Dining Etiquette in the Middle East - Thanks (In Part) to Wikipedia

By Sumayyah Meehan

April 7, 2010

Dining in the Middle East is pretty much an event of epic proportions with only the finest foods and beverages served to honor guests. However, maneuvering through an entire meal in a culture that is as mysterious as it is rich can be a heart-pounding affair. There are so many considerations regarding etiquette that you must take note of before you even take that first bite! So what’s an iPhone-toting, Facebook-friending, serial Google-r traveler to do? Why turn to Wikipedia of course!

Below is a list of suggestions, some of which are compiled from the popular website on etiquette while dining in the Middle East, along with a few more suggestions from yours truly. What do you think? Does this hit the mark? Are we missing anything? Let us know via the comments below!

1. Beware of Carcass: So you pull up to the home of your Arab host and there is dead animal carcass lying right on the lawn as you prepare to exit your vehicle. Surely, your hosts have not changed their mind about feeding you? What other reason would they have for scaring the “bejeezes” out of you before you even set foot inside? Rest easy – the reason for the cadaver is to show guests that an animal was freshly slaughtered to provide the freshest of meat for dinner. So don’t turn your nose up, just step over the four-legged corpse if necessary.

2. Chivalry is Not Dead: Depending on the religious nature of your host, men and women may be segregated at different dining areas. However, for guys, if you find yourself sitting at a ‘mixed’ table, take care not to address the female family members of the household directly as that could cause your host to start throwing cutlery at you. It is considered extremely rude and crossing the lines of good manners.

3. Sharing is Caring: Don’t expect a full dinner service unless your Arab host is especially westernized. In fact, you may not even find yourself sitting at a table but rather at a large mat situated on the floor. In most Arab homes, the main course is typically a huge platter of rice and meat. And the entire dinner party eats from the same solitary platter. Spoons and forks are rarely used, as eating by hand is favored most.

4. “Hand”-le with Care: Before you dig in, you should realize that the right hand is favored for eating, which is in accordance with Islam. To use the left hand, which is reserved for bodily hygiene, for eating would totally put your hosts off and might completely gross them out.

5. Finger-lickin’ Good: Since rice, which is often served with savory gravy, is not your typical mess-free finger food you should expect to get a little sloppy while eating. So tuck that napkin into your collar or risk gravy stains on your shirt. Napkins are not always available when eating in an Arab home. Sucking your fingers off, one by one, is the norm when they get too goopy.

6. Just Say No: Once you’ve had your fill, it’s acceptable to push your plate a couple inches away. However, in the absence of a plate, it can be difficult to let your host know that you’ve had enough. Traditionally, your host will coax you into eating more food as a sign of hospitality. You might end up having to refuse him thrice before he relents. Politely refuse and by no means loosen your belt at the table!

7. Chug! Just Coffee Though: Directly following the meal, dessert and Arabic coffee is served. Now Arabic coffee can be extremely strong and bitter. It is often served without sugar. So it’s a good idea to eat the sweet dessert first and chug the Arabic coffee in one gulp, which is easy since it is served in a tiny mug.

8. No Face Time Needed: Once your meal is in your belly, there really is no room for dilly-dallying. Hosts often want their guests to make a quick exit as the night is reserved for family time and not necessarily entertaining guests. So be sure not to linger and overstay your welcome or you might not be invited back!

9. Say Thank You: Don’t forget the basics. Last, but not least, Arab hosts like any other hosts expect praise for a meal well served. So be extra gratuitous and thank your guest profusely as you beat feet to the front door. Watch your step, however, because the carcass might still be there.

Source: Wikipedia