\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 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\u00a0 foreigners should be well-aware of when visiting any Arab country or when dealing with Arabs.<\/p>\n
\n
\n
Arab Countries are religiously and ethnically diverse with Islam being the dominant religion in most countries.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n
To be an Arab, like an American, is a cultural trait rather than racial.<\/li>\n
The Arab World includes Muslims, Christians, and Jews.<\/li>\n
Any person who adopts the Arabic Language is typically called an Arab.<\/li>\n
Arabic is the official and original language of the Qur’an; the Islamic holy book.<\/li>\n
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.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n
Not all Arabs are Muslims and not all Muslims are Arabs; Muslims are everywhere.<\/li>\n
The Arab world represents a highly developed culture and civilization where modern cities mingle with ancient ones.<\/li>\n
There are various types of political systems in the Arab world.<\/li>\n
Arab dress for men ranges from the traditional flowing robes to blue jeans, T-shirts and western business suits.<\/li>\n
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.<\/li>\n
Concerns of modesty are the main reason for the traditional dress. Women wear headscarves as a show of respect even if wearing western clothing.<\/li>\n
The most devoted women cover their faces as well as their bodies in veils and robes exactly like nuns and sisters. \u00a0<\/li>\n
Women are respected and protected in the Arab world and are directly related to men’s honour.<\/li>\n
A foreigner male is expected to respect the protected role of women in Arab societies.<\/li>\n
A foreigner should not expect women to socialize in the same public place unless with a family company.<\/li>\n
A foreigner male should not shake hands with an Arab woman unless she offers her hand first.<\/li>\n
A foreigner male should not stand close to, flirt, hit-on, touch, or hug with women.<\/li>\n
A foreigner male should not try to engage a woman in conversation unless he has been formally introduced to her.<\/li>\n
A foreigner male should not stare at women or maintain eye contact.<\/li>\n
A foreigner should not ask an Arab questions about his wife or other female members of his family unless you are close friends.<\/li>\n
Arabs honour and respect their families and they highly value friendships.<\/li>\n
To an Arab, the family is the centre of everything. Males are often the head of the family.<\/li>\n
To an Arab, honour will be protected and defended at all costs.<\/li>\n
To an Arab, shame (especially against family) is to be avoided at all costs. Insults and criticism are taken very seriously.<\/li>\n
To an Arab, religion is central to all things.<\/li>\n
To an Arab, age, wisdom and wealth are honoured.<\/li>\n
Most Arab governments are secular, but still emphasize religion.<\/li>\n
Arabs usually believe that all things in life are controlled by the will of God.<\/li>\n
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.<\/li>\n
Many Arabs are suspicious of any western interest or intent in their land.<\/li>\n
The majority of Arabs have “hard feelings” against Israel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
**********<\/p>\n
Adapted and modified from: “Arab Cultural Awareness : 58 Factsheets”. <\/em><\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 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\u00a0 foreigners should be well-aware of when visiting any Arab country or when dealing with Arabs. Arab…<\/p>\n