Cultural Etiquette & Customs in Saudi Arabia Guide

Saudi Arabia is a warm, hospitable country where good manners open every door. Whether you are moving here for work or visiting for the first time, understanding a few everyday customs helps you connect with people, avoid unintended offence, and feel at home faster. This guide from سعودي ليفنج walks you through the practical etiquette you will encounter in greetings, dress, dining, and daily life.

Greetings and Personal Space

The most common greeting is “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you), answered with “Wa alaykum as-salam”. A warm greeting sets the tone for any interaction.

• Men usually shake hands with other men, and women with other women; among close friends the handshake may be extended and friendly.
• Between different genders, let the Saudi person initiate contact. Many prefer a polite nod and a smile rather than a handshake in public — follow their lead.
• Always use your right hand to greet, give, or receive anything. The left hand is considered impolite in these situations.

Dressing Modestly

Modest dress is expected in all public places for both men and women. As a rule, keep shoulders and knees covered and choose loose rather than tight clothing.

• The abaya is no longer legally required for most women, including visitors, but it remains common and may be expected in conservative or religious areas such as parts of Makkah and Madinah.
• Headscarves are generally not required for non-Muslim women, except inside mosques or specific religious sites where local rules may ask for head covering.
• Shorts are fine for men in casual settings like malls and entertainment zones, but not at heritage sites, formal occasions, or conservative neighbourhoods.

Public Behaviour

Public conduct is generally respectful and low-key. Public displays of affection between couples, such as kissing or hugging, are socially unacceptable, as are profane language and rude gestures — and either can lead to intervention by authorities in public spaces. Keeping interactions courteous and reserved in public is the safest approach.

Visiting Homes and Mosques

Hospitality is central to Saudi culture, and visiting a home is a real honour.

• Remove your shoes when entering a mosque and many private homes.
• Avoid pointing the soles of your feet or shoes directly at people, as this is considered disrespectful.
• In traditional settings, meals may be served on the floor. Sit cross-legged or on one knee, keep your feet away from the dining cloth, and eat with your right hand.

Dining and Hospitality

Sharing food is a cornerstone of Saudi social life, and a few simple customs show respect.

• Elders and the most esteemed guest begin eating first, reflecting respect for seniority and hospitality.
• Arabic coffee and dates are the heart of any welcome. Guests are usually offered coffee and are expected to drink at least one or two small cups as a sign of appreciation.
• To signal you have had enough coffee, gently shake the small cup from side to side as you hand it back.

Tipping

Tipping in restaurants and for services is customary but not mandatory. When service is good, around 10–15% is common. If a service charge is already included in the bill, any extra tip is entirely at your discretion.

Ramadan Etiquette

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Out of respect, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours, even if you are not fasting. Pace slows during the day and comes alive after sunset, so plan errands and meals accordingly and enjoy the festive evening atmosphere.

None of these customs are meant to be intimidating. Saudis are famously welcoming and forgiving of honest mistakes, especially when they see you making an effort. A right-hand greeting, modest clothing, and a warm cup of Arabic coffee will carry you a long way.

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