Local Customs & Etiquette in Aleppo, Ḩalab, Syria

All Topics about Aleppo All Cities in Syria

1. Hospitality in Aleppo

Aleppan hospitality is deeply rooted; guests are treated like family. Be prepared for endless offers of tea and food.

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary when greeting someone. Women usually greet each other with a light touch on the forearm.

Respectful Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact shows respect during greetings.
Appropriate Touch: Avoid overly friendly or inappropriate physical contact with the opposite gender.
Use Titles Correctly: Address people using their correct titles based on age, profession, and relationship.

Eating with the right hand is common in traditional settings. Wait for the host to begin eating before starting yourself.

Respect Tradition: Follow local customs when dining to show respect.
Use Appropriate Utensils: Switch to using a fork and knife when they are provided.
Avoid Leaving Food: It is considered disrespectful to leave food on your plate.

Bargaining is expected and an integral part of shopping in Aleppo's souks. Start by offering a lower price than your desired final price.

Be Polite but Firm: Maintain a friendly demeanor while negotiating.
Know the Base Price: Research prices beforehand to determine a reasonable starting point for negotiations.
Avoid Offending: Refrain from being overly aggressive during negotiations to avoid offending the vendor.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing and respect local traditions.

Cover Arms and Legs: Wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts to cover your arms and legs.
Avoid Revealing Clothing: Opt for loose, non-revealing clothing to respect local customs.
Respect Cultural Values: Dress conservatively to show understanding and appreciation for the local culture.

Removing shoes before entering a home is customary. Offer to help with preparations if asked.

Respect Cleanliness: Remove your shoes upon entering someone's home.
Be Prepared to Help: Offer assistance if asked, as this shows respect and appreciation.
Avoid Criticism: Compliment the host's home rather than pointing out any perceived flaws.

Tips are appreciated but not always expected. Round up the bill or give a small amount depending on service quality.

Service Quality: Adjust your tip based on the level of service received.
Currency Used: Make sure to use local currency when tipping.
Appreciation for Service: Tips can show appreciation for good service and are a way of supporting the local economy.

Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Respect religious sensitivities when photographing sites.

Respect Privacy: Always ask for permission before taking someone's photo.
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Respect local customs and avoid photographing religious sites without permission.
Understand Cultural Differences: Be aware that some people may be uncomfortable being photographed, especially women.

Women should wear a headscarf and long sleeves when visiting mosques. Men should also cover their arms and legs.

Respect Religious Sensitivities: Dress appropriately to show respect for the mosque and its visitors.
Bring a Headscarf: Women should have a headscarf available when visiting a mosque.
Follow the Lead of Locals: Observe how locals dress and follow their example when visiting a mosque.

Public displays of affection are discouraged. Respect local customs by maintaining appropriate boundaries.

Respect Local Norms: Avoid public displays of affection to respect local customs.
Maintain Distance: Keep a comfortable distance from locals when interacting in public spaces.
Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and adjust your behavior accordingly.

Punctuality is appreciated. Dress conservatively for business meetings.

Be Punctual: Arrive on time or slightly early to business meetings.
Dress Conservatively: Opt for conservative attire when attending a business meeting.
Show Respect: Address your counterpart using their title and last name until told otherwise.

Tea houses are social hubs where men gather to discuss news and play games. Women may visit with female relatives.

Respect Gender Roles: Men and women typically socialize in separate tea houses.
Order Traditional Tea: Try the local version of black tea known as 'Sahlab' or green apple tea.
Engage in Conversation: Join in discussions on topics like local news and politics, but avoid controversial subjects.

During festivals, it's important to respect local traditions and customs. Dress modestly and avoid disruptive behavior.

Respect Local Traditions: Understand and follow the specific traditions associated with each festival.
Dress Conservatively: Dress modestly to show respect during festivals.
Avoid Disruptions: Respect the solemnity of religious festivals and avoid any behavior that could be perceived as disrespectful or disruptive.

Weddings are significant events where guests should dress conservatively. Gifts are appreciated, but avoid gold or jewelry.

Dress Conservatively: Men should wear suits and ties, while women should opt for modest, long gowns.
Bring a Gift: A small gift is customary but avoid giving gold or jewelry.
Respect Cultural Values: Understand and respect the cultural significance of Aleppan weddings.

Funerals are a time for mourning. Dress modestly and avoid loud or boisterous behavior.

Dress Modestly: Wear conservative clothing to show respect during funerals.
Avoid Boisterous Behavior: Maintain a somber demeanor and avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Respect Local Customs: Follow local customs, such as offering condolences to the family.