As with any country you want to visit, it is always a good idea to do research on the etiquette. In doing that research, you will naturally be more comfortable, knowing what to expect and understanding what you should do. Before we traveled to the Middle East, we did as much research as we could, but you can’t foresee everything with traveling and we ended up with some extra knowledge of our own. Below is what we have learned from traveling to the Middle East, in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey.
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Clothing
For both women and men, you will want to keep it modest. This will keep any unwanted attention from coming your way and will also show that you respect their culture. Linen does a very good job of keeping you cool, even though you are almost completely covered, you will feel fine! For women, you are not expected to wear a head covering in most public places, but when visiting a Mosque, you will most definitely want to. Some of the Mosques do not require this, but it is a sign of respect and it is better to be safe than sorry.
Casual wear, such as exploring the Pyramids, museums, or riding a camel:
- For Women: Loose floor length pants and a loose fitting, either mid-way or long sleeve shirt will be the preferable attire. In some areas that are more westernized, such as Dubai, you can be ok wearing loose capris. For footwear, a sandal with good support and grip.
- The linen pants and capris were bought at Old Navy, you can buy them here (pants) and here (capris). They are extremely comfortable and lightweight.
- The shirts were bought at GAP, you can buy them here. They are airy and comfortable.
- The sandals were bought at Skechers, you can buy them here. The style is ‘reggae-kooky’. They provided great support with all of the walking we did and were quite comfortable and durable.
- For Men: Loose floor length pants or shorts and a loose fitting shirt. It is not considered offensive if it is short sleeved, but to be protected from the sun, it may be better to be mid-way or long sleeved. For footwear, a sandal with good support and grip.
- The pants were bought at REI, you can buy them here. The classic Sahara convertible pants are dual-purpose pants that turn into shorts with just a zip! They are also made from quick drying material.
- The short sleeved shirt was bought at REI, you can buy it here. Made from polyester, they are quick to dry. The long sleeved shirts were bought at Eddie Bauer, you can buy them here.
- The sandals were bought at Skechers, the exact style seems to be no longer available, but they are very similar to the ones Sierra was wearing.
Nicer event, such as a dinner cruise on the Nile:
- For Women: A loose fitting, floor length skirt and a loose mid-way or long sleeve shirt. For footwear, a closed-toe shoe.
- For Men: Loose floor length pants and a loose fitting shirt. Again, not considered offensive for it to be short sleeved, but it does get chilly on desert nights. For footwear, a closed-toe shoe.
Common Etiquette
- Public affection: This is frowned upon in the Middle East so you will want to save the holding hands/kissing for later. This will definitely warrant some stares of disapproval.
- Taking pictures: Whenever taking pictures of someone, it is always preferable to ask them first.
- Volume of your voice: Be respectful of the Middle Eastern culture and don’t raise your voice as this can be taken as if you are upset about something.
- Hospitality: In some Middle Eastern countries, such as Egypt, it is common for shop owners to offer you a drink when you first step into their store. They have anything ranging from water, tea, soda, etc. It would be wise for you to accept the drink as this practice forms a relationship between yourself and the shop owner. This allows you to barter with the owner on anything that you like from the shop.
- Tipping: In some Middle Eastern countries, such as Egypt, it is incredibly common to tip on any service you are given. Example: The felucca boat captain, bathroom attendant, the person who leads your camel, driver, etc. Many times, they rely heavily on their tips.
- Political Views: Don’t be surprised if you get asked what your views on politics are. But as with any sensitive topic such as this, it is best to display yourself as indifferent so as not to start a conversation that may be considered offensive.
If you follow these rules you should be good to go! Just show respect for the culture and you will be fine. If you have questions along the way, always consult your tour director/guide. It is better to ask than to assume.
