Etiquette and Behavior in Jeddah

Jeddah is the second largest city in Saudi Arabia. Located on the coast of the Red Sea, Jeddah is considered as the commercial capita of Saudi Arabia. It is the wealthiest city not only in Saudi Arabia but the entire Middle East and western Asia. Jeddah serves as the principle gateway to Mecca- the holiest city of the Muslims. Etiquette and Behavior in Jeddah and Saudi Arabia as a whole is quite stringent. Etiquette is the code of conduct that governs the social behavior of an individual. Etiquettes are not always explicit but most of the times they are implied.

Etiquette and Behavior in Jeddah lays down several restrictions between the genders. That men and women seldom interact beyond the ambit of household is regulated by the etiquette and behavior in Jeddah. Men and female interaction is strictly official, in the commercial sector. The elders command strict deference in the society. Social interactions are generally gender and age specific. When a person visits a household a common etiquette and behavior in Jeddah is to greet individually the host and all the others present. Greetings are generally exchanged by shaking hands. If the parties involved are well known to one another and of the same age group then the protocol is to kiss thrice or more on the cheeks. The individual being greeted must stand. The guest must be offered refreshments like tea and coffee. Failure to observe these conventions are deemed as rude behavior.

Physical proximity during social interaction is another convention. People generally walk arm-in-arm or hold hands, especially among the same gender. Etiquette and Behavior at Jeddah requires people to avoid direct eye contact with passers-by. Gazing and especially staring at strangers is deemed a belligerent behavior. Etiquette and Behavior of Jeddah states that one must proclaim in Arabic- "Peace be upon you" on meeting a stranger or an acquaintance. To this the stranger should reply "And upon you peace."