Local Customs & Etiquette in Damascus, Dimashq, Syria
1. Male and Female Greeting Protocols
Understand the subtle difference between handshakes for men and non-verbal greetings for women. This helps to avoid any potential disrespect or misunderstanding.
- Gender Differences: Men shake hands, while women do not touch each other during greeting.
- Intimacy Level: The firmness of the handshake for men signifies friendship and trust level.
- Contextual Greetings: Greeting protocols can vary depending on the situation, like family gatherings or formal meetings.
2. Dining Etiquette
Learn the proper way to use a traditional Syrian water pipe (Arghileh) and to eat with your right hand during mezze feasts.
- Water Pipe Usage: Pass the hose clockwise, and never leave the mouthpiece in your mouth while not smoking.
- Dining with Hands: Use the right hand to eat and avoid touching food with fingers if possible.
- Food Sharing: Food is often shared among guests, so offer some to others when you take from communal dishes.
3. Dress Code
Respect the local culture by wearing modest clothing that covers arms and legs. Women should avoid showing their hair in public.
- Covering Clothing: Men and women should wear long sleeves and full-length trousers or skirts.
- Head Covering: Women should wear a scarf to cover their hair when out in public, especially in mosques and conservative neighborhoods.
- Local Attire: Visiting traditional souks or attending events, consider dressing in Syrian traditional clothing.
4. Arrival and Departure Gifts
Bring small gifts for hosts like chocolates, sweets, or souvenirs from your home country. Upon departure, it's polite to give a small amount of money.
- Gift Selection: Choose items that reflect your culture or hometown.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid religious or political items, as these may be deemed inappropriate.
- Departure Gift Amount: The amount given is usually minimal, but should be commensurate with the length and nature of your stay.
5. Bargaining in Souks
Negotiate prices for goods in traditional markets (Souks) to get the best deal. Be friendly and patient during the negotiation process.
- Price Range: Know the typical price range of the item you want to buy.
- Bargaining Tactics: Offer a lower price first, and then work up from there in small increments.
- Politeness: Be friendly and polite while bargaining, as it's an essential part of the cultural experience.
6. Public Holidays
Respect local customs during public holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These celebrations often involve visiting family, prayer, and special meals.
- Family Visits: Visitors may be invited to join in on holiday meals with local families.
- Public Gatherings: Attend public celebrations and parades, but be mindful of any religious or cultural sensitivities.
- Business Closures: Many businesses and attractions may close during these holidays, so plan accordingly.
7. Photography Etiquette
Ask for permission before taking someone's photo, especially women and children. Respect privacy when photographing inside mosques.
- Permission: Always ask for consent before taking photos of people.
- Religious Sensitivity: Avoid photographing inside mosques without permission, and respect the privacy of worshippers.
- Documenting Cultural Practices: Photograph unique cultural practices and customs to capture the essence of Damascus.
8. Punctuality
Although not strictly enforced, it's expected that you arrive on time for social events and meetings. Being late can cause offense.
- Social Events: Plan to arrive a few minutes early for parties or gatherings.
- Business Meetings: Arriving late to business meetings may be viewed as disrespectful.
- Flexibility: Be aware that schedules can be flexible, and expect occasional delays in starting times.
9. Taboo Subjects
Avoid discussing topics like politics, religion, or the Syrian conflict, as these are sensitive subjects.
- Religious Sensitivity: Respect local beliefs and customs when talking about religion.
- Political Awareness: Stay informed on the current political climate in Syria, but avoid discussing controversial topics.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Remain sensitive to the history and ongoing challenges faced by the Syrian people.
10. Smoking Customs
Smoking is common in Syria, especially with traditional water pipes (Arghileh). Be mindful of local smoking etiquette and be considerate of non-smokers.
- Water Pipe Sharing: Sharing a water pipe with others is common but ensure you don't share it with someone who has a cold or respiratory issues.
- Smoking Spaces: Find designated smoking areas in restaurants, cafes, and public spaces to be respectful of non-smokers.
- Passing the Hose: Follow the proper etiquette when passing the hose during water pipe use.
11. Gestures and Body Language
Avoid using the 'OK' sign with your thumb and index finger as it is considered offensive. Instead, use a nod or verbal affirmation.
- Offensive Gestures: The 'OK' gesture is associated with the word for male organ in Arabic.
- Affirmative Responses: A nod or verbal affirmation is considered a polite way to agree.
- Acceptable Gestures: Thumb to forefinger touch and index finger wag are commonly used gestures in Syria.
12. Hospitality and Guest Expectations
Being a guest in Damascus is a privilege, and it's expected that you accept invitations to meals or events with gratitude.
- Gratitude: Express your appreciation for being invited.
- Reciprocity: Offer to return the hospitality when hosting a guest in your home country.
- Respect for Hosts: Follow local customs and etiquette during your visit, as this shows respect for your hosts.
13. Local Festivals and Celebrations
Participate in local festivals and celebrations like the Festival of Forgiveness (Al-Ghadeer), where you can experience traditional music, dance, and food.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Syrian culture by attending local festivals.
- Traditional Performances: Enjoy traditional music, dance, and storytelling performances during these events.
- Food Tasting: Sample local dishes and desserts that are unique to the festival.
14. Gift-Giving Customs
Bring small gifts for hosts like chocolates, sweets, or souvenirs from your home country. Avoid giving white items as they symbolize mourning.
- White Item Avoidance: Avoid gifting white items, as they are associated with mourning in the Syrian culture.
- Gift Selection: Choose gifts that reflect your culture or hometown.
- Gratitude: Accept gifts graciously, and express your gratitude to the giver.
15. Tipping Customs
Tipping is customary in Syria for good service, with 10% being a reasonable amount. Rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also appreciated.
- Reasonable Tipping Amount: A tip of around 10% is considered reasonable.
- Rounding Up the Bill: Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is also appreciated.
- Tipping in Restaurants: Tipping in restaurants is customary, but tipping taxi drivers or hotel staff is optional.