Local Customs & Etiquette in Homs, Syria

1. Al-Khalediyah Mosque Etiquette

Respect the mosque's sanctity by dressing modestly and removing shoes. Women should cover their hair.

Modesty: Covering up is a sign of respect towards religious beliefs.
Respect for Religious Sites: Removing shoes is customary in many Muslim countries, not just Syria.
Women's Attire: Female visitors should wear a headscarf or dress modestly.

Negotiate prices at local markets but be fair and respectful to shopkeepers.

Price Negotiation: Bargaining is common in Middle Eastern markets, but don't be too aggressive.
Respect for Shopkeepers: Acknowledge the effort and skill that goes into creating each item.
Fairness: Keep in mind that shopkeepers need to make a living, so don't offer too low a price.

Respect the historic significance of the dam and its surroundings by following guidelines.

Historic Significance: The dam is one of the largest in the world, with a rich history and engineering feat.
Environmental Protection: Avoid littering or damaging the natural environment around the dam.
Safety: Follow safety guidelines to ensure a pleasant and safe experience for all visitors.

Greet locals with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Use titles for elders or people of high status.

Formality: Arab culture places emphasis on respect and deference towards elders.
Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact shows confidence and interest during a conversation.
Handshake: A firm handshake signifies strength and trustworthiness.

Accept invitations graciously and bring a small gift when visiting a Syrian home.

Gracious Acceptance: Saying 'yes' with enthusiasm shows that you appreciate the invitation.
Gift-Giving: A small gift, like sweets or flowers, is a thoughtful gesture for your host.
Reciprocity: If you are invited to someone's home, plan on hosting them in return.

Eat with your right hand if using traditional dishes and accept food with both hands.

Right Hand Usage: Using your left hand may be considered disrespectful in some Muslim countries.
Politeness: Accept food with both hands to show gratitude for the offering.
Patience: Eating slowly and savoring each dish is a sign of respect in Syrian culture.

Expect warm hospitality from locals, who often go out of their way to help visitors.

Warmth: Syrians are known for their kindness and welcoming nature.
Cultural Exchange: Engaging with locals can provide a unique cultural experience.
Community Spirit: Sharing food and stories is an integral part of Syrian culture.

Offered as a gesture of hospitality, always accept tea politely.

Significance: Tea is an essential part of Syrian culture and social gatherings.
Politeness: Refusing tea may offend your host, so always accept graciously.
Social Interaction: Tea time is an opportunity to engage in conversation with locals.

Respect the holy month of Ramadan by abstaining from eating, drinking, and smoking during daylight hours.

Religious Observance: Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection and self-discipline.
Respect for Locals: Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day.
Understanding: Learn about the customs and traditions of Ramadan to show respect for local culture.

Gifts are given on special occasions like weddings or holidays. Choose gifts that are meaningful and thoughtful.

Special Occasions: Gift-giving is an important tradition for celebrating life's milestones.
Thoughtfulness: Choose a gift that reflects the recipient's interests or needs.
Presentation: Wrap gifts attractively and include a personal note to show your thoughtfulness.

Respect traditional gender roles by deferring to elders and men in most situations.

Traditional Roles: Syrian culture has strong familial and societal norms.
Respect for Elders: Deferring to elders shows respect and acknowledges their experience.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understand that gender roles may differ from your own cultural norms.

Family is at the core of Syrian culture, so be respectful and patient when interacting with locals.

Importance of Family: Syrians prioritize family above all else.
Respectful Interaction: Ask permission before taking photographs or interacting with children.
Patience: Understand that Syrians may take time to build relationships.

Avoid public displays of affection and dress modestly in conservative areas.

Respect for Culture: Public displays of affection may be seen as inappropriate in Arab culture.
Modesty: Dressing modestly is a sign of respect for local customs and beliefs.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understand that cultural norms may differ from your own.

Wait for the host to invite you to open gifts and avoid opening them immediately.

Patience: Avoid opening gifts immediately to show respect for your host.
Courtesy: Thank the giver of the gift graciously before opening it.
Appreciation: Show appreciation for the thought and effort put into selecting the gift.

Build relationships before discussing business, as Syrians value personal connections.

Personal Connections: Relationship-building is essential in the Syrian business world.
Patience: Be patient and persistent when building business relationships.
Respect: Address elders or people of high status with appropriate titles to show respect.