don’t want more, politely say, “Shukran, ana shabaan” (Thank you, I’m full).
Leaving immediately after eating—stay and chat for a while.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.