What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Jubail?
We asked people in Jubail if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Jubail, it is considered disrespectful to show the soles of your feet or shoes, as they are considered dirty. Avoid using your left hand for eating, greeting, or giving and receiving items, as it is considered unclean in the Arab culture. Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon in Saudi Arabia, so it's best to avoid these in Jubail. It is considered rude to refuse an offer of Arabic coffee (gahwa) or dates, which are traditional signs of hospitality. Women should dress modestly in public, covering their shoulders, arms and legs, and wearing a headscarf. Men should avoid wearing shorts in public, as it is considered disrespectful. It is considered impolite to ask about a Saudi woman unless she is a close family member. Avoid discussing politics and religion, as these topics can be sensitive in Saudi Arabia. During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is considered disrespectful. Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially of people, as it is considered intrusive. Avoid making negative comments about the Saudi royal family, as this is considered disrespectful. It is considered rude to turn down an invitation to a Saudi home. Remember to respect the call to prayer, which happens five times a day. Non-Muslims are not expected to pray, but they should stop what they are doing and remain quiet. Alcohol is strictly forbidden in Saudi Arabia, so do not bring any into the country or ask for it. Pork is also forbidden in Saudi Arabia, so avoid asking for it or bringing it into the country. It is considered disrespectful to walk in front of someone who is praying. Avoid using offensive language or making obscene gestures, as these are considered highly disrespectful," said a member in Jubail, Saudi Arabia.
Connect
Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Jubail?
- What do I need to know before moving to Jubail?
- How do I find a place to live in Jubail?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Jubail?
- What is the average cost of housing in Jubail?
- How do I meet people in Jubail?
- What should I pack when moving to Jubail?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Jubail?
- Will I be able to find a job in Jubail?
- What is life like in Jubail?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Jubail?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Jubail?
- What is the social scene like in Jubail?
- What advice to expats in Jubail have about housing?
- What are medical services in Jubail like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Jubail?
- Is the cost of living in Jubail high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Jubail?
- Why do people move to Jubail?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Jubail?
If you live in Jubail, newcomers to Jubail would love to hear your answer to this question.