Just like American cultures, Arab customs are rooted deep in tradition. Many Arab values affect how Arabs communicate with each other and with non-Arabs. Today, we are going to look at some facts about the Arab culture that  foreigners should be well-aware of when visiting any Arab country or when dealing with Arabs.

• Arab Countries are religiously and ethnically diverse with Islam being the dominant religion in most countries.
• To be an Arab, like an American, is a cultural trait rather than racial.
• The Arab World includes Muslims, Christians, and Jews.
• Any person who adopts the Arabic Language is typically called an Arab.
• Arabic is the official and original language of the Qur’an; the Islamic holy book.
• Islamic practices are based on the lunar calendar and a new month begins at the sight of a new moon. The holy day of the Muslims is Friday and it is the main weekend.    
• Not all Arabs are Muslims and not all Muslims are Arabs; Muslims are everywhere.
• The Arab world represents a highly developed culture and civilization where modern cities mingle with ancient ones.
• There are various types of political systems in the Arab world.
• Arab dress for men ranges from the traditional flowing robes to blue jeans, T-shirts and western business suits.
• Arab dress for women ranges from traditional dress that covers the full body (Abayah or Jilbab and veil or hijab) to blue jeans, T-shirts and western business uniforms.
• Concerns of modesty are the main reason for the traditional dress. Women wear headscarves as a show of respect even if wearing western clothing.
• The most devoted women cover their faces as well as their bodies in veils and robes exactly like nuns and sisters.  
• Women are respected and protected in the Arab world and are directly related to men’s honour.
• A foreigner male is expected to respect the protected role of women in Arab societies.
• A foreigner should not expect women to socialize in the same public place unless with a family company.
• A foreigner male should not shake hands with an Arab woman unless she offers her hand first.
• A foreigner male should not stand close to, flirt, hit-on, touch, or hug with women.
• A foreigner male should not try to engage a woman in conversation unless he has been formally introduced to her.
• A foreigner male should not stare at women or maintain eye contact.
• A foreigner should not ask an Arab questions about his wife or other female members of his family unless you are close friends.
• Arabs honour and respect their families and they highly value friendships.
• To an Arab, the family is the centre of everything. Males are often the head of the family.
• To an Arab, honour will be protected and defended at all costs.
• To an Arab, shame (especially against family) is to be avoided at all costs. Insults and criticism are taken very seriously.
• To an Arab, religion is central to all things.
• To an Arab, age, wisdom and wealth are honoured.
• Most Arab governments are secular, but still emphasize religion.
• Arabs usually believe that all things in life are controlled by the will of God.
• Arabs value justice and equality among Muslims and non-Muslims. All actions by non-Arabs will be weighed and judged in comparison to tradition and religious standards.
• Many Arabs are suspicious of any western interest or intent in their land.
• The majority of Arabs have “hard feelings” against Israel.

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Adapted and modified from: “Arab Cultural Awareness : 58 Factsheets”.

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