Local Customs & Etiquette in Dhaka, Bangladesh
1. Greetings
When meeting someone in Dhaka, use the right hand for shaking hands as a mark of respect. Greeting with "Assalam-u-Alaikum" (Peace be upon you) is considered polite.
- Right Hand: Always use the right hand and avoid the left for shaking hands or giving gifts.
- Respectful Language: Use common greetings like "Assalam-u-Alaikum" to show respect.
- Personal Space: Keep a respectful distance, as close proximity may be uncomfortable.
2. Dress Code
Dress modestly, as Dhaka is predominantly conservative. Men usually wear shirts and trousers, while women wear saris or salwar kameez.
- Modesty: Dress conservatively to respect local customs.
- Heat Consideration: Choose breathable fabrics in light colors suitable for hot weather.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing.
3. Eating Practices
Use your right hand for eating, as the left is considered unclean. It's common to use fingers instead of cutlery.
- Right-Hand Use: Always use the right hand for eating.
- Finger Use: It is acceptable to eat with clean fingers.
- Sharing: Dishes are often communal, with everyone eating from a large plate.
4. Visiting Homes
When entering a home in Dhaka, remove your shoes at the doorstep. It's a sign of respect for the household.
- Shoe Removal: Always remove shoes before entering.
- Gifts: Bringing a small gift for the host is considered courteous.
- Punctuality: Arriving on time shows respect for your hosts.
5. Mosque Etiquette
When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes. Women may need to cover their heads.
- Dress Appropriately: Ensure clothing is modest and covers shoulders and knees.
- Shoe Removal: Leave your shoes outside before entering.
- Headwear: Women should carry a scarf for covering heads.
6. Public Displays of Affection
Such displays are uncommon and often frowned upon in Dhaka. It is advisable to avoid holding hands or hugging in public.
- Respectful Distance: Maintain a respectful distance in public.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid actions that may be considered indecent.
- Social Norms: Awareness of local behavior can prevent misunderstandings.
7. Bargaining
Bargaining in markets is common and expected. Start by offering a lower price and negotiate politely.
- Bargaining Skills: Practice effective negotiation.
- Humor: Use humor to make bargaining enjoyable.
- Starter Price: Begin with a price lower than you're willing to pay.
8. Traffic Sense
Dhaka's traffic is chaotic, with vehicles, rickshaws, and pedestrians sharing the road. Be cautious when crossing streets.
- Awareness: Stay alert to your surroundings.
- Patience: Expect delays and plan extra travel time.
- Safety: Use established pedestrian crossings if available.
9. Gender Roles
Men and women aren't often seen socializing together in public. Interactions are often gender-segregated.
- Social Groups: Respect gender-specific groups and gatherings.
- Professional Interactions: Keep interactions respectful and formal.
- Acknowledgment: Acknowledge the presence of both genders respectfully.
10. Photography
Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Some locations may prohibit photography.
- Permission: Always seek permission for personal photos.
- Restricted Areas: Be aware of prohibited zones for photography.
- Sensitivity: Be sensitive to people's privacy and customs.
11. Language
While Bengali is the dominant language, English is commonly understood in urban areas. Knowing a few basic Bengali phrases can be helpful.
- Key Phrases: Learn basic Bengali greetings and phrases.
- Language Diversity: Be mindful of language barriers outside urban centers.
- Literacy: Understand that literacy rates may vary; speak clearly.
12. Dining Etiquette
Meals are often served on the floor at low tables. Wait for the host to start eating first.
- Sitting Arrangement: Be comfortable eating at low tables.
- Host Lead: Let hosts begin the meal.
- Portion Control: Serve yourself modest portions and accept refills if offered.
13. Religious Sensitivities
Dhaka is predominantly Muslim, with prayer times observed devoutly. Be quiet during call-to-prayer times.
- Respect Prayer: Be respectful and quiet during prayers.
- Awareness of Practice: Familiarize yourself with local religious customs.
- Mosque Proximity: Be aware of mosques in your vicinity for prayer times.
14. Personal Questions
It is common to ask personal questions, such as about family, as a form of politeness.
- Polite Inquiry: Respond kindly to personal questions.
- Limitations: Share personal information comfortably limited.
- Engagement: Show interest in similar topics about the querent.
15. Shopping Customs
Visiting local markets is common, with lively bargaining. Markets may have individual closing times on religious days.
- Market Days: Be aware of when markets are open, especially during Ramadan.
- Negotiation: Expect and practice bargaining with vendors.
- Market Knowledge: Familiarize with local produce and specialties.
16. Queueing
In busy areas, queuing is not always followed rigorously. Stay calm and assertive if someone skips you in line.
- Patience: Maintain calmness in busy queues.
- Assertiveness: Politely assert yourself when necessary.
- Queue Awareness: Recognize informal lines and system.
17. Gift Giving
Giving gifts is welcomed, especially when visiting homes. Avoid alcohol and pork products as gifts.
- Appropriate Gifts: Choose gifts that align with the local culture.
- Packaging: Wrap gifts nicely as part of the gesture.
- Formal Occasions: Reserve gift giving for special occasions and visits.
18. Public Transport
Buses and rickshaws are popular but can be crowded. Women typically sit in separate sections on buses.
- Seat Awareness: Respect gender-designated seating.
- Crowded Conditions: Be prepared for crowded spaces and time it takes to travel.
- Fare Negotiation: Agree on rickshaw fares before the journey.
19. Queer Community
The LGBT+ community faces challenges, and public displays are modest due to societal norms.
- Discretion: Practice discretion in public displays of affection or identity.
- Community Space: Attend gay-friendly spaces with safety in mind.
- Local Sensitivity: Understand the cultural context towards gender and sexual identity.
20. Interaction with Elders
Showing respect to elders is paramount. Use titles such as "Uncle" or "Auntie," even for non-relatives.
- Titles: Use respectful terms when addressing elders.
- Hierarchical Respect: Always show extra courtesy.
- Interpersonal Language: Use polite language in conversation with elders.